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Daniel Yakovleff Obituary

Our beloved Dan, 20, of Boston and Ashford, CT, died Thursday, January 17. He was the victim of an unsolved homicide in Boston, where he lived and worked for the entirety of his short adult life. Dan grew up in Ashford, CT, where he attended Ashford School and graduated from E.O. Smith High School in 2005. He attended Blaine Academy in Boston, and has since worked as a cosmetologist at Liquid Hair Studios in Boston. Dan loved life and lived it fully. He always said that he lived without any regrets. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his parents Nord and Peg, his brother Damon, both his grandmothers and numerous grieving aunts, uncles, and cousins. There will be a celebration of Dan's life Tuesday, January 22 at Knowlton Memorial Hall next to the Ashford Town Hall from 5-8pm. In lieu of flowers a donation in Dan's name can be made to Joshua's Trust, Gifts and Contributions, P O Box 4, Mansfield Center, CT 06250

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Boston Globe on Jan. 21, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Yakovleff

Sponsored by Peg Rux.

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Angela Yakovleff

January 17, 2025

I think of you so often my smiling, special nephew. So many amazing memories keep you alive. You are so missed by all of us, but we´re thankful your spirit is with us. Loving you always. Aunt Angela

Kathleen Narowski

January 16, 2025

Dan,

Tomorrow marks the 17th anniversary of your passing. It is a date that I will never forget because it is also my birthday. And though the cloud of sadness that hangs over your passing will never go away, I also feel honored to forever be connected to you in this small way. My heart remains with your parents, all of your family, and the large group of people that called you a friend, of which I am proud to be among. Your memory lives on, and forever will.

Dave Schreiber

January 15, 2025

Dan, you are the ghost rider on my sky. When the air is sweet and warm I think I can see you riding those clouds in the sky.

Margaret Rux

January 15, 2025

Dan, thinking of you so much this week and during the holidays, and missing you terribly! Love you forever!
Mom

Dave Schreiber

May 11, 2024

Dave Schreiber

May 11, 2024

Dave Schreiber

May 11, 2024

Forget-me-nots for you Dan

Martha Stone

May 9, 2024

I think of you often Dan, and wish you were here to enjoy the growing Yakovleff clan. We miss you, but I know you are enjoying a peaceful existence where you are.
Aunt Martha

Jeanne LeClerc

May 8, 2024

Today is your Birthday Dan, but you will always be that energetic 20 year old in my mind. The joy of being around you and the laughter and sunshine you brought is missing today and every day but our love for you is endless!
Aunt Jeanne & family

Erin

January 24, 2024

Thinking of you always Dan

Francine Bernard

January 19, 2024

I always remember Dan at this time of year. The email from Nord was so shocking. I send you my love and continued condolences. The way you have honored his life is beautiful. I only met this charming young man once, and it is a memory I cherish.

Uncle Kim and Aunt Gerry

January 17, 2024

Dan, Today, standing in the waves of the Mexican Caribbean near to your `Happy Place´ - we, with your Mom & Dad, shared the joy of your beautiful spirit and the sorrow of you leaving us. I know you felt the love.

Dave Schreiber

January 16, 2024

Dan. You are still here, in my mind. You come and visit when I least expect it, sometimes when I'm walking in the woods, sometimes when I'm driving through Ashford, others when I'm sitting quietly at home. I miss you.

Martha Stone

January 15, 2024

I think of you often Dan. I wish I had known you better. Peg does a great job of keeping your legacy alive because she loved you more than you can imagine. You made a beautiful mark on the world.
Aunt Martha

Margaret Rux

January 15, 2024

Dan - really missing you and remembering your beautiful spirit! Love you so much - Mom

David Schreiber

January 15, 2023

Dan, you are still remembered. The last time I saw you, you were 20 years old. My memory's are keeping you young in my mind. I love you.

Margaret Rux

January 15, 2023

Dan, it's hard to believe that it's been 15 years! We all miss you so much, and regret you haven't gotten to live your adult life! Love you so much!
Mom

Aunt Gerry

January 19, 2022

Dan - I missed visiting with your mom and talking about you and remembering all your youthful energy. I feel that energy and know you surround your family with your sweet protection. I celebrate the life you lived and grieve the life you did not. so much love.

