Daniel John Scopick passed away peacefully on December 24th 2025 at Mackenzie Health Centre in Richmond Hill, at the age of 81. He will no longer be forced to eat hospital food (I’m looking at you, ‘pureed beef stroganoff’) or endure the frantic screams of his hospital roommate, Greg, whose vocabulary had shocked Dan to his core in recent weeks.
He lived a full and vibrant life. Daniel “Scoop Chick” Scopick was born on February 2nd 1944. He grew up in Canora, Saskatchewan with his father (John Scopick), mother (Helen Scopick – nee: LeLacheur), older brother (Jack) and younger brother (David).
Editor’s note: His friends awarded him the nickname “Scoop Chick” (likely a play on “Scopick”, and a reference to the ease at which he “picked up chicks”, so to speak). This is purely speculative, since asking him directly about the origins of said nickname led to Daniel giggling quietly to himself.
Of all the things Daniel was known for, his most prominent quality was the ability to tell incredibly long and detailed stories – usually autobiographical in nature. These stories included his legendary encounters with some of music’s most storied artists and were always a great conversation starter: Most notably, his brief role as a substitute drummer for British rock band The Kinks, as they played their way through Western Canada.
Other stories Dan had included being in a music competition with Joni Mitchell (Big Yellow Taxi), a chance encounter and short friendship with Cass Elliot (California Dreaming) while she was in Toronto working with the CBC, partying at Crystal Lake, SK with Randy Bachman (Takin’ Care of Business), and a private guitar clinic with Carlos Santana on a balcony at a mutual friend’s party.
He attended The University of Saskatoon for a degree in Fine Art, where he discovered he was colourblind! The news was so shocking, he drove through all the red lights on the way home. He had long wanted an adventure, and decided to leave school and drive across the country, to Toronto.
After moving to Toronto (to the only slum apartment in Forest Hill, as he would say), he became a fortune teller, reading palms for a living. His fortune would soon improve, when he “Scoopchicked” an unsuspecting lady named Nadya Hope Tokarsky, while she was trying to do her job as a cocktail waitress. After a brief courtship, which included Nadya purchasing cigarettes for Daniel, they married on August 25th 1972. Shortly thereafter, they, along with Dan’s nephew Ken, saw a UFO. This was confirmed by neighbours and made it into the local newspaper.
And yes, I know you cannot believe we are moving on from this story and want more detail. Life can be frustrating like that.
Having no more use for scooping chicks, Daniel became a world class father of three boys (Matthew, Andrew, Patrick). He supported the endless needs of these spoiled children by working for Hertz, and then becoming a “Zone Manager” at Avis, developing a new system to customize and convert high mileage rental cars into highly sought after vehicles for sale. Suffice to say, his driveway was the envy of all who knew him.
As his career progressed, he became a pioneer in the new field of creditor insurance for the automotive industry, opening S.I.G. in 1988 (which stood for ‘Scopick Insurance Group’). Later, the name was changed to ‘S.I.G. Insurance Group’ (which stood for ‘Scopick Insurance Group Insurance Group’). He never once felt shame for the later name change or the confusion it undoubtedly caused.
His resilience in business allowed him to shift his focus on serving dealerships in Central and Northern Ontario. He spent most winters careening wildly across ice and snow covered Northern Ontario roads. He enjoyed the long drives, but always managed to get home for his family so he could spend weekends camping or going to a Jays game.
He would often bring his children to Toronto Maple leafs games, which he supported with 4 seasons tickets since the early 1980s. Being a lifelong Montreal Canadiens fan, watching these games was used as punishment for the children. It was a harsh form of discipline by today’s standards, but allowed them to learn and grow.
But he wasn’t always so harsh, and on occasion, would travel with his boys to The Montreal Forum and The Bell Centre to watch an actual hockey game and eat Montreal bagels.
As the years went on by, Daniel planned yearly summer pilgrimages by car out West to see family and explore the mountains. These trips combined his three passions: Long scenic drives, endless musical playlists (The Moody Blues, Lighthouse, Eric Burden & The Animals), and coughing on sunflower seeds and burning his mouth with hot coffee to dislodge the stuck pieces.
As his children moved away and got married, he would still set up weekly dinners at whatever new restaurant he had discovered. He would be a regular at these mostly mom and pop style establishments, and always insisted on paying. It was seen as a form of entertainment for his grown children, to watch their elderly father eat them under the table and still ask for dessert.
Dan was an eclectic man, with so many stories it could fill a library. But he was also quite possibly one of the worst dressers in the history of men’s fashion. He blamed this feature on his colour blindness, but that would simply fall short of explaining his use of jean shorts with extra pockets, or always having a protruding sunglass case bulging out of his jacket breast pocket. There were moments of brilliance (such as his all white anniversary wardrobe), but they were outnumbered to be sure.
Needless to say, his wardrobe will be donated to whichever country can handle its safe and timely disposal.
Daniel leaves behind an impressive collection of Montreal Canadiens memorabilia and a sizable portion of Alastair Maclean novels. These cherished but bulky and difficult to store items will quickly replace some of the warm memories of Daniel with a mix of frustration and bitterness as a portion of his legacy.
