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twidderfield
Member
Post Number: 3
Registered: 09-2013
| | Posted on Sunday, December 15, 2013 - 4:15 pm: | 
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Pine_sap: It was determined that the sleeping bag and items in it were not Dan's. There is no evidence he travelled any further than where his discarded jacket, smowpants and hat-scarf were discovered. Granted if he were to have ditched the backpack because it was becoming burdonsome it seems more likely he would have stowed it in a more secure location if he was in a rational state of mind. (Ie - behind a tree or something). The pack could have been moved there by ice out if it was in the water at some point. At least I think. The MiBSAR team that discovered it would have a better guess though. My only other question would be how thoroughly/far the woods and area to the east of his clothing was found was searched back towards the old logging roads in a more or less straight line. Even if he was wet and mildly hypothermic, given what we know now the temperatures were roughly all that week and his physical condition he could have made it quite far if he kept moving. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 240
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Sunday, December 15, 2013 - 7:19 pm: |
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pine_sap, In reply to your post: When Daniel left the house early that morning, we believe he decided to go up there, in a minimalistic manner, do it on his own, just him and nature, challenge himself against nature, perhaps on a vision quest or destination in mind such as Maple Mtn, Ishpatina Ridge, or the tomb like caves. This may not seem very wise or rational, but is the case. No matches or lighters were found in his winter clothing or in the back pack. It's illogical that he left without his tripping belongings, and what was found in his back pack does not help explain his intention. You are right, pieces of birch bark were found in the bottom of his pack, but no fire source or signs of campfire were found along his alleged route.
twidderfield is correct; when Don, Adam and I identified the winter clothing as Daniel's with the OPP in New Liskeard, we confirmed the other items found (very weathered sleeping bag, toiletries, underwear) were not Daniel's. The sleeping bag was definitely there for a much longer time based on the weathering and wear and tear. These items were found further north of the winter clothing.
So, the only real information we can go on, is that the night before Daniel left home, we learned after the fact that he was talking with someone about going to the caves with him. So, this is the logical place for us to continue our search for him. The area he described is north of the narrows that you mentioned. This is a logical spot to look for and check and may help us put the pieces of this puzzle together. Daniel was a risk taker, may have gotten himself injured, maybe experiencing hypothermia, maybe not thinking clearly or rationally.
Daniel was identified as buying fresh fruit and vegetables at the Temagami grocery store, perhaps some cooking oil. This makes sense, since he liked healthy raw food and stir fries. In the summer he learned lots about edible plants, but this would not help much in the winter. Arriving there after parking his car, we believe he likely walked to Camp Wanapitei, but Jeff was away for a few days then, so likely Daniel continued walking to the next place he knew about, the yurt. This is certainly where we thought he might be found. From the evidence in the yurt (Dmitri's yurt near Barmac Lake not Jeff caretaker at Camp Wanapitei), it looked like he may have been there initially for 3-4 days, based on the wood burned, the cooking oil container about 2/3rds empty and a knife missing, but no signs of the food, cans or plastic bags. The fresh produce may have all been consumed before he left the yurt. We believe he was there, and the area near the water showed he had built a stonehenge like replica which was not there prior to Dmitri leaving in the fall (October), meaning he had spent some time. Perhaps he built this pondering what to do. We always thought Daniel would go to the yurt, perhaps to decide what to do/where to go, perhaps think he could weather there for the winter. But, it appears he decided to leave, likely on the 6 or 7th, either for a day trip or for another destination (we suspect the caves).
Based on what we know of Daniel, we believe he walked from Barmac Lake, along Red Squirrel Rd and then logging roads. The walk from there to Sharp Rock, or perhaps the bay where his back pack was found is at least 28kms, then another 5kms to his clothing (as the crow flies). This could have been done in a day, but then what? That is the question. We believe he was continuing north, towards the caves or Maple Mountain, understanding Ispatina Ridge would be too far.
Regarding your scenario, please consider the above info. No, he would not walk around Lady Evelyn, would cross near the liftover. The OPP did search about 1km into Evelyn, but finished there. Our intent is to go further, towards the caves Daniel spoke of. He could have been heading back, but once again, we just don't know. With hypothermia, it would not be uncommon to want to burrow himself if on land, I never thought about the water as being warmer, but could be possible too. Although, a very extensive water search was conducted by the OPP, perhaps we need them to consider searching further to the south, closer to where the pack was found. We are still awaiting word from the OPP on float testing the pack back or reviewing flow patterns to determine if it could have been dropped and floated into that area. We don't believe he left it there on the way out to his destination, but instead on the way up to his destination, meaning he dropped his pack first, perhaps thinking he would be back to get it. Again, speculative at best.
