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Daniela Driedger

Image by Nick Andréka

DANIELA DRIEDGER

April 20, 1956 – December 18, 2020

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Daniela on Friday, December 18, 2020. Daniela lost her short battle with cancer and passed away at St. Boniface Hospital with her husband Harvey and children Rachel and Colin by her side. Dani was the best mom, wife, and sister and will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who are all still shocked by the speed and aggressiveness of her disease. 

 

Dani is survived by Harvey, her loving husband of 37 years; daughter Rachel and son Colin; siblings Frank (Elsie) and Ivan (Ginny); and extended family and friends. 

 

Daniela was born in Arzignano, Italy and immigrated to Canada with her family in 1957. Her family settled in Winnipeg and Dani graduated from St. John’s High School in 1975. She stayed in close contact with many of her high school friends. Dani and Harvey met in 1981 and married on July 23, 1983 at Norwood United Church in Winnipeg. They added to their family in 1987 with the birth of their daughter Rachel and again in 1991 with the birth of their son Colin. Shortly after Colin was born, the Driedgers settled into their new home on McMurray Bay, where they were surrounded by neighbours who felt more like extended family.  

 

Dani loved to travel, whether it was to Texas, where she and Harvey escaped the cold winter weather at the Alamo Palms Resort, hot holidays in Mexico or the Dominican Republic, visiting family in Italy, or riding on the back of Harvey’s Harley-Davidson travelling around Canada and the United States. The family spent most of their summers in the 90s and early 2000s vacationing in Lake of the Woods, Ontario, cruising in their boat, having dock parties, and enjoying time with friends.  

 

Dani was a beautiful person inside and out and was the light of any room she walked into. She was always a source of love and support for anyone in her life who needed it. She would often have long talks on the phone with friends who needed someone to confide in. Dani’s passing leaves a huge void in the lives of her family members and in the lives of the friends she chose as her family. This void will never be filled.  

 

A celebration of Daniela’s life will take place at a later date, once all those who loved her can safely gather. 

 

Daniela’s family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by watching the photo-biography above. They also encourage the sharing of photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to CancerCare Manitoba in Daniela’s honour

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Jeff and Sandra Delavau

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

We’re so sorry and shocked to hear of Dani’s passing. We first met Dani and Harv when Jeff was Colin’s volleyball coach in junior high. Our son Derek and Colin played volleyball together from junior high through high school and we spent a lot of time together in the bleachers at games and tournaments.  We enjoyed her sense of humour and her easygoing manner.  She was a wonderful fun-loving person who clearly loved her husband and children.  Our sincere condolences to Harv, Colin and Rachel. We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Sandra and Jeff Delavau

Brian & Grace Loewen

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

So very sorry for your loss!  Got to know Dani in Texas. What pleasant lady with an infectious smile!  Heartfelt thoughts and prayers for you all!

Phil & Val Saltel

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss.  Our condolences to you and your family.

Morrie

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

We are very sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.  To you and your family we send our sincere condolences.   Rob & Morrie Somerville

Irene janz

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I am so sorry Harv , Colin and Rachel beautiful tribute to a beautiful person..I will always remember her ..she was also fun to be with and I will miss her terrible,our condolences .far to young ... ❤️❤️❤️

Karen Carrurhers

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

There are no words to express the loss of a cherished friend, confidant, ray of sunshine, ball of fun. She was honest, loyal and kind to the core. She was like my shadow, my second skin, she was myDani. My heart is aching and I will miss her forever.  I hope the wonderful memories bring some comfort to Harvey, Rachael and Colin who she adored. I know she will be missed by her grand-dogs Charlie and Toby too. I know the angels  have found a great new friend! 

Robin Carruthers

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Well done obituary guys. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Doris

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Harvey, Rachel & Colin. Our sincere condolences. Dani and I bonded from her first day working at FRC. Her spunk, easygoing, loyalty, always able to read my mind strengthened our friendship throughout the years. She was my beautiful friend and will be missed, Texas evening walks are cherished memories.  Doris & Ted Thorimbert 

Nikki carruthers

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I miss you so much, Dani. It’s already weird knowing you’re never gonna bring Charlie or Toby in for their grooms or a quick nail trim, or just to pick them up and say hello. I truly feel am empty void, like I lost an honorary parent with your passing, nobody will ever fill that special place. You knew every single thing about my life, each and every breakup, all the times I’d been in trouble at school, all my accomplishments, graduations, and were there to cheer me on through it all. There are no words to express the loss this world has felt without you in it. You were selfless, put everyone else first, there is nobody like our dani. We miss you so, unbearably much

Gloria Fillion

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Dani was a beautiful person and We  loved spending time  with her and Harv in Texas.  She talked about her kids with a huge smile.  So sorry for your loss.  Prayers and thoughts.  Claude and Gloria Fillion.

Annette

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Condolences to Harvey, Rachel and Colin. We got to know Dani in Texas. We found her beautiful (inside and out).  She was warm, sociable, classy and just fun to be around. She will be missed.  Rene and Annette Chabidon 

Tanja Lopes

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Dear Rachel, My deepest condolences to you, Colin and your dad. Over the years I’ve heard so many stories of your mom that she grew close to my heart too. She was a wonderful woman and a loving mom. I know that nothing will ever fill the void in your heart, but memories of your mom will live forever, for you and others. 