Margaret Rux

January 15, 2022

Dan, I think of you often especially this month. I can't believe it's been 14 years, and often think of what you would be doing now! We miss you so much, and hope you are at peace!

Love, Mom and Dad

Martha Stone

January 19, 2021

I think about you often Dan. I never had the privilege of knowing you well in life, but I know that you had many people who loved you dearly and that you are sorely missed. Your mother and father still miss you every day. I hope you are at peace.
Love,
Martha

Margaret Rux

January 17, 2021

Dan, what a strange year we just had - you would never believe it in a million years! We are all fine, and you have a beautiful new nephew, Felix, joining his adorable sister, Flora! They remind me so much of you and Damon! I know you would have been a great uncle! We miss you every day in every way!

Thank you Dave and Francine for your lovely words and support!

Love, Mom

dave schreiber

January 15, 2021

Dan, It's been another year since that Day. I am surprised that it happened so fast. You are an uncle twice over, we've impeached the president twice, and many other things have happened, some good, some not so good.
I love you, Dan, and all your family.

Francine Bernard

January 15, 2021

I will never forget the email from Nord telling me about this tragedy. I think of Daniel every time I read the Fishing Report during the summer, and I marvel at the strength and love Nord and Peg have shown. I know the grandchildren bring joy, and I know it is healing. With love, your friend, Francine

Margaret Rux

January 18, 2020

Dan, we miss you so much! Dad and I and Damon hope you are at peace!

Dave Schreiber

January 17, 2020

Memories of you rattle around my mind at odd moments. I hope you and Joe K are at peace, he was best man at both my weddings.

Erin

June 13, 2019

Thinking about you tody Dan, like always. Miss you

dave schreiber

January 19, 2019

Dan, I still miss you, as the years go by.
You are a special memory that doesn't fade.

January 18, 2019

Dan, You are still remembered and loved to this day.

Marilyn Schreiber

January 17, 2019

Dan, we miss you so much, especially today -it's been 11 long years since seeing your sweet face! Hope you are at peace!

Love, Mom

Dave Schreiber

May 11, 2017

Dan, we still miss you every day. Love you. Dave

May 10, 2017

Dan you would have just celebrated your 30th birthday - I'm so sorry you're not here with us. Love you and miss you always!

AJ Fritzsche

September 21, 2015

Dan, I thought of you tonight. I, and many others, miss you dearly.

Dave Schreiber

January 18, 2015

Oh Dan. You stay young in my mind, as I grow older every year. You are still young and beautiful, and I miss you.

Margaret Rux

January 17, 2015

Dan, it's been seven years, but still hurts like it's yesterday. Dad and I will treasure you, and think of you always - you are so missed by many loving family members and friends!!
Love always, Mom

January 24, 2014

Our sweet nephew -- how we miss you. That loneliness for you always hovering just beneath the surface -- wandering through my heart. Gerry

James Merrill

January 20, 2014

I still remember you Mom, most strongly from the day of my beloved Jan's wedding. Having lost both Jan and Alice even under more natural but difficult circumstances I have deep empathy for your everlasting grief!

January 19, 2014

Dan we miss you everyday. Dad and I went on a quiet hike on your trail to remember the awful day of your passing, and a huge branch was overhanging the trail near your memorial. We worked 8 hours over 2 days to remove it - I think you had a hand in this, to keep us busy and not be so sad!!

Love, Mom

May 8, 2013

Happy Birthday, baby boy - we wish you were still here to celebrate it - will miss you forever!!
Love, Mom

Love, Mom

Jim

February 16, 2013

At breakfast recently I asked a friend, "How long is it before you get up in the morning and don'f kind of expect to see your husband?" She replied, "I don't know yet. Carl has been gone only thirty years!"

January 18, 2013

Dan, You are remembered, your spirit lives on. Your fresh in my mind. You are love and missed. Marilyn

Dave Schreiber

January 18, 2013

Dan,
I still can't believe you won't be coming in my front door, and I'll never again offer you one of my home brews. You are always in my thoughts.

Jim Merrill

January 18, 2013

You and my Janny were such good friends that your pain is also mine! I have lost both of my ladys and find it very lonely. Jimmy is such a fine man rhat life at 90 is still wortwile!

