In Loving Memory of Daniel Miranda

I often fret about our older living legends and fear that generations of knowledge, traditions, and values will be lost when they pass. In fact, in previous blog posts I have encouraged readers to reach out and proactively thank and interact with our living legends. Sadly, some legends do not get to live long enough. Today, Daniel Miranda passed after a long and difficult battle with brain cancer. To his credit, Danny Miranda never stopped living - or learning. No matter the challenges, he never gave up. Earlier this year, he attended a TU seminar with the same vigor and thirst for knowledge as every other Tobacconist that was there. Danny was a true inspiration and hero to me - he was a beautiful person. He was kind, giving, and possessed an indomitable spirit that will live on forever through his beautiful daughters, wife, parents, and sister. I will never forget his courage, love, and passion. Today we will honor him with a Certified Honorary Tobacconist degree - so that we will always remember and learn from his example.

My heartfelt condolences, prayers, and love go out to his family and friends.

Danny's last wish was that donations be made to the National Brain Tumor Foundation, in lieu of flowers ... selfless and fighting till the end.