Daniel Victor Newman

The Hon. Daniel Victor Newman, B.A., E.C.O., passed away suddenly at his home on May 21st, 2026.

He is survived by his loving mother, Anne, daughter Alanna (Stuart) Clark, granddaughter Victoria, son, James (Pearl) Newman, and sister Debra (Shane) Whitman, brother-in-law Brian (Rosalie) Daffern, sister-in-law Katherine (David) Evans, and his many beloved nieces and nephews. Dan will be welcomed to heaven by his loving wife of nearly 35 years, Karen, beloved father, Victor, and dear father-in-law and mother-in-law James and Marion Daffern.

Dan was born and raised in Scarborough, where he lived the majority of his life, before moving to Orillia with Karen and his parents to enjoy sunsets over the lake. Dan graduated from R. H. King Collegiate Institute, where he met Karen, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Toronto. Dan and Karen began their relationship following their time in university, and his steadfast pursuit of Karen won her over, and sustained them for almost 35 years of marriage.

Dan was first elected to provincial parliament in 1995 to serve the people of Scarborough Centre as their MPP, and was re-elected in 1999 to represent Scarborough Southwest. He was honoured to serve as Minister of the Environment, Minister of Northern Development and Mines, and Associate Minister of Health and Long-Term Care during his time in office.

Following his time in politics, Dan joined POI Business Interiors where he served as an executive for the last 22 years. He took pride in his work, particularly the relationship that he shared with the Chippewas of Rama First Nation. He took great joy in mentoring the next generation of leaders at work and was a well-respected and beloved colleague. Tragically, Dan was set to retire at the end of June, and very much looked forward to golfing, skiing, travelling, and most importantly, time with family. Dan particularly cherished regular rounds of golf with James, taking the opportunity to dispense life’s wisdom, his values, and deep appreciation for wordplay and Billy Joel.

Dan was deeply involved at St. James Anglican Church. He valued giving back to his community and recognizing those whose work often went unnoticed. He celebrated many happy memories around the BBQ: his chicken and ribs are a family favourite. He loved sports, particularly the Toronto Blue Jays, art, and sharing stories of his time in politics. He was overjoyed to become a grandfather in 2024. Victoria was the light of his life and brought him so much joy following Karen’s passing. Alanna and Victoria will always cherish their 2025 trip with Dan to New York, and the many Jays games enjoyed together with Anne.

Dan was a true example of “in sickness and in health”, supporting Karen through an extremely long battle with illness. His shining example of love and commitment to Karen will be cherished for generations to come.

Dan and his family remain deeply appreciative of the outstanding care that Trillium Manor provided to Karen. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Trillium Manor General Fund. Laura Banks would be pleased to facilitate any donations. She can be reached by phone at (705) 325-1504 ext 4003, or by email at laura.banks@simcoe.ca. This will support the areas of most need for the residence and to enhance the residents’ experience while in Trillium’s care.

Visitation will occur on Thursday May 28th and Friday May 29th from 5:00-8:00 PM at Mundell Funeral Home in Orillia. The funeral will take place on Saturday, May 30th at 1:00 PM at St. James Anglican Church in Orillia. A reception at the church will follow. Please note that this obituary was posted by the family and is the only legit online posting.