Obituary of Daniel Gerard Bishop

BISHOP, Daniel Gerard October 25, 1943 - December 16, 2021 Died peacefully in his sleep due to complications from MDS, in Windsor, Ontario at the age of 78. Danny is survived by his wife Bernice (Wasowicz), the love of his life for 57 years, who remained right by his side until the end. Devoted father and proud/much loved grandfather of Sean (Heidi, parents of Adam, Olivia, Lily, and Nathan) in Arizona, Terry (parent of Alexa and Dane) in Windsor, and Paula (Anthony, parents of Matthew) in Australia. Poppy/Papa made every one of them feel special in their own way. He gave selflessly his time and attention to encourage and coach his own children and grandchildren, and was their biggest cheerleader for all of their accomplishments. Predeceased by his parents Peter and Lillian (nee Berrigan) in 1982 and 1975, brother Larry (Zita) in 2018 and sister Mary (Bob) in 2021. Loving brother of Pat (Judy), Leonard (Leigh), and Peter. Beloved brother-in-law and uncle to many nieces and nephews (“Who’s number #1? … Notre Dame!!”); friend and mentor to countless colleagues, students and extended family members. Dan “Bish” was a lifelong educator who positively impacted the lives of thousands of students during his distinguished career. He taught in Barrie (1965-66) and Hamilton (1966-67) before moving to Notre Dame in Welland (1968-86). In 1986, “Mr. Bishop” moved from Vice Principal at Notre Dame to become the inaugural Principal at St. Michael in Stratford, the first Catholic secondary school in Huron-Perth. He stayed there for 13 years before retiring to Windsor in 1999. Retirement did not stop his mission as an educator, and as a volunteer assistant football coach at Holy Names in Windsor, he was a tremendous role model and influence for so many at the school and in the community. Dan’s vision was to create a Christ-centred environment, providing student-focused learning that supported the growth of the whole person. His true genius was his ability to bring this vision to reality through compassionate leadership, a tireless work ethic, and utmost respect for individual differences and capabilities. His spiritual foundation was unshakable, and it gave him a calm and confidence that allowed him to face any situation with dignity and grace. Danny and Bernice barely slowed down in retirement. They were frequent world travellers and made special memories with friends and family in Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta, British Columbia, Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, New York, Australia, Mexico, and many other places. Bish was fiercely loyal to his beloved Fighting Irish and frequently enjoyed weekends in South Bend with family and friends. With Danny / Ernie / Dad / Poppy / Papa / Pappy / Uncle Danny as a tour guide the game became secondary to the experience, with many memorable stops over the years at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Bookstore, the Grotto, Touchdown Jesus, and the Golden Dome to name a few. Dan lived by the words of the prophet Micah, which he established as the motto at St. Mike’s: “Act justly, love tenderly, walk humbly with the Lord”. He was known to encourage everyone to “Be the best version of yourself!”. Peace, Danny. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date when the family feels that it’s safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, donations in Danny’s memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/en) or The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County (https://www.thehospice.ca) and are greatly appreciated by the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simple Choice (Dougall) 519-254-2585. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca.