Daniel "Danny" John Swystun

It is with great sadness that the family of Daniel Swystun announces his passing on December 4th, 2021 in his 71st year, after a brief illness.

Danny was the beloved first-born son of Anne Olivia Neufeld, and the dear brother of Joanne Swystun (Michael Nairne), Richard Swystun (Karen Swystun) and Donna Swystun. Dan was also uncle to James Nairne, John Swystun, Caroline Swystun, Anastasia Nairne, and his namesake - Alexander Daniel Nairne. Dan was predeceased by his father, Vsevolod John Swystun some years ago.

Dan was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba but spent the better part of his life as a resident of the Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) in Portage La Prairie, having suffered a traumatic brain injury at birth. Although this changed the course of his life and what he was able to do with it, Dan showed signs of the many talents that he, in another life, may well have been able to develop further. He loved music – both listening to it and singing. Like his mother and sister Donna, he had a melodic singing voice and could easily carry a tune. When he was in the mood, he liked to crank up the radio and belt out the lines of his favorite songs. He was also very organized, methodical, and likely mechanically inclined, like his brother Richard. He also had a mischievous sense of humour and enjoyed taking part in small practical jokes.

Dan loved being taken out by his family for outings and would get himself ready for family visits hours in advance. When he was younger, he enjoyed family picnics in Island Park in Portage La Prairie. As an adult, he enjoyed driving through Island Park whatever the season, as well as going out for coffee – his favorite beverage.

Dan enjoyed the many activities offered by MDC including singalongs, hayrides, field trips and summer camp. Until he was in his mid-sixties, he worked during the week on light manufacturing jobs and other workshops for Portage La Prairie businesses. During his retirement years, he enjoyed sitting in “his chair” - a comfortable reclining chair that was purchased just for him - and watching the rest of his friends and caretakers in his cottage go about their business.

Dan’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the very caring staff of MDC who looked after Dan’s needs so well through the years. They are especially grateful for the extra time and attention that Dan’s caretakers devoted to him during his recent illness.  

There will be a private interment to follow.

Ronald Moffit Memorial Services of Portage la Prairie in care of arrangements.

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