RUMFORD – Daniel J. “Big Dan” Gallant, 43, of Waldo Street, died unexpectedly Monday, Sept. 12, at his residence.

He was born in Rumford, on July 24, 1962, a son of Marlene I. (Cody) and Leon “JR” Gallant. He was educated in Rumford and Mexico schools.

He was employed as a pipe fitter for Local Union 716.

He loved fishing, hunting, cooking, gardening, panning for gold and spending time with his family and friends.

Dan will always be remembered for having friends everywhere he went. His presence will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him because he was a giant of a man with a heart of gold.

He is survived by his mother, Marlene I. Gallant of Rumford; his faithful dog “Mowgli”; a brother, Shawn Gallant of Colorado Springs, Co.; three sisters, Melinda Gallant of Newcastle, Colleen Calden and husband, Dennis, of Mexico, and Tricia Waterhouse and husband, Ian, of Dresden; nieces and nephews, Joshua, Breanna, Tess and Alexandra Gallant, Taran and Jared Waterhouse, and Zac, Rachel and Chad Calden.

He was predeceased by his father, Leon “JR” Gallant; and a niece, Kali Calden.