TRIBUTE: In memory of Daniel O’Dowd

Submitted by James Donovan

Daniel O’Dowd passed away on May 11, 2026, at age 65, after a long battle with cancer. Dan was proud of his Irish roots and all things Irish. He was, like so many of us, drafted by Marianna O’Gallagher into the cascade of Irish Heritage projects, from the Celtic Cross in Old Quebec (2000) to the Homecoming of the Jeanie Johnston (2003) and the Défilé de la St-Patrick de Québec from 2009 onward, and a good number of other activities in between.

Dan was the one who, along with Marie Josée Bissonnette of Parks Canada and the undersigned, cleared the Cross at the Custom House on its incoming voyage. Likewise with the ‘Capping Stone’ for the Celtic Cross, which travelled on board the Jeanie Johnston in 2003.

Dan was also the one who found a supplier to produce banners bearing Celtic family crests, which most of us now proudly display at various events, mainly at the Défilé.

Dan was caring and giving to all, a wonderful human being. He was my friend. Rest in peace, Dan. The younger generation will continue the job and run with the ball. 

For information: Dan was the son of the late JoAnn MacKenzie and the late Frank M. O’Dowd. He is survived by his brothers Ronald, Brian and Neil O’Dowd; as well as his cousins, other relatives and friends.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 29, at 10:30 a.m. at St Patrick’s Church, 1145 Avenue De Salaberry, Quebec City. The family will welcome visitors from 9:30 a.m. to offer their condolences. From there, the ashes will be interred in the family plot at St Patrick’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Hospital for Sick Children, 170 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON M5G 1E8 (sickkids.ca).