Drew Danik

Andrew Lawrence Danik, affectionately known as Drew, passed away on May 25, 2024, at his home in South Bend, IN. Born on December 19, 1953, in Elizabeth, NJ, to the late Lawrence and Betty (Schaffer) Danik, Drew's humor and wit touched all who knew him.
Drew is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Danik (Brady), and their children: Larry Danik of South Bend, Matt Danik of Boston, MA, Kevin (Jessica) Danik of South Bend, and Susan (Luis) Torres of Kailua, Hawaii. His legacy continues through his treasured grandchild, Mateo Torres. Drew's caring nature also extended to his siblings: brother Daniel (Norina) Danik along with their children - Sarah and Zach of Virginia and sister Bernadette Danik of Maryland.
A proud alumnus of Notre Dame with a Bachelor's degree in history, Drew went on to obtain a Master's degree in education from Indiana University.
While at Notre Dame, Drew earned Monogram Club honors as a student manager for various sports. A favorite memory of his was being a manager on the football team in which they won the 1975 Orange Bowl. Through his managerial and dorm activities Drew made dozens of friendships that would become life-long bonds. In later years Drew spear-headed efforts to hold yearly reunions for his dorm Holy Cross Hall. The "Hogs" as they are affectionately known, provided a bastion of memories that he cherished.
Drew filled his 24 hours with 27 hours of activity. From 1980 onward most days were filled with a mix of teaching, coaching, parenting, officiating, planning trips, golfing, planning reunions, connecting with friends and family, attending sporting events, and giving a helping hand to anyone that asked.
La Lumiere School was the first stop in Drew's 44 year career as an educator and coach. The remaining 37 years were at South Bend Community School Corporation, where Drew worked at 4 middle schools and 3 high schools. He instilled in his children and students the drive to achieve more than they thought possible. Drew's natural leadership ability landed him in positions such as Athletic Coordinator, Dean of Students, and member of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Education Center Advisory Board in Washington, D.C. As a coach Drew's focus for any sport was defense, fundamentals, and defense. As a teacher he emphasized his belief that history can help explain the present and to think critically.
Outside of school Drew could often be found officiating at another school or umpiring on a diamond. Drew was a founding member and then President for 20 years of the South Bend Umpire Association. In the fall it was football, winter was basketball and spring and summer were softball. It was on a softball field where Drew met the love of his life Barb.
The pair could often be found together enjoying all kinds of sports. Especially Notre Dame and the New York Yankees. They shared a fondness for the East Coast and often vacationed in Rhode Island or along the Jersey Shore. Often acknowledged by Drew was the constant support and love Barb provided throughout their marriage.
Drew retired from officiating and teaching for about 15 minutes and went back to both. His love of both was forever present.
Known for his candor, tough-love coaching, charisma, and wisdom, Drew's guidance and affection will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives he helped shape over the years.
Viewing will be held at Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel on Thursday June 6th from 3pm to 8pm. Funeral Services will be at the Basilica of Sacred Heart on Friday June 7th at 2:30pm at Notre Dame followed by Burial Service at Notre Dame Cedar Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Drew's honor may be given to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.
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