Capt. Ennis Daniel

RANDOLPH CENTER—Captain Ennis (Danny) E. Daniel died unexpectedly at his home on April 30, 2007, at the age of 82.

The son of the late Ennis Emory Daniel and Ruby Evy O’Bryan Daniel, he was born June 24, 1924, in Saxton, W.V. He received his education in West Virginia, graduating in 1942 from the Mark Twain High School in Stotesbury, W.V.

Following his dream to see the world, he left after graduation and ventured to Baltimore, Md., and became a welder at the Maryland Drydocks, and later at the Dravo Shipyard in Wilmington, Del.

In 1943, still seeking more adventure, he enrolled in the US Maritime School at Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. Upon completing his training he left for the sea, serving his country honorably during World War II in the Merchant Marines.

In 1945, his love for the high seas led him to New London, Conn., to attend the U.S. Maritime Officers School at Fort Trumbell, where he earned his third mate license. Once again, he left for the sea, sailing all over the world until 1951.

After receiving his master license in 1951, he was employed by the Orion Shipping & Trading Company in New York City. He spent the next six years sailing as captain on various company ships that once again, took him all over the world. In New York City he met Julia Hogue Lawsing. They were married on Sept. 13, 1952, in Jackson Heights, N.Y. After their marriage, Julia gave up her career in the city and accompanied him on the open oceans.

They moved to the Panama Canal Zone, their home for the next 28 years. From 1958 to 1986, he worked for the Panama Canal Company, becoming one of the senior pilots on the canal.

He was one, if not the only, "Mustang Ship Captain" serving the Panama Canal. Also, at the age of 27, he earned his Unlimited Master License, and had the honor of being the captain of one of the largest merchant ships in the world at that time.

Upon his retirement, he brought his family to Randolph Center to live in the home where his wife had been born and raised. He found great enjoyment in renovating the home and in the pleasure it brought his wife to be back in Vermont enjoying the four seasons.

He became a respected and involved member of the community, forming strong and lasting friendships. He was always there to lend a hand to his friends and neighbors. The only compensation he ever expected was a few minutes of one’s time to listen to one or maybe two of his adventurous "sea stories."

He is survived by his son, George E. Daniel and companion, Jackie Hackett of Randolph Center; two daughters, Charlotte Daniel of Randolph Center and Emilie Daniel of Panama.

He also leaves a brother-in-law, Joe Lawsing and his wife Cathy of Windsor Locks, Conn., as well as several nieces and nephews, and his friend and companion Jean Trask of Randolph Center.

He was predeceased by his wife in 1994.

There will be a public committal service June 24 at noon at the Randolph Center Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Joslyn House, in care of Arlene Wright, 16 Maple Street, Randolph, Vt., 05060.

Arrangements are by the Day Funeral Home.

____________