Daniel Robert Laurin, born August 14, 1954, played his last drum roll August 1, 2026, at home in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He is leaving behind a legacy of laughter, rhythm, hard work, and a life lived with spirit. Dan was the youngest of five children born to Vic & Neta Laurin.
Dan was a proud son, brother, father, uncle, and friend. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Jesse (Cassandra), Sasha (Max) their mother Henny, as well as his sister, Marcia Laurin, brother, Victor, and many nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward with affection.
He was predeceased by his father, Victor Arthur, his mother, Neta, his brothers Ken and Harvey, his brother-in-law Paul Gravelle, and extended family members.
Early years on Paquette Rd, were spent in the bush gathering critters that sometimes showed up in his Mom’s bathtub, and hanging out with the Jumbo Gardens crew and lifelong friend Roger. After high school he chased his musical dream of being a drummer joining Harbinger (1982), Martyrs of Melody (first album released in 1998, second in 2001) and DeciBel (2006) all in Southern Ontario. He toured extensively.
Dan met life with a determined spirit, whether working up north with his brothers in LTL as a heavy equipment operator or dealing with debilitating illnesses. Moving home in 2017, he was able to reconnect with buddies, in jamming sessions or playing drums with them in various venues. Those who heard him play, will remember the beat he brought to every performance especially Rob, Shawn, Joe, Chris, Kelly, and Jamie to name a few. At home, he especially loved the dinners he shared with his sister, often teasing about her phone use.
Dan loved motorcycle riding, playing pool and having coffee with friends. His favourite Harley Davidson was his last one, a Dyna Streetbob. The best rides were Friday, when the Sons of Arthritis got together with President Dan, Vice President Erv, Sergeant at Arms Roger, and the newest member Mark. They’d go for a 200km ride and end up at the Stanley for some refreshments, wash down the dust and play a little pool. He was also a member of the Three Shirt Gang.
Dan’s children were his greatest source of pride. They remember and cherish weekends packed full of activities, from playing with plasticine, going to sports world, to watching them swim and going to Blockbuster Video for the newest games and videos. He always had a big smile on his face, and everyone was always laughing at his jokes. He was a gifted drummer and musician, kind and generous beyond his means. His wit was sharp as a tack and there wasn’t anyone he couldn’t make laugh. He shared his birthday with his daughter, Sasha, whom he loved beyond measure. He was so proud of his son Jesse and told him to hug Cassandra tight.
Many friends will miss his online chats about Zeppelin, Jeff Beck and everything musical.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 30, 2026, at 11:30am at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 (229 Van Norman St). May he be remembered with gratitude and honoured by sharing humour and kindness every day with people you meet and those you love.
Dan was ‘one heck of a guy’
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