Andrée-Anne Boisvert

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Dani treated me as her daughter and always welcomed me into her home with a hug and a meal. I will remember her as a beautiful, kind, funny, and fun-loving person. She was far too young and full of life to go so soon. I will honour her memory by never taking life for granted and by cherishing those I love. To Harvey, Rachel, and Colin, I send my love and support. 

Diane Nimik

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Thank you Dani for being a shoulder and for the many laughs ......the surprise visits bring a smile to my face. I will cherish those memories but still wanted to make more. Safe travel my friend to the other side and now no more pain. Love forever an old friend.....Diane Nimik

Lynne McKenzie

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

My sincere thoughts are with you Rachel..your Father..and Colin. Your tribute page told the story of your mother that brought tears to my eyes...cherish the memories  they are yours to hold...sincerely Lynne McKenzie (Sawchuk)

Michelle P

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I offer my heartfelt condolences to Rachel and your family. Dani was always there to help, including myself, a friend of her daughters. I will never forget her voice. The world has lost a great women and a remarkable  mother.

Krysta

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

What a beautiful photo-biography to capture the wonderful memories of an amazing woman. Rachel, any time that I was in town and stayed at your parents house, your mom was always so kind to me. She was an incredibly kind and loving woman. My thoughts are with your family. 

Elaine Gardiner

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I am so very sorry to hear of your mom’s passing Rachel. I remember her from when you & Heather went to school together. My thoughts are with you and your family.  

Ryan

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

That was an amazing video tribute for a wonderful person.  She will be deeply missed!!!

Deb Akister

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of Dani's passing.  She was a lovely woman with a warm and generous heart.  My deepest condolences to Harvey and the rest of the family.

Dave and Cor Hildebrand

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

So sorry for your loss , thinking of you in this difficult time Cor and Dave

Whitney Jones

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I was so sad to learn about Dani’s passing. I worked with her at FRC and my mom knew her as well. I would often stop in the office and chat with her about her kids and grand dogs. She was so proud of all them. My heart to the family through this hard time, I can’t imagine.  You will be missed Dani. ❤

Terry Galley

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I first met Dani when we worked at Arthur Andersen in the 70’s then reconnected when her family moved next door to Cassin’s .  Dani wanted to work for the school division I worked for so it happened .  Even managed a lunch & dinner in Texas, it won’t be the same without her bubbly laugh. My condolences to u  Terry Galley❤

Ken Cassin

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

The Driedger’s became friends the day they moved next door on McMurray Bay. Always willing to pitch in and help with things, Dani was rarely seen without a smile on her face. And my goodness, the annual visits on Lake of the Woods were welcomed by our extended family. She will be dearly missed. My deepest condolences to Harvey, Rachel, and Colin. 

Lee Deamel

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Dani was a warm and wonderful gal who brought spirit to a conversation. I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to work with her and call her, friend. I will miss her infectious laugh.  Sincerest condolences to the family. Lee Deamel

Carol Peters

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Beautiful photo-biography of Dani! My deepest sympathy goes out to Harvey, Rachel, and Colin! My thoughts and prayers are with you! Carol Peters

Troy Scott

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I worked with Dani for over a decade at FRC. She helped guide me through my transition from teacher, to vice-principal, to principal and I will always cherish the support and the laughs we shared together.  An amazing person, colleague that always brightened up people’s day with her smile and laughter.  My heartfelt condolences to the Driedger family during this difficult time. 

Daryl Wiebe

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

I had the privilege of working with Dani on the staff of Fort Richmond Collegiate for a number of years. She always brightened up my day when I would drop into the office! They say that people don't remember what you say-but only how you make them feel. Well Dani always made others feel wonderful, worthy and special. She was light and joy and love all wrapped up in one beautiful and cherished person. Deepest sympathy to family and friends.❤

Charlene Hollyoake

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

Dani was a wonderful friend and coworker. I will miss our lunches and walks with her. Our sincere condolences to Harvey, Rachel, and Colin.  Charlene and Doug Hollyoake

Lorna Putschker

September 25, 2024 at 7:33 PM

My condolences to the family. I only knew her breifly when our kids were in school together, but I remember Dani as a very thoughtful caring person.  Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Lorna Putschker and family.

Julie Peterson

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Beautiful woman!! 😘

Julie Peterson

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Good times with Dani!! 

Julie Peterson

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Todd and I met Dani and Harv in Alamo,Tx. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. Great friend to visit with about everything and anything.  We are gonna miss her alot. Had alot of fun and many of laughs. She's an angel looking down at all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with Harv and kids through this most difficult time.  Love Todd & Jules Ashley and Sophie  From Iowa

Julie Peterson

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Great memories

Karen and Wes Friesen

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Dani was one of the best!  We laughed, we cried, we vented, we walked... and we performed for students!  Dani always brought the fun to our staff Christmas concert! .Dani’s way of caring and sharing made her a great friend and co-worker!  Our heartfelt condolences to Harv, Rachel and Colin!  We will miss you Dani! 

Marina Gobbo

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Ciao mia carissima cugina Daniela siamo rami dello stesso albero, ti porterò sempre nel cuore ciao Marina

Elaine & Louis

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Harvey and family, we are so saddened to hear about Dani. We will always have such fond memories of all the great times we spent together. Our deepest sympathies to all of you. Elaine & Louis

Joyce Lee and Rolly Perron

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

Dani was always ready for an adventure when we said “pack a toothbrush” on our motorcycle trips. Most of the time, we had no idea where we would end up but we always had a fantastic time. We were so fortunate to have so many happy memories of her. 
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