STELLARTON - Well known Stellarton trucker, Daniel "Danny" Leonard Dykens, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2010, in the Palliative Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital.
Born in the Red Row, Stellarton on February 17, 1931, he was the son of the late Robert Alfred and Elsie Hetty (Swanwick) Dykens.
Surviving are his companion and best friend, Betty Dunbar, sisters: Thelma Falt, Valley View Villa; Violet Carrigan, Stellarton; Etta Baker, Westville; and Elaine (Jim) Turnbull, Stellarton; brothers, Fraser (Louise) and Baker(Winnie) Stellarton; sister-in-law, Lois Dykens and Frances Dykens; a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Dan was predeceased by brothers, Robert (Mike) and Malcolm, sisters, Dorothy and Maxine.
Danny started working as a young lad using his wagon to collect batteries, scrap metal, selling newspapers, and delivering milk. He later worked at the Casket Factory, MacKay's Meats, and Maritime Steel. But his pride and joy was driving his trucks, rising early in the morning and putting in a full day's work.
In 1950, Danny started "Dan Dykens Trucking" and proudly celebrated 60 years of trucking on June 12, 2010. The Town of Stellarton recognized his achievement with a certificate of appreciation. Danny could be seen driving his various trucks throughout the county, hauling garbage, gravel, topsoil, or snowplowing, whatever the need, Danny was there. In 1950's, Danny put benches in the back of his larger truck driving children and adults to swim in Abercrombie or Pictou Landing for 25 cents, round trip! Leo McKay Jr. made reference to Danny in his novel, Twenty-Six as a well known trucker with a ½ ton who cleaned out houses during the 1960's.
As a young man he enjoyed stock car racing, thrilling the crowd as he did a rollover in front of the grandstands. He played hockey for various teams in Stellarton and the Trenton Scotians and sponsored a Gentlemen's Hockey Team in Stellarton and Westville. He enjoyed darts and bowling. Each spring he would travel to his favourite fishing spots and in the fall he liked to go hunting.
In 1947, he belonged to the Pictou Highlanders, he was a former member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 28 where he was their sports officer. Danny was a proud member of the Stellarton Fire Department for 22 years.
He always had a story to tell, in detail and with great enthusiasm. He could recall events in and around the Red Row and Stellarton. Danny was a great example of a strong work ethic and strength of character. He will be remembered for his quick wit, friendly smile and wave, happy whistling, twinkle in his eyes and willingness to give a helping hand. Danny met life's challenges with determination. The streets of Stellarton will be saddened as we say goodbye to our good friend.
His remains will rest at the H.C. MacQuarrie Funeral Home for visitation on Monday 7 to 9 p.m. and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday. A celebration of Danny's live will be held at Christ Anglican Church, Stellarton, on Wednesday at 11 a.m. with Rev.Aidan Kingsbury and Rev. Charles McPherson officiating. Interment will be in Christ Anglican Church Cemetery, Stellarton. Donations in memory of Danny can be made to the Stellarton Fire Department or the Palliative Care Society. Online condolences may be sent to angusfuneral@ns.sympatico.ca
"His willing hands will toll no more....His work on earth is done."