A local man known for his environmental activism has passed away.
Daniel William Minock of Brighton died on June 21 after a long illness. Born in 1944, he taught literature and writing for many years at Washtenaw Community College. A dedicated environmentalist and the founder of the Crossroads Sierra Club chapter, Minock also led many birding trips in Kensington Metro Park. He was an avid gardener, cook, canoeist, hiker, and runner. His publications include poetry and Thistle Journal, a book of essays.
He is survived by his wife Donna, his son Michael of Sweden, and daughter Lara of New Jersey, step-children Susan and John Price, both of Massachusetts, and three grandchildren.
Contributions in Dan’s memory may be made to the Livingston Land Conservancy: https://livingstonlandconservancy.org.
According to a post on the Conservancy’s Facebook page. Minock was described as an “excellent naturalist, gifted birder, and forager extraordinaire” who had a gentle demeanor with a side of humor that made folks at ease when he was conducting a bird or nature outing.
“We are honored to be the chosen organization to receive donations in his memory,” said the post. “We know he understood the importance of land preservation since the birds he loved to watch and admire are totally dependent on habitat that will remain intact.”