Dr. Daniel Isaac Smoke
April 28, 1954 - November 4, 2024
Asayenes Dr. Daniel Isaac Smoke began his journey home on Monday, November 4th, 2024, surrounded by loving family and friends in London, Ontario, which he has called home and community for 47 years.
A member of the Seneca Nation, born in Syracuse, New York on April 28th, 1954, Dan spent his 70 years as a committed learner. The quest to grow his knowledge at any opportunity took him across the world and into the hearts and minds of every individual he crossed paths with.
In 1990, Dan, along with his wife Mary Lou, began their journey as activists, with the decision to become journalists at the Oka Crisis in Kanesatake to increase knowledge and understanding of Indigenous worldviews and experiences to the greater public. This path, unbeknownst to them at the time, set them forth on a journey to become beloved and respected knowledge keepers and professors, along as a trusted, uniting voice for people across Turtle Island through their work together as Smoke Signals.
To say that Dan left a mark on the path of every person he connected with can not be understated. He held a firm commitment to the Indigenous notion of “All my relations”. For him, it mattered to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to a place of common understanding, unity and relatedness through increasing accessibility of Indigenous education and worldview that will carry forth through his legacy.
Dan, a proud member of the Six Nations of the Grand River territory, is predeceased by his mother, Joyce Hill and father, Angus Smoke. A beloved brother to Sheila Adolph, Angus Smoke Jr, John Sloss, Roxanne Gibbs and Sue Contant and predeceased by siblings Morris Smoke, Kathy Angus, Debbie Sloss, and Tim Sloss. Father to Shayne Smoke, and cherished grandfather to Ryan Mitreski and Angelique Belcourt.
Special gratitude to cousin Gloria Williams and family for helping us with Dan's journey to the sky world.
He will be loved forever by many, but of particular importance, by the love of his life Mary Lou Smoke, to which he was a dedicated life partner. Dan will be welcomed home by their twin daughters, Nora Lynn and Julie.
The family would like to offer their deepest gratitude for the outpour of support and condolences offered by the people of London and the greater community at large.
A sacred fire was lit by the immediate family following Dan’s journey home, beginning his travels in a good way and following traditional protocol. The sacred fire will be continued by the University of Western Ontario’s King’s University College Reflection Circle as of 4pm, Friday, November 8th, 2024. The sacred fire will be open to all members of the public seeking to pay their respects and offer tobacco until Thursday, November 14th, 2024.
Resting and visitation will begin at 11am on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at Styres Funeral Home, 1798 4th Line, Ohsweken, ON N0A 1M0, with funeral service and burial to follow at 2pm at the Onondaga Longhouse. All are welcome. www.rhbanderson.com
Condolences
Posted by
Debbie Mitchell
on
Nov 6th, 2024
Sending my condolences to Marylou and her family. Dan was a great client and I was very honoured to have the pleasure to help care for Dan and our talks was always great and very knowledgeable. Dan was a very smart and caring individual. Spread your wings Dan and you will be missed by many. Until we meet again ❤️
Posted by
Zainab Amadahy
on
Nov 6th, 2024
It's been a long time since we last talked but Marylou and Dan made a huge impression on me with their cultural knowledge and wisdom. Dan's life was well-lived. I'm sure he will be missed by many. Hugs to his loved ones.
Posted by
Lyn Cooper
on
Nov 6th, 2024
My deepest condolences to Mary Lou and all his family and friends.
I am a better person for knowing Dan and learning from both him and Mary Lou.
Posted by
Charles Rogers
on
Nov 6th, 2024
I had not heard of my Bother Dan passing away he was loved by many of us and I will always remember him Marylou I express my deepest condolences your brother Charles Rogers all extended family. To be treasured for ever
Posted by
Rachel
on
Nov 6th, 2024
Incredible life work for the entire community. Thank you for all your teachings and advocacy. Your words will live forever. Safe travels
Posted by
Chantalle
on
Nov 6th, 2024
My deepest condolences to Mary Lou and all of their family and friends. May Dan’s tremendous work and great impacts continue to live on and continue to ripple throughout all of the communities he touched. Although I didn’t know Dan well, I am honoured to have met him, shared time with him and learn so much from him and his wife, MaryLou. I was touched by the great impacts of his amazing work, kind heart, patience and gentle spirit. Dan, you will be missed by many, near and far. Safe travels.