He is survived by his wife Nadya Hope Scopick (nee: Tokarsky), three sons Matthew (Marianne), Andrew (Limor), and Patrick (Sarah), as well as Nephews Ken, Charlie, Chris, and Nieces Connie and Jody (Rich).
His current grandchildren roster consists of Cainan, Owen, Nekoda, Luke, Elianna, Sonia, Aliya and a yet to be named baby (currently named “cutest baby of the year 2026”). Predeceased by siblings Jack (Pauline), and David Scopick (whose wardrobe was immaculate).
His favourite hat will be laid to rest, along with Daniel, on Monday December 29 2025, at 11am at Morningside Cemetery in Palgrave, Ontario (326 Pine Ave, Kleinberg, Ontario). Afterward, there will be lunch hosted at a secret location nearby, where we can discuss Dan’s hat collection, and show outward displays of grief for various prizes (Alistair Maclean novels and Montreal Canadiens memorabilia).
All funeral arrangements are entrusted to Rod Abrams Funeral Home, Tottenham 905-936-3477. Online memories and condolences can be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Graveside Interment
Morningside Cemetery
326 Pine Ave., Kleinberg
Monday December 29, 2025
11:00am
Charlie Scopick says
Uncle Dan was special! He had genuine love for those he cared about and was never shy to express it. This quality was only surpassed by those he held disdain for.
Over the course of many trips visiting in Saskatoon it was always a pleasure to hear his outrageous and entertaining stories. They would stay with you long after they were told, probably due to the details and clarity provided that belied a memory that should have been ravaged by years of extensive beer consumption.
Dan’s generosity was limitless! When not paying for lunches or Rider tickets he would be leaving gifts like sandals or shirts. It never mattered that often they didn’t fit, it was the thought that counts!
I miss him dearly, and the close bond we enjoyed through shared interests in music, the Habs, Riders, and the Blue Jays. We would spend many nice summer evenings watching Jays games or music biographies intermingled with deep conversation over what the Habs’ management needed to do next.
May Dan rest in peace! Prayers and condolences to Nadya, my cousins, their wives, and their young families.
Charlie, Carsyn, & Kennedy
Tania Del Matto says
Dear Nadya & family,
On behalf of my parents, Tony and Sandra Del Matto our deepest sympathies on the lost of Dan. What a tremendous and full life he led. Wishing you peace and comfort in the months and years ahead as you carry both grief and love in your hearts.
-Tania Del Matto
Andrew Wallace says
Condolences to your family.
Although I didn’t know Daniel or your family, I must say this is the BEST obituary I think I have ever read – it gave a clear snapshot of who Daniel must have been.
I am sorry for your loss but happy for your ‘adventures’!
Kindes regards,
Andrew Wallace.
Connie Pippin says
What a heartbreaking loss of my kind, funny and truly UNIQUE Godfather and Uncle Dan! I was fortunate to see him earlier in the year when there and cherish the moments I got to be with him…much too brief but always -as was his way-left a sweet memory in my heart! From getting reprimanded for covering some expenses on a Keg bill unbeknownst to him, to his speeding me to his son’s new home to sneak in a visit prior to my flight out in mere hours(thus the “speeding terror”!lol! Racing to the airport on ’empty’ but insisting on not stopping to refuel for fear of missing my flight!(It all worked out!)His stories were the longest but you could not help but listen- ’cause they were always great although keeping the direction was sometimes (always!) hard for him to stay on point…But this was the charm of my wonderful Uncle Dan! He will truly be missed…the “boys” are all together now…heaven will do them well.Much strength to my beautiful Aunt Nadya…& her 3 Sons -my cousins and their sweet families.May fun times and crazy moments shared with your Husband/Dad carry you thru the years ahead with much fondness, laughter and love!, Much love,Connie,Kelsey,Skyler Pippin
Luisa Mollicone and family says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our heartfelt Condolences to you and your family. May the many years of Love you shared and Beautiful memories you hold bring you comfort and peace.
Janet Peters says
I am a second cousin to Danny. I only had a few opportunities to meet your family (I coined MAP – to help remember the order of your boys). While I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing, I thank you for a most lively obituary notice. Your beautiful family is in my thoughts. You have many incredible memories to call upon. XO
Gilou & Tim Coean says
What a great tribute to your Dad Matt! May he rest in peace and hang out with some of the best musicians from the past!
Nestor Hlynsky says
Deep condolences to the Scopick family.I knew who Dan was from a very young age,my older sister Jeanette was in the same class from grades one to six in Canora.Our parents were friends and I became a close friend of his brother David.Dan and I had three opportunistic travels through large portions of the U.S.Those were adventurous fun times of discovery always culminating in an area’s popular eateries.Don’t think they profited from our appitites.Dan’s driving skills concomitant with his story telling was indeed impressive.Dan was so so proud of his family.And Nadya thanks again for those wonderful dinners.May Dan rest in peace,Nestor
Grace says
Sincerest and Heartfelt Condolences for the family, Dan was a wonderful and loving individual, Definitely will be missed!!
Sending love and peace to you!
Tony Guarini says
Dear Scopick Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Dan’s passing. Having known him for 30 + years, I can honestly say he was one of a kind – a unique character who never lost that youthful energy that made him so special.
I have fond memories of the times we spent together. Dan has a great storyteller. Whenever I had the time to listen, his stories would go on and on, seamlessly running one into another with a talent that was his own. I heard so many over the years, though I regret I never got to hear the UFO one!
Our Chinese food lunches with Brad and Dan were always something I looked forward to. They were never just meals – they were guaranteed to be entertaining, filled with laughter and Dan’s endless stories.
What always struck me most was how much Dan loved his boys and their spouses. He took such pride in them and never missed an opportunity to share their achievements.
Dan was truly irreplaceable and I will miss him. Please know that my thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy.
Tony Guarini
Di Preta family says
Our deepest condolences to you, Nadya and your whole family, we are so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers.
Scott Davidson says
My condolences go out to the Scopick family.
Dan was my friend and he will be truly missed. I met Dan in the early 90s . He introduced me to insurance products and trained me in all my F&I processes. Outside of business he was like an older brother. A great family man, a loving soul, and yes he could really tell a story.
Scott Davidson
Stop 23 Auto Sales Ltd.
Jody Valstar says
Dear Aunt Nadya, Matthew & Marianne, Andy & Limor, Patrick & Sarah,
Our deepest condolences to all of you on the loss of dear Dan.
We were one of the families out west Uncle Dan and family would come to visit in the summer. A Koolatron full of beer & goodies, Moody Blues blasting, excitement about Alberta Steak, travelling and playing with the Kinks, and Dan’s detailed adventure stories of an exciting life in Toronto in the 70’s.
We loved witnessing Uncle Dan’s love for his boys, and his devotion to his dear Nadya.
Uncle Dan will be deeply missed.
All our love,
Jody, Rich, Alex and Callan
Ken Scopick says
Uncle Dan may be gone but never forgotten. Will miss him. Perhaps the family will find the notes he made while working on a novel in the early 70’s. I imaged there is a lot to go through and organize. My prayers go to all family members. Zor, from the dual star system in Zeta Reticuli, also passes along his condolences. Take care.
David Anderson says
Condolences to the Scopick family. I first met Dan when he was attending the University of Saskatchewan, likely in 1966 – maybe 65. I was attending high school with his younger brother David – well lets just say Dan became our role model in all things partying. There are a few more stories that could have been included in his Obituary that are likely best to remain in the memories of the participants. 🙂 He was a character, a friend and someone that will missed by all.
Ron Gareau says
Dear Scopick family.I first met Dan soon after starting in the car business in 1983 at Turpin Pontiac Buick GMC in Ottawa.Dan became a good friend over the years and even after I retired in 2016.we continued to stay in touch and go to dinner when he would happen to re-visit the capital for whatever reason.I always looked forward to our chats and I know his death will create a void in my life.Thank you Dan for the many years of friendship and for your persistence and honesty.I will miss you a great deal.May you find eternal peace in the arms of our Lord. Rest in peace “old friend”.
Chris Johnson says
Sad to hear of Dan’s passing. My condolences to Nadya, the boys, and their families.
I appreciated Dan’s humour and kindness as a young kid growing in the neighborhood on Beverly Dr.
Although Dan didn’t need the help, he would occasionally allow me to cut the grass for a couple bucks. Often he would also allow me to have a beer with him afterwards, as long as I didn’t tell my mom. I still remember the awful beer – Molson Stock Ale. I’m pretty sure he gave me the beer to ruin my taste buds. To this day I have a complicated relationship with beer – I want to enjoy it, but the memories of the awful taste of this beer come flooding back and force me to abandon my beer once again.
I know he’s still giggling about that.
Chantal Leclerc says
Deepest Sympathies to all of you!
What a beautiful eulogy! and so much fun to read. What a beautiful soul he was and the luck, everyone of you, had to have him in your life.
Paula Johnston says
Dan—“Dad” Scopick, as I always called him—never showed up without a story and never left without a hug. Whether in person or on the phone, he always made a point of checking in on me and truly meant it. That kind of care is something I’ll always hold close. In more than 20 years, I don’t think I ever heard the same story twice. In recent years, our conversations were often about the growing family—he loved talking about Nadya, the grandbabies, and the pups too.
He was there for me through the good, the bad, and the moments that felt impossible to get through. He showed up with love, patience, and a steady presence that made things feel a little less heavy. I’ll miss his stories, his laugh, and those visits more than I can say.
To Nadya, and to Matt, Andrew, and Patrick—you carry so much of him with you. His kindness, warmth, and strength live on through each of you, and I know he would be so proud of the family and the legacy you continue.
Nadya—you were the love of his life. He cherished you with every part of his being, and when he spoke about you, there was always a sparkle that only comes from a heart full of love. You are so blessed to have shared such a beautiful life and a love story that most only dream of. My heart breaks for you, and I pray for strength and comfort as you walk this journey ahead.
With love,
Paula & family