Daniel Ray Vaz

Daniel Ray Vaz, a courageous young soul who touched the lives of all who knew him, passed away on June 23, 2023, at the age of 28, after a valiant battle with Glioblastoma multiforme brain cancer. Born on April 1st, 1995, Daniel was the beloved son of Lee and Peter Vaz, who are left devastated by the loss of their cherished child.

Daniel's journey began in Fort Lauderdale, where he was raised and nurtured by his loving parents. He was a bright and ambitious individual, showing exceptional promise from an early age. Daniel attended Bethany Christian School and Westminster Academy, where his intellectual curiosity and passion for learning flourished. He graduated with honors, leaving an indelible mark on his classmates, who affectionately called him “Blue” because of the intensity of his blue eyes.

Daniel's pursuit of knowledge led him to Florida Atlantic University, where he embarked on the next chapter of his academic journey. However, fate had a different plan for him. In September 2017, just as he was starting his junior year, Daniel received the devastating diagnosis of Glioblastoma multiforme stage 4 brain cancer. Despite this heart-wrenching setback, he faced the challenge with unwavering determination and a spirit that inspired everyone around him.

Throughout his six-year battle, Daniel exhibited extraordinary bravery and resilience. His unwavering courage and positive outlook were a beacon of hope to those facing similar struggles. Despite the grueling treatments and physical hardships, he never let his illness define him. Daniel embraced life's precious moments, treasuring each day, and cherishing the love and support of his family and friends and those in the brain cancer community.

Daniel was not only a fighter but also an advocate for brain cancer research. He dedicated his time and energy to raising awareness and funds for this devastating disease. Through his efforts, he brought communities together, instilling hope and fostering a sense of unity in the face of adversity. He participated in brain cancer awareness activities in Tampa, Jacksonville, and was a regular attendee at the Washington, DC “Head to the Hill” event every May, where he lobbied Congress for brain cancer research funds.

Beyond his fight against cancer, Daniel will be remembered for his unlimited generosity, genuine kindness, and compassionate nature. He loved boating, being on the water, and sharing his passion for the water with his friends and family on his Ocean Runner boat.  He loved all animals but especially his three cats, Bo, Abby, and Little Sir.

Daniel Ray Vaz leaves behind his devasted parents, Lee and Peter Vaz, who took solace in their son's strength and grace. Their unwavering support and unconditional love sustained him through the darkest moments of his journey. Daniel is also survived by his half-brother Paul Vaz and his partner Susan Hoffman ;  half-sister Stephanie Vaz Maxwell, her husband Dana and their children Hunter, Kingston, and Lila; and grandparents Russell and Joan Ray Stadelman.  Daniel’s extended family includes his heart broken aunts and uncles Stephen Vaz (Rose), Sue Vaz, Debi Vaz, Joseph & Paula McPeak, Tra & Penny McPeak, Georgia McPeak and Daun Fest, and cousins who were more like siblings, Oliver and Nelson McPeak, Jenny and Sarah Vaz (Teddy) and Todd Bullock (Annie), all of whom were profoundly touched by his presence.  

In honoring Daniel's memory, his family kindly requests that donations be made to the National Brain Tumor Society at https://braintumor.org/  or any other cancer research organization of your choice. Let us continue his fight, raising awareness and supporting groundbreaking research, with the hope of one day finding a cure.

Although Daniel's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his bravery, strength, and unwavering love inspire us to live each day with gratitude, kindness, and a zest for life. Daniel Ray Vaz, a beacon of light, may you rest in eternal peace. A memorial service will be held for Daniel on Thursday, 29 June, from 6 to 8pm at Fred Hunter Funeral Home, located at 718 S. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL. Following Daniel’s wishes, he will be cremated and his ashes scattered in the Atlantic Ocean, which he loved, at a later date.