The following poem was written by Danny Nykoluk's grandchildren Chris, Derek, Evan and Taylor, and read to him during last Thursday's ceremonial dinner at the Founder's Club. It should tell you everything you need to know about the man.
PAPA'S LEGEND
When the Argos number 60 comes to mind, what we think of is a legend in his time!
Seventeen years of giving his all, our Papa, Danny Nykoluk, stands six feet four inches tall.
The best offensive tackle on the line, he helped the Argonaut boatmen shine!
July fourth is a very special day, for his sweater will be hung in a very special way.
Among the rafters of the Dome it will sway, for all those who see it to admire and say,
"A true sports hero along with Shatto and Krol, he played with all his heart and soul!"
He set a record for most consecutive games played, and even with injuries, the best effort he gave.
The Grey Cup was his ultimate dream, so he gave all he had to support his team.
But the Argos fell short and he got too old, while the records he set are something to behold!
In '71 for the Cup final he came back, but with seconds left a fumble gave fans a heart attack.
So close they had come to triumph and glory, the end of a football career and for Papa, what a story!
That was twenty five years ago and since that time, he's become quite the craftsman and builder, so fine.
He's built bungalows, cottagws, decks and mansions. Installed windows and doors and done many expansions.
He once ran a driving range which he sold to the Fairity's. Now he golfs at York Downs and raises money for charities.
He's a serious guy with a quick sense of humour. That he's quit his cigars is only a rumour!
Lois his mate is a lady, first rate. Over twenty years ago they had their first date!
She's sensitive, caring and quite the cooker, and we don't mind saying she's also a looker!
Always there for us when we're in need of a sitter, she's a top notch worker and never a quitter.
As our Nana she showers us with hugs and kisses, and those special occasions she never misses.
Papa's lucky to have her and he darn well knows it. So deeply in love, he quite often shows it!
Clothes by the truckload, jewellery by the case, he spoils her rotten to see the look on her face!
And speaking of spoiling our Papa's the greatest! We do the smallest chore and he's right there to pay us!
For passing, for goals and even just for living, our Papa's the best when it comes to giving.
A ride to school, a ride to our games, a ride to the toy store drives our mom insane!
Water guns, movies and hundreds of figures, golf clubs, fishing rods and thousands of fish lures!
He finished our basement 'cause our rooms were so full, of toys he bought us and that is no bull!
Our Papa's "Mr. Patience", never raising his voice, unless of course we give him no choice.
We respect and adore him, can't wait 'til he visits, even if it is only for five minutes.
She'll ask him to paint or hammer or carry. Her never-ending list is really quite scary!
Well today's your day Papa, we never would miss it, not for anything, we even postponed another visit.
So that we could be here for this momentous occasion, we came without coaxing or gentle persuasion.
We're so proud of your past, and we're so proud of you now!
We love you so much, if you only knew how!
"You're the best, Papa!", us grandkids would just like to say.
So sit back, Papa, and enjoy the rest of your day!
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