Obituary of Dan Roode
Daniel "Dan" Roode, a beloved husband, father and pillar of the community, passed away on February 15, 2024, at 58 years old, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Born May 1, 1965, he was a proud Métis raised in Prince Albert, SK. on Treaty 6 territory; homeland of the Metis, Dan exemplified the spirit of generosity and compassion throughout his life.
As a boy scout, Dan and his siblings traversed from sea to sea, gaining a deep appreciation for the diverse beauty of his homeland.
In 1989, Dan met the love of his life, Chris, and together they embarked on a journey of 33 years filled with love, laughter and shared dreams. Their bond only strengthened over the years as they built a life centered around their family, farming and community.
Dan dedicated 15 years of his life in service to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, where they were stationed in Rae Edzo, NWT, Fort Smith, NWT, and Morinville, AB before retiring. In 2006, he embarked on a new chapter, moving to St Denis, SK, where he embraced the farming life with his family and built a beautiful home. His commitment to his community shone through his active involvement and willingness to lend a helping hand wherever needed.
Dan worked at home as a mixed farmer and was actively involved in grain farming with the Labrecque family, whom he considered an extended family. The strong bond he shared with the Labrecque family went beyond the fields and added a deeper sense of community to his life. Together, they worked the land, shared the joys and challenges of farming, and created lasting memories that further enriched Dan's connection to the agricultural way of life. The Labrecque family held a special place in his heart, and their collaborative efforts reflected the true spirit of unity and shared values within the farming community.
In 1990 at their first posting in Rae Edzo NWT, Dan and Chris met a young 12 year old Jane Lafferty who instantly became like a daughter to them. In 1992, Dan and Chris welcomed their first daughter, Hailee, into the world, followed by the arrival of their second daughter, Mackenzie, in 1994. Dan was a devoted father, finding immense joy in watching his daughters grow and flourish into remarkable young women.
Dan supported his wife Chris's passion for horses. He always helped get the truck fueled, horse trailer hooked up and checked over before Chris left the farm to go on adventures.
Dan was a proud supporter of his nephews, Tre and Tatum's hockey careers. He took great pride in their achievements and celebrated every success with unwavering support and love.
Family was at the core of Dan's being, and his love for them knew no bounds. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, traveling to Prince Albert for family celebrations and finding joy in simple pleasures and creating lasting memories. His affinity for animals was evident to all who knew him, as he had a special connection with every creature he encountered.
In addition to being a devoted husband, father, and community member, Dan's legacy includes over 210 blood donations, embodying his selflessness and commitment to helping others. Moreover, his endearing ritual of phoning his dad every evening at 9 p.m. reflects the depth of his love and gratitude for familial bonds. Dan's remarkable contributions and heartfelt gestures will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched.
Outside of family and farm life, Dan studied Jin Shin Jyutsu, an ancient practice of harmonizing the body’s energy system. He embraced its principles wholeheartedly, finding peace and balance through its teachings and enjoyed his community of Jin Shin Jyutsu friends.
Dan will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of humour, kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
Dan will be lovingly remembered by his wife Christina Vandale; daughters, Hailee (Justin Thurstan) of Saskatoon, Mackenzie (Sheldon Dame) of Prince George and adopted daughter Jane Lafferty of Saskatoon, SK. He will also be fondly remembered by his siblings, Dirk, Doris (Bob) Sterling, Lorne (Christine) and Kelly. Dan was a favourite uncle too many nieces and nephews. He was met in heaven by parents, Ken and Lynn Roode; and sister, Laura.
A celebration of Dan's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 29th, 2024, at Cathedral of the Holy Family in the hall(123 Nelson Rd, Saskatoon), where friends and family will gather to honour and remember the remarkable man he was. A lunch will follow the service. Interment of ashes will be in Batoche, SK. at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SPCA or Prairie Pooches Dog Rescue, in memory of Dan's passion for animals.
“The Two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” Mark Twain