January 18, 2013

Dan, like the sound of the ocean caught in a seashell, I hear your laughter come bubbling up from my heart. Happy memories and sad realities. Missing you. Aunt Gerry

January 17, 2013

Dan, it's been 5 years today since we lost you, but it still seems like yesterday. Know that your beautiful spirit lives on in many people's memories. We miss you terribly!

Love, Mom, Dad, and Damon

Margaret Rux

January 16, 2011

Dan, tomorrow it will be three years since we lost you. We think of you every day in so many ways, and miss you terribly. We'll love you forever!

Mom and Dad

Francine Bernard

February 11, 2010

February 12, 2010

I just looked at all the photos of Dan again. Gorgeous young man. While I only met him once, his personality shines through: that subtle sense of humor and the almost impish demeanor. He reminds me of Nord when I knew him in 1969-70.

I am impressed and moved by the enormous respect and love his many friends have shown over the past two years since his death. He obviously inspired loyalty and admiration among them. May Dan rest in peace and may those who loved him so dearly also find the peace they seek. Om Namah Shivaya.

Margaret Rux

February 8, 2010

Dan we miss you so much, and now that the trial has finally started, you are on our minds even more. We pray for truth and justice for you!
Love Mom and Dad

Diamond Dunhill

April 21, 2009

My Name Is Diamond Dunhill From Boston Now In Florida. I Saw Daniel's Picture In The Parade When The GAY AMERICAN HEROES FOUNDATION Walked By Me & Moved Me. I Hope All Will Watch This Video In His Honour.

A Friend Unknown,
Diamond Dunhill

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Leo0p2o1Ll8

Dave Schreiber

March 1, 2009

All you friends of Dan who help keep his memory alive are wonderful. I keep expecting to see him pop around the corner. His infectious grin, the twinkle in his eye, these are the things that I like to remember best.
Marilyn and I have spread ashes over parts of Connecticut and New York state, to honor you.
I still miss you, Dan.

Francine Bernard

March 1, 2009

I am so impressed with the friends that Dan has left behind. The memorial on the anniversary of his death is so unusual in this day and age. People forget so quickly, but somehow, there must have been something very special about Dan that inspires people to remember. Om Namah Shivaya! It's a beautiful legacy. Big, big love to Nord, Peg, Damon and all Dan's friends and relatives.

John Romano

February 27, 2009

Dan- I miss you a lot and I'm keeping you in my thoughts. My best wishes go to Nord, Peggy, and Damon. I hope to see you all soon.

Margaret Rux

January 22, 2009

Nord and I want to thank everyone for their kind and loving thoughts. We miss Dan every day in every way! I am keeping this Guest Book open in his memory.

Love and peace,
Peg Rux and Nord Yakovleff

Dave Schreiber

August 6, 2008

Dan, I write in this book to keep your memory alive. I think it is important that we continue to view these pages. I did not think to tell you how much I cared for you, that last thanksgiving we shared, when you drank my home-brew beer and pronounced it excellent!
I can only say I miss you so much.

July 14, 2008

I only met him once but you only needed to meet him once for him to treat you like an old friend. The world lost an amazing person.

marissa christina

March 11, 2008

there are so many things that could be said about dan, yet every word and every sentiment seems like too little.

dan was one of the most beautiful and warm human beings i've had the chance to encounter in a long time. i am lucky to have known him.

R M

February 20, 2008

I was so sorry to hear today of this terrible tragedy when I called to make my usual appointment with Dan at Liquid. Conversation with Dan was always so easy, and he was such a warm and vibrant person with a great sense of humor. He'd always "tell it like it is," and even suggested I "see a doctor for that" when I told him I thought my hair was thinning! He had me laughing and was just wonderful. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. I hope that you take comfort in knowing what a powerful impact he had and that he will be remembered fondly by many.

Suzana Stucka

February 6, 2008

Dan was a very talented professional, a fun, bright person and his loss is something hard to fathom.

My thoughts are with his family and friends.

Be well wherever you are, Dan.

Jill Clarey

February 6, 2008

Dan,
I remember it all like it was yesteday. It is your time now to be at peace. I will see you someday, for that I am sure.

I really miss you and the amazing times we had as roommates and friends. I will never forget watching Rome, one of your most fave shows!!! and mine to. We sat there one night, watching tv (well, trying to) and practically talked the whole time about how many similarities we had between one another and how interesting that it was. We convinced eachother that we must be related! I think everyone wanted a little something of what you had. It was truly inspiring.