Posted by
Melissa McVie
on
Nov 6th, 2024
What a gift it was to be a student of Dan and Mary Lou, during my days at Western University. Dan’s gentle yet poignant delivery and teaching style opened my eyes, my mind and my heart and forever changed my worldview.
I am grateful that our paths crossed in this life.
Sending my love and deepest condolences to Mary Lou, family and friends.
All my relations xo.
Posted by
Christy Bressette
on
Nov 6th, 2024
On behalf of your many friends at Western University, please accept our most sincere condolences. Elder Dan was a true friend and teacher, and while he will be missed, the lessons he taught about truth, justice, and resiliency - especially in during challenging times - lives on in our hearts and minds. Miigwech for a life well lived!
Baamaapii gawaabmin. Until we meet again.
https://indigenous.uwo.ca/AboutUs/media_comms/elder_dan_smoke.html
Posted by
Al Sault
on
Nov 6th, 2024
So sad to hear of the passing of such a talented and knowledgeable man who has touched many of us in his lifetime. Dan and Marylou once had a radio show at CKRZ during their many years of dedication to the community. He will be greatly missed by many. Condolences to Marylou and their family.
Posted by
Jim Jütte
on
Nov 6th, 2024
It no longer seems strange to know that he passed on the day I was thinking of him. Since meeting him, he has been a kind older brother who passed a great deal of knowledge to me. I hope to honour his memory as I continue to share the experiences he shared with me. I keep a newspaper article by by desk in the classroom that talks about he and Marylou and how they educate all who listen. It is inspiring. I feel a bit empty now, but I really feel for Marylou. I have never seen such a partnership of love and life itself. O:nenki'wàhi Dan. Or as Marylou taught me O:nen G.
Posted by
Jug Manocha
on
Nov 7th, 2024
It's been a privilege to have met Dan on several occasions including at Rotary Club meeting and at a wedding blessing ceremony for a newly arrived bride from Nepal. His commitment to sharing the knowledge and customs certainly served the community at large. Marylou was always at his side and contributing to the journey. He will be missed by many. Our condolences to Marylou and friends and the extended family.
Posted by
Robin Buyers
on
Nov 7th, 2024
On behalf of the Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Group and Noojimo'iwewin Gitigaan National Healing Forest Project at 729 St. Clair W. in Toronto, it is my privilege to say to Mary Lou that we hold Dan in our hearts as he begins his journey to the Spirit world. We hold you, Mary Lou, in your grief, and honour all the contributions that you both made to our project, from Teachings about the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks to the sharing of the Water Song to your time at our site as 2023 Visiting Elders with the Toronto Neighbourhood Organization's Youth Leadership Development Project.
For myself, I remember 30 or more years of shared friendship that began with activism, from the days of the Aboriginal Rights Coalition, Turtle Island Support Group, the Coalition for a Public Inquiry into Ipperwash, and more. You taught me and all who worked with you so much about how to be in Right Relationship, how to treat one another and the living world with kindness, gentleness, and, always, respect.
A Sacred Fire will be lit at Noojimo'iwewin Gitigaan on Sunday, November 10th, at noon, with Elder-in-Residence Peduhbun Migizi Kwe Dr. Catherine Brooks presiding for Tobacco offerings in Dan's honour and in honour of Elder, Activist, Teacher, Senator, and Judge, Murray Sinclair. They began their journeys home on the same day and almost at the same hour. We imagine they are finding much to say to one another, both great hearts, great minds, great spirits.
Posted by
Don McAulay
on
Nov 7th, 2024
We at the HAMILTON RGIONAL INDIAN CENTRE send your condolence to Maryluo knowing you and Danny over 25 years my heart goes to you and all the ones that know you Maryluo and Dan is about the love you gave that was Danny
Posted by
Patrick Marissen
on
Nov 7th, 2024
My deepest sympathy to Mary Lou on the death of your soul mate. Although I haven't seen Dan since Morris' Feast, I always remember him as a kind, caring, compassionate and, above all, welcoming friend. During our turbulent adolescence, Morris and I could always find a safe refuge at your home in Toronto and later in London where we were always warmly welcomed. I will never forget these acts of kindness that I received from both of you. May Dan's spirit journey be as illustrious and meaningful as his life on earth. My deepest condolences!
