You know how one can get really excited about leading a hike? After leading for 30 years, it’s still in me to get excited. May 7th, 2025, was that day for me as I was leading a flower hike on Mt. Tzouhalem here in the Cowichan Valley. I call it the 4 Corners Hike as we go to all 4 corners, to see all the different views. The hike is 13km. I had 11 hikers come, and at the trailhead, everyone was excited to start.
The flowers and views were awesome. We had a snack at the Bench on Mad Dog Trail, and the views did not disappoint. Not long after that, our hike changed our lives forever. Daniel went down with what we believed was a massive heart attack or aneurysm. The 10 of us grouped together and, even within the shock ourselves, we did everything we could, including 40 minutes of CPR. Our friend and fellow hiker died. Even as I write this months later, that day is clear as can be, and I cannot get it out of my system – It lies before me always. The paramedics told us we did everything we could, and we could not have done anything more or better. Two days later, I was able to take Daniel’s two daughters, Sophia and Marie-Soleil, who flew out from Ontario, and we retraced their dads’ steps.
Daniel was an excellent hiker who came to Victoria for 3 months of the year with his wife, Helene, to enjoy the beautiful weather and fun things to do in Victoria.
He signed up for every possible hike he could do with the Outdoor Club of Victoria and made so many friends over the three years he was here.
Daniel was so kind and appreciated us as leaders.
The mountains were more than just a destination for him—they were a source of inspiration, a place of peace, and a reflection of his own strength.
On June 1, some came to Mt. Tzouhalem to retrace the steps and finish the hike we intended to do that tragic day. It was a time to say goodbye to Daniel, but he will not be forgotten. My group that was with me that tragic day were Laura, Bassim, Colleen, Susan, Sue, Daniella, Carol, Dorothy, and Susan. You all were amazing in all you did, and how you supported one another, days and weeks following.
I have a bookmark that was made by the family with a picture of Daniel on it. I carry it in my backpack always, so he is reaching some incredible summits.
On July 19 and 20th, I rode 200 km for Hospice on Vancouver Island – which I rode in Daniel’s memory.
I know he took fundraising very seriously. I was able to raise $24,800 for Cowichan Hospice. I think he would be very proud of that.
To remember these events, I made a video for Daniel’s family on YouTube.
Here’s the link if you would like to watch it.
I am still leading hikes, but this has certainly made me more aware of my surroundings on a hike. Every time I go past that spot, I will take a moment of silence.
May Daniel rest in peace.
-Mary Hof, hike leader, for the Outdoor Club of Victoria, and Island Mountain Ramblers.
Photography by Mary Hof.
A very touching and heartfelt tribute.