You are missed so very much.

Your friend,
Jill

Laura Ray

February 3, 2008

I am in shock after learning this news about Dan. I cannot imagine anyone ever wanting to hurt him! He was an absolute sweetheart, fun-loving, and totally against violence. I hope to God that they find the person who did this to Dan. I will miss seeing you around the neighborhood sweetie.

Laura

January 31, 2008

I was a client at Liquid Hair, and Dan was so friendly to me every time I went. I am truly shocked by his untimely death. He was such a hard-working and sweet kid.

James Merrill

January 28, 2008

Peg and Nord, Alice and I are so very sorry at the terrible news. Life gives us tribulation some times that is incomprehensible. We can only imagine the desolation that is certainly yours. You surely are not deserving of it.
With our love, Jim and Alice Merrill

Diana Gagne

January 27, 2008

Peg, Nord, Damon,
Dan was a special guy - Anyone can see it in the outpouring of fondness and love on these pages.
I have vascilated between profound sadness and outrage. None of you deserve this pain.
We all need to honor Dan by speaking out loudly against the violence in today's culture. Dan will be missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

Owen Recchio

January 26, 2008

I only met and hung out with Dan a few times but what a personality I will never forget! Here was a person who would have done anything he could to help anyone and to open people's minds. Intelligent, fun-loving, and articulate, a truly peace-loving person. The world is worse off for his loss. He was an exemplary individual. He will never be forgotten. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends everywhere. May he be in a better place.

Scott Mahoney

January 26, 2008

Although I never knew Dan, I can feel the incredible loss and void that his death has left amongst his family, friends, and the community. His death was and will always be a senseless act, but his life and what he both brought, and gave to all that knew him serve as an internal gift to the rest of us.

Dan, may you rest in peace and may your parents, brother, family, and friends never let the flame which signifies the vlaue of your life dim and extinguish.

Michelle

January 26, 2008

I loved Dan's haircuts! He was so funny and there was never that awkward "I have no idea what to talk about with my stylist" type thing with him. He ALWAYS mentioned his parents and brother. I didn't know Dan very well, but I did know that his family meant the world to him and that he was a joy to be around. He will be sorely missed.

Steve Kerrigan

January 26, 2008

I didn't really know Dan well but met him at Liquid many many times. He was always full of energy and passion. I hope that the life he lived and the love he gave will be a sustaining source of light in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Gillian cox

January 26, 2008

Dan was always so cool and full of life. Whenever he cut my hair (which was usually after I'd had a looong day at work), I'd walk out with a smile on my face not just because the haircut was awesome, but also because Dan had a way of making me smile. He will be missed.

Jenn

January 25, 2008

Dan was the sweetest person i have ever met. I unfortunately only got to hang out with him periodically but everytime i did i knew i was in for a good time. He was the most down to earth person with a real zest for life and hair...he will be missed every day and always..

Christopher Murphy

January 25, 2008

I really never knew dan too well, but he always had a great sence of humerabout everything. My condolences go out to the family. May he rest in peace.

A

January 25, 2008

My condolences to Dan's family and friends. I will remember Dan as the fun and smart kid he was.
I'll miss you.

Jessica Smith

January 24, 2008

I remember growing up with Dan in Ashford and sitting with him on the bus. He was such an amazing person and the sweetest kid you could ever meet! He never had a mean word to say about anything or anyone.I will never foget him or his smile that always shined. He one of a kind, he was truly one in a million! My thoughts and prayers with his family

Kelly Flynn

January 24, 2008

Dan was one of the nicest people that I have ever met. I'm sure it will always be that way. Like a lot of other people have said I can't remember a time when he wasn't smiling, and he could always bring a smile to your face no matter what. He will truly be missed by everyone.

Terese Mayer

January 24, 2008

Looking back on all the years I spend with Dan at Ashford School and EO Smith, I never once saw him without a smile on his face. My heart is saddened that such a wonderful life was ended so suddenly but it certainly seems he lived and loved to the fullest. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Ruth Johnson

January 24, 2008

I remember Dan at E.O., always with a smile on his face, laughing. He was such a fun-loving person, full of life, friendly and optimistic. The world has lost something special. My condolences to his family, I'm so sorry, he's going to be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

Kathleen Narowski

January 23, 2008

I was so shocked to learn of Daniel's passing. I knew him through high school where we had a couple classes together and I always saw him as a kind, gentle, and joy-filled person. It's devastating to know that someone has taken such an amazing person away from this world. My thoughts and prayers go out to Daniel's whole family and all of his friends, who will be mourning his loss for a very long time.