Interesting you should mention: "Unless the items were deliberately strewn about by someone else which is whole other scenario." I have always felt that perhaps someone placed his clothing there. But, maybe that's my motherly defense. With the packpack found where it was, it too could have been placed there, but confusing based on it's location. But then I ask myself who and why? If it was Daniel or someone else, why? If Daniel perished up there, why are there no physical signs of his remains? If someone else placed the items, again the question, why? Still, more questions than answers.
Currently, in 2014 the MibSAR team are planning to search further north, look for the caves Daniel spoke of, which supports our thinking. Obviously, if evidence points otherwise or new information comes forward, we will reconsider this approach. We also need feedback from the OPP search coordinator, particularly their recommendation on further searching around where the pack was found.
Appreciate you sharing your thoughts and search scenario and your prayers. Please feel free to expand on your scenario based on the answers and beliefs shared here. Staying hopeful and strong is what keeps me going, something to hold onto during this way too long time of loss and uncertainty. As said before, Daniel would want us to be strong. We believe he would also want us to look for him.
(Message edited by trasker on December 15, 2013) |
pine_sap
Member
Post Number: 92
Registered: 05-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 6:13 am: |
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When I plotted what I thought was the most reasonable path between Barmac Lake and where Daniel's snow gear was found, where his backpack was discovered was right on that path. I honestly do not believe it was placed there by ice, or drifting, although, I admit it looks like it is possible judging by its relative proximity to the water. At some point Daniel WAS in that area in my humble opinion. Following shoreline is the easiest way to navigate (especially when becoming disoriented), and the evidence that has been found so far shows that that is what he was doing. Where the pack was found is an odd spot for a "deliberate" drop especially with no discerning markers nearby. It makes sense to me that the skull was to be used as some kind of offering and left at his intended destination. Isn't that Daniel's modus operandi? Making art and structures in places that have deep meaning to him? So that is why I don't think the backpack was deliberately left there.
As for the sleeping bag, what an odd spot to find such a thing, eh? Unless it was found relatively close to the MNR campsite. Since it does not belong to daniel, I think this points to daniel NOT intending to "camp" on his way to whatever destination he was trying to reach.
I had not heard about this yurt before. Its good to know that he did have food, and evidence of this was found. To me it looks as though he was using the yurt as a base camp, and intended to take a "day" trip to whatever destination. I now believe maple mountain was NOT his intended destination as it is too far for a "day" trip. i think the "caves" you speak of are a better probability. Nonetheless, there are mazes of old logging roads and trails in that area. VERY easy to get disoriented, especially without a compass, which I think is fairly certain he did not have with him. I think this is another plausible explanation as he may have been forced to spend the night in the elements and the onset of hypothermia causing him to become impracticable, hence the stripping of clothing etc.
I have canoe tripped up there for years, both on my own and at a camp that has been there for many more years before me, and not once have I heard of caves in the area. Does not mean there are not, just havent heard of any. It is a bit ironic though, I remember swimming in Lady Evelyn Lake as a youngster and we found cave-like structures underwater on an island not far from the liftover. So who's to say they dont exist on land somewhere nearby.
I stand by my earlier suggestion that the area near his backpack should be searched. I dont know how thoroughly the shoreline between Daniel's snow gear and his backpack has been searched, but that is an area of concentration as well, as i think the shorline of Diamond heading north towards the liftover was his main route.
As for the "delibrately strewn belongings by someone else" scenario, i think it is HIGHLY unlikely, but if Daniel had something with him that somebody wanted it could be possible. Did he have a wallet? Do we know if he made a large withdrawl from his account before he left?
Anyway, thats my two cents... Don't know if i am offering up any new ideas, but there ya go. |
pine_sap
Member
Post Number: 93
Registered: 05-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 12:53 pm: |
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Here is the rout I thought was most logical based on the evidence so far. It's the way I would have gone, at least to get to where Daniel's snow gear was found. It would have been mostly trail and logging road until the last bit getting to the shore of Diamond Lake.
