Dr Sydney Daniel dies in Toronto

REVEREND Dr Sydney Daniel, father of Anand Daniel, General Secretary of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board has died. The former educator died in his sleep yesterday at his home in Toronto, Canada. He was 78. Dr Daniel was born in Preysal where he developed an appreciation for sports and its inherent principles which he carried into his adult life. He studied at the Naparima Teacher’s Training College where he began his career as an educator and later taught at several primary schools including Penal CM School and Grant Presbyterian School, San Fernando.

Dr Daniel was also involved in other aspects of education and extracurricular activities including evening lessons and of course, sports. He later transferred to secondary school level and taught history and geography at Rio Claro and San Fernando Government Secondary schools. While at Rio Claro he travelled the long distance to the Unversity of the West Indies, St Augustine to study for his first degree in geography. He was later awarded a scholarship to the University of London to complete his degree in geology. Dr Daniel was also awarded a scholarship to the University of Toronto where he and his family migrated in 1970.

He completed his Masters Degree in Native American Cultures and imparted his knowledge to many students under his tutelage. Dr Daniel continued to enjoy coaching volleyball and table tennis. He has also been involved in the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and as a lay preacher was guided by Christian principles as he preached to the rural communities and churches. He was an active member of the Susamachar Presbyterian Church in San Fernando. When Dr Daniel shifted his focus from education, he delved into the ministry and completed his Doctor of Theology degree at the Canada Christian College where he taught for several years.

His legacy of educating hundreds of students at all levels is evident when speaking to those whom he taught. He has been described as “patient”, “knowlegeable”, “willing to help” and “wise.” Dr Daniel will be laid to rest in Toronto on Tuesday. He leaves to mourn his wife Joyce, and children Anand, Annadale, Annmarie, Andy and Ansel.