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Ian Tyson

January 22, 2008

To the Yakovleff Family:

I am so saddened to hear of Daniel's death. He was an incredible person and I am proud to have called him a friend. I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.

Sherry and Jim York and Family

January 22, 2008

Nord and Family, We wanted to extend our sympathy on this tragic loss. I had only met Dan 3-4 times but he left an inspiring and delightful impact. He was obviously a special man with a great love and enthusiasm for life. We will pray for your family, and for the police to solve this crime and seek justice.

Erik Harakaly

January 22, 2008

Dan was a great guy. I knew him for a long time. He was whitty and intelligent, keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. They are great people

Gerald Campion

January 22, 2008

Nord & Peg,
I am very sorry for your loss.
Dan had the best of parents to help him navigate through his short life.
He will be sadly missed.

Sarah Kashi

January 22, 2008

Hey dan. Although I knew you for a short time, I will miss you dearly.You were such a joy of a person and my family and I were heartbroken by the news. We are all struggling to understand why any person could ever hurt such a happy and sweet person like you. I know that you are up in heaven now watching over us and making all the angels laugh and smile. Id like to extend my condolences to Dan's family and would like them to know that Dan made his mark here in Boston as well as CT. We loved him.

Chuck Conlon

January 22, 2008

4th of July week won't be the same without you! You were an amazing person that seemed to get along with anyone, how this ever happened leaves me so lost. You can't even imagine how many lives you touched. My prayers are with you and your family. Much love!

Amanda Damboise

January 22, 2008

Dan- You will be missed dearly

Jeff,Kathy,Joey,Victoria Godlewsky

January 22, 2008

Dear Nord and Peg,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of incomprehensible grief.

Ashley Barbeau

January 22, 2008

Dan, words cant express how much you will be missed amongst all of us who love you. you were such an amazing person to be around, always filling the room with smiles and laughter. the last time i saw you, was such a typical 'night with dan'...I'll never forget how even though we were with all of our friends, you locked me in a room and insisted on blowing out and curling my hair..telling me that i needed to spend the rest of the evening looking like a victoria's secret supermodel..and thats the effect you had on everyones lives you touched...you had the ability to make everyone who knew you feel beautiful. I will never forget you for that, and feel lucky to have known you. Rest in peace Dan. I love and miss you.

afsoon roselando

January 22, 2008

Dan,U will always be in our heart ,Never forget that smilling face.
Jim and Afsoon Roselando

suzanne lyon

January 22, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Bonnie Ognan

January 22, 2008

I remember when Dan and Damon attended
Ashford School.My deepest sympathy to Nord,
Peggy, and Damon. May faith and strength get you through this very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Ognan
Ashford School

dino

January 22, 2008

dan. i have said a prayer for you and your family.

Maria Gogarten

January 22, 2008

Our family is deeply saddened by this terrible tragedy - Dan was a friend of both of our sons and it is heartbreaking to know that such a promising life was cut short. Our thoughts are with the parents and Dan's brother - we will never forget Dan!

Alan Haesche

January 22, 2008

My little cousin Dan, my wife Susan always wanted to know if you would be at Dad's on the holidays and she was always exited and looking forward to seeing you, you two really had a connection. She adored you. You always were my coolest relative, no one is even in your league! In another time and another place, we'll see you again and have more time than we have here.
"No Regrets"

Tiffany Ouellette

January 22, 2008

i am so sorry for the loss of dan i remember spending time with him in highschool and he was always so happy, my thoughts are with you

Francine Bernard

January 22, 2008

Dear Nord, Peg and Damon,

You are all in my heart and meditation. We are all connected. I feel that Dan will reach down and help you through the worst part of this tragedy. When I lost David, I was comforted by all the ways friends tried to help me cope with the painful reality of death. I know you are surrounded by loved ones and I send my love into the mix. Om Namah Shivaya! Francine Gouvin Bernard

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