Posted by
Kate Young
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Mary Lou, my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Dan was a wonderful man who with your help led our community to a better understanding of the indigenous ways. I will always remember our trip to Ottawa and Gatineau many years ago when I was with the TV station. Your commitment to supporting Smoke Signals was unwavering and together you both did more than you will ever know. Thank you for sharing Dan with an adoring community.
Posted by
Denise
on
Nov 7th, 2024
I'm so sorry for your tremendous loss, Dan will be missed.
Posted by
Laura
on
Nov 7th, 2024
My condolences to Dan's family- Mary Lou, Shayne and siblings and relatives.
Dan's contributions to our communities will live on through his teachings and work.
Much respect for him.
Posted by
Joan and Rene Meshake
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Dear Marylou,
I am so sorry to hear this - my heart goes out to you.
Rene has pancreatic and liver cancer, and is fading fast.
He and Dan will be journeying together.
with affection, love and respect,
Joan Meshake
Posted by
Alison Konrad
on
Nov 7th, 2024
My deepest condolences to Mary Lou and the rest of Dan's family. It was an honour knowing Dan, and his colleagueship meant a great deal to me. I learned so much from both Mary Lou and Dan and have incredible respect for their work and their many contributions to the community and society.
Posted by
Donna Atkinson-Wilson
on
Nov 7th, 2024
I knew Dan & Mary Lou for many years. Always supportive of the work we did with Our Homeless Community. He will be missed by those who respected and honoured his teachings. My deepest condolences to Mary Lou and Family. Fly high Dan.
Posted by
Joanne Muroff Smale
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Your sparkling eyes, tender smile and caring heart will never be forgotten. You and Mary Lou have opened my eyes to much in this lifetime, having worked together for a few decades, in spreading the word of events and causes. May Dan's memory stay alive in the hearts of many who loved him. Thank you for the teachings. Meegwetch. Joanne Muroff Smale, Planet3com.net
Posted by
Penn Kemp
on
Nov 7th, 2024
My dear Mary Lou,
Dan’s passing is such a loss for you, his family, and for us all. I know how much he and you contributed to our community in so many ways. How apt that Dan died on the same day as Murray Sinclair! The loss of our dear partners in life is so profound. Sending you so much love and ease at this saddest time. Penn
Posted by
Sharon Deebrah
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Dear Mary Lou,
I am deeply sorry for the passing of your husband, Dan. Meeting both of you and listening to your impactful stories has truly been a blessing in my life. Dan's presence and kindness will be greatly missed. Please know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Sharon Deebrah
Posted by
Rhonda Bathurst
on
Nov 7th, 2024
The Staff at the Museum of Ontario Archaeology and I were all so sorry to hear this news. Dan, along with yourself, Mary-Lou, have always been such welcome and honoured guests at the museum over many decades. While he'll be dearly missed, we treasure the legacy that he leaves us as a Teacher, an Elder, an advocate and a friend.
Posted by
Jamie Jamieson
on
Nov 7th, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of a family friend Dan Smoke who was a kind soul and eager to learn and share our knowledge. My condolences to Mary Lou and his family.
Posted by
Sheila Nitschke
on
Nov 7th, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to Mary Lou and family.
Posted by
Hiedi and Bill and the Mykonos Family
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Our condolences Mary Lou. We will miss Dan; he was such a good man. We cherish the memories of you and Dan at Mykonos.
Posted by
rathahonni
on
Nov 7th, 2024
O:nen ki wahe,onkiatenren tsi ni:iore tentsitewatatken! A.K.A. LARRY AND VERNA MCKENZIE.
Posted by
Patricia Gail Gyenes
on
Nov 7th, 2024
Mary Lou, we are all devastated by Dan's passing. I know he has earned his place in the sky world and we are all grateful for the events that brought us into your circle. We learned a lot. He and you will always have a place in our hearts and lives.
Posted by
Trish Van Katwyk
on
Nov 8th, 2024
Dear Mary Lou, Kevin and I pass along our love and condolences. A magnificent teacher, a beautiful friend to so many, and a deep stewart of community. With love, Trish and Kevin
Posted by
Gary Froman
on
Nov 8th, 2024
Condolences Mary Lou from me Leona and family for the loss of such a fantastic kind knowledgeable Elder. It was a honor to know him and you. I considered him my friend since we were young lads
Posted by
Jerry White
on
Nov 8th, 2024
I will always remember the wisdom and smiles from Dan as made this world a better place! Heartfelt sympathy to Marylou and family. Jerry
Posted by
Darren Dokis
on
Nov 8th, 2024
Our condolences Mary Lou. You have both touched so many lives, and we hold you in our hearts. It was an honour to sit in ceremony with you both. Dan will be deeply missed.
Posted by
Peter Schuler
on
Nov 9th, 2024
Condolences to Mary Lou and family . Did not have many interactions with Dan but felt he radiated kindness and acceptance of everyone as he worked to build bridges between communities .
Indeed a very kind and caring man.
Posted by
Patrick Mahon
on
Nov 9th, 2024
My heartfelt condolences, Mary Lou. Dan was and is a wonder and a great light.With love.
Posted by
Florentine Strzelczyk, Western University
on
Nov 9th, 2024
Dear Mary Lou and family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dan. I have participated in many events here at Western University and in London, where I could see Dan and you in action, sharing knowledge and history and introducing audiences and participants to Indigenous knowledge and ways of being, doing, and connecting. Dan will be dearly missed on our campus as an Indigenous knowledge keeper and Elder, a wise and generous human being with a great sense of humour and generosity in his judgment of others. He will be dearly missed.
Our Western community grieves with you, and I wish you strength and determination during this difficult time. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
Cordially,
Florentine Strzelczyk
Provost and Vice President Academic
Western University
Posted by
Dr. Paul E. Cooper
on
Nov 9th, 2024
Dear Mary Lou, family and friends of Dan,
I write today as Chair of the Board of The Aeolian Musical Arts Association to express or collective sorrow at the passing of a great man who was a friend and advisor to our organization over the years. We express our deepest sorrow for your loss and want to acknowledge the many contributions that Dan and you Mary Lou have made to our organization over the years, for which we are forever grateful. We are all better for having had Dan in our lives and he is going to be sorely missed.
In the days ahead, please be comforted by the wonderful memories that you all have of this generous, wise, and kind human being. Dr. Albert Schweitzer said, "The only thing of importance, when we depart, will be the traces of love we have left behind." May we all be comforted in the days ahead by the many traces of love left behind by our giver of knowledge, and our friend Dan. Requiescat in pace.
Paul Cooper, Chair,
Aeolian Board
Posted by
Jessica Smith
on
Nov 9th, 2024
I am so deeply sorry for your loss Mary Lou. I have many fond memories of helping you and Dan on your radio show when I was a student. I learned so much from you both. Dan was always patient with me and never held back a kind word. His wisdom has stayed with me for years and always will. May we all be comforted in the coming days knowing that Dan loved us all.
Om Sadgati
Posted by
Brenda Hutton
on
Nov 10th, 2024
My condolences to Mary Lou and Family. You and Dan have made a positive contribution to our world. We will miss him
Posted by
Leanne George
on
Nov 10th, 2024
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Posted by
Cindy & Rich
on
Nov 11th, 2024
Our deepest condolences Mary Lou Smoke, we have some very happy memories with you & Dan. That will live on in our hearts forever.
Posted by
Vivian Thomson
on
Nov 15th, 2024
Dan Smoke was a friend of mine at Princeton University. I remember him as kind and soft spoken and, in retrospect, the antithesis of privileged and entitled. Anyone who was not a White male faced a long list of obstacles at Princeton at that time. Dan was brave to even try to navigate those hurdles. I count myself lucky to have known Dan for the time we shared together as young people. It's wonderful to see that he found his voice and his purpose in life. I am sorry the world has lost him.
Posted by
Pastor Butch
on
Nov 20th, 2024
Our prayers and condolences to the family on behalf of Medina Baptist Church
