Dan (Danny) was born May 18, 1951, to Thomas and Constance Griffiths in Victoria and grew up in Sidney alongside his younger sister, Pauline, and brother, Eric (Laurie). He loved to roam the countryside and spent time building go-carts. As a youngster, Dan’s early interests included art, cars, playing pool and, of course, drumming. First influenced by local Christian musician, Bruce Wright, Dan started with playing on boxes and pot lids. In the 60’s and 70’s, he honed his drumming chops by playing for local bands such as Shandy, Glory Road, Beowulf and Peace Jeep. His musical involvement also led to the most defining moment of his young life. One night in a hotel room while on tour, he fully surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. This change of heart was a direct answer to the fervent prayers of both his mother, who lovingly guided Dan through the pitfalls and challenges of youth before her sudden death in 1972, and his grandmother, who discipled Dan in his new-found faith.
After a short time at Metropolitan United, Dan was invited to attend Trinity Christian Centre by his fellow musician and friend, Greg Davidson. There he found the loving and Christ-centered fellowship he considered his spiritual family. His band experience led him to be a part of Rainbow, an outreach ministry of the church. Drumming in church was not performative for Dan. In the spirit of the biblical King David, he knew he played before the Lord. His thoughtful and restrained playing – with eyes closed – testified to an intentional and genuine heart of worship. His love of drumming alongside other musicians never waned, and he maintained relationships with several of his former bandmates over the years. Despite his recent health struggles, Dan continued to drum right up to a few days before his passing.
In later years, Dan still loved vintage cars and driving anywhere, especially in his precious Bimmer. He had an eclectic taste in music from classical and jazz to pop and he enjoyed visiting art galleries and watching old movies, golf and boxing on tv. He also savoured Murchie’s tea, Walker’s shortbread, and a sip of Baileys Irish Cream. Trips to Butchart Gardens and leisurely vacations up island with family and friends were also among his favourite pastimes.
Over the years, Dan worked as a gardener and delivery driver, but he always gravitated to being more involved in church life. He helped to lead the church youth group and to arrange singers for church services. Appointed as a deacon, he eventually directed Trinity’s fledgling Bible school, the birthplace of his vision for Bible teaching. He loved the Word and unearthing its treasures to share with others. Eventually, he served as assistant pastor at New Life Community Fellowship up until his death. Dan’s duties included preaching, teaching Bible courses, and starting groups for vintage car lovers, seniors, and those suffering with anxiety and depression. This last group was especially meaningful to Dan. Birthed out of his own journey through significant mental health challenges to a place of healing and freedom, Dan knew that a safe and supportive community was critical to the healing process.
The Lord gave Dan a deep love for the church. He longed to see people established in Christ and released to serve others. Drawn to young people and new believers alike, and concerned for their spiritual well-being, Dan spent the last few years working on a spiritual growth course. He hoped this material would encourage the practice of spiritual disciplines and a life of devotion and service to Christ. Dan’s vision for the Body of Christ and his unconditional acceptance of people, along with his dry sense of humour and genuine humility, made him dearly loved and esteemed by his church family. He learned to lean into this love over the years, a love which never ceased to amaze him. He cared deeply for his own family, including his cousins, and he had a soft spot for both of his nephews, Jordan and Timur. Confident of the faithful leading of his Great Shepherd, Dan was ready to be with Jesus. Though he will be deeply missed by all who knew him, we look forward to seeing our brother in glory one day.
