Donald James Daniels (Mouse) passed away on December 1st, 2022 at the age of 69 years. He is survived by his ex-common law wife, Maureen Evy-Lynn O’Neill; their son, Ryan James and his son, Maverick James O’Neill; nephew, Jeff Daniels; as well as cousin, Peter Daniels. Donald was predeceased by his twin brother, Ronald Daniels; mother and stepdad, Archie and Angie Poulette; Carter James O’Neill; and John (Bunn) Daniels. Donald James Daniels was born and raised in Fort Smith, NWT and was Metis. Donald and his twin brother, Ronald, had a challenging life. They were raised in foster homes and residential schools. Donald pioneered, as northern boys do! He was the zamboni man at all the hockey games in Fort Smith. Donald went on to become a journeyman painter at NAIT for four years and worked for the Northwest Territories Government. Donald moved to Airdrie, AB with his brother, Ronald, who was a red seal plumber. They worked very well together and opened their own small business for 20 years in the Calgary, AB area. Donald had one son, Ryan James. He would have become a grandpa on the same day that he passed, Thursday, December 1st, 2022, welcoming Maverick James. How ironic, don’t you think? When Don’s twin brother passed away in 2014, he came to Medicine Hat where his ex-common law, Maureen O’Neill, lived. The running joke through the years was, “he was her stalker for 36 years!!!” Don lived in the Parklane Motel, where he supplemented his income by getting a little sign made and he stood by the shopping carts panhandling at Superstore. Chat News wanted to write a story on Don. He had been in the final stages of COPD for a long time so panning was his exercise and outing. Many people would remember Don for his friendly, non-abrasive nature to his resourceful panhandling skills. Don had a playful side to him. He was known to be flirtatious with the ladies and the ladies didn’t seem to mind either (wink!) Don was a true northerner, one to never take “shit” from nobody! Size didn’t matter, he would stand his ground. Don loved his sports. He’d always be watching his favourite teams, Toronto Maple Leafs or Blue Jays, 24/7 and sipping on his Boxer Beers. He loved his chicken fried rice or cooking chicken hearts (ew, I know). The ol’ coffee pot will always be on for Don. The usual was black for me and his with ½ pound of sugar and, of course, with a couple packs of smokes while having a wise conversation about his insightful opinions about life. May Donny’s “Okihtcitaw” spirit live on!! Instead of flowers, Don hoped that you would do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for some poor unfortunate soul in his name. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Donald Daniels