According to Google Earth this route is only 10.2 miles or 16.4 kilometers. |
chris
Member
Post Number: 135
Registered: 03-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 2:22 pm: |
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I have heard of caves near Chee-bay-jing... they were supposed to be near a "lost" short-cut on the way to the trail head as I recall:
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pine_sap
Member
Post Number: 94
Registered: 05-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 9:15 pm: |
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Now that I have looked closer at the satellite imagery, it looks as though the trail (on the route suggested above) although faint, does in fact go all the way to the shoreline of Diamond, RIGHT WHERE DANIEL'S BACKPACK WAS FOUND! Cannot be sure though without actually being there. But it does look like there is a faint trail line that leads almost directly to where Daniel's pack was found. |
twidderfield
Member
Post Number: 4
Registered: 09-2013
| | Posted on Friday, December 20, 2013 - 12:27 pm: |
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I think Chris' take on the possible location of the caves is a good one. It jibes with the location mentioned by Dan and others. Though I wonder how "lost" this nastawagan actually is. It's true modern day trippers would likely choose paddle over portage, but some of the photos online seem to indicate at least some have chosen this old portage route on the way to Maple Mountain. Maybe any trippers on this forum who have taken this route could comment on this particular section of portage. |
chris
Member
Post Number: 136
Registered: 03-2006
| | Posted on Saturday, December 21, 2013 - 4:31 pm: |
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Well, yeah - lost is the wrong word. I actually walked accross there a few years ago. There is an obvious put-in and the trail starts out well enough then tapers out. It would not take much to brush the line through. I did not see any obvious land-forms that might hint of a cave, but I didn't really look too close. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 241
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 25, 2013 - 9:45 am: |
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Our Christmas message for Daniel
Dear Daniel:
This is our 3rd Christmas without you. We miss you, love you, pray for you, hoping we will find you. We wished that you were safe, healthy and happy, but that reality is fading, not hearing, not knowing. Our love for you will keep us strong, our love for you will never fade. May these Christmas candles help to light your way.
With all our Love,
Mom and Dad
XOXO |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 242
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Saturday, January 4, 2014 - 12:21 am: |
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Update: Daniel is now missing for 26 months.
With the close of 2013 and the beginning of 2014, we are fortunate that items of Daniel's have been found each year:
- 2011 his car
- 2012 his winter clothing
- 2013 his back pack.
In reflection, there is so much to be grateful for:
- Generosity of Todd for his cabin, making our searches easier with a comfy home base.
- Professional and meticulous search efforts of Michael and his MibSAR search team members.
- Responsiveness of the OPP in recovery of the items found.
- Sight of fluffy clouds reflecting on the still mirror-like waters.
- Sound of the loons, reverberating off the rock walls.
- Smell of fresh pine, drying leaves, and clean air everywhere.
Thanking each of you for your kindness and support.
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island_girl
Member
Post Number: 1
Registered: 01-2014
| | Posted on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 - 3:05 am: |
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I have been following this thread for a while, and I truly hope 2014 will be the year. Best wishes and hopes from BC. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 243
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 - 6:13 pm: |
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Update 27 months Another month has passed, missing Daniel every day. Thanks again for all the wishes and hopes. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 244
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 4, 2014 - 8:18 pm: |
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Update 28 months missing Daniel was 28 when he went missing, hard to believe he is missing for 28 months already, feels like eternity.
Don and I were fortunate to have spent time in New Zealand and Australia, helping to pass another month. Winter is always tough since we can't search. We met up with a mom (Lori) and daughter (Loren) in Melbourne who also have a Daniel missing, Daniel O'Keeffe. He was 26 when he went missing on July 15, 2011. To bring meaning, Lauren has started MPAN-Missing Persons Advocacy Network They are both amazing, an inspiration!
It's heartbreaking to learn of how many families worldwide struggle living with a missing loved one, but comforting to share and know there are others there to offer support. Continuing to hope and pray for a successful search this year. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 246
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Thursday, April 3, 2014 - 11:03 pm: |
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Update 29 months missing, and still no answers. But, spring is supposed to be here, so search plans are underway. With Michael Neiger and his MibSAR team planning two search operations again this year, it gives us hope and comfort that the search for Daniel will continue and is in excellent hands.
The May search (May 23-June 1, 2014) will focus on searching north of where his winter clothing was found, with a focus on finding the "tomb like" cave Daniel spoke of. It's the last place he spoke of prior to leaving home. I'll have more search details in my next update.
In reply to earlier posts:
island_girl: Thanks for your wishes of hope, we too hope 2014 will be the year.
pine_sap: The route you mapped is close to where the MibSAR team walked last year when finding his back pack, close to Foster Creek.
chris: Your suggested area is a possibility; Daniel went to Maple Mtn earlier in 2011 and could have found this path, not unlike him to find another way. This is further than where he had mentioned to us, but you never know how far he may have gone.
Hope all the winter lovers are getting their dose of fun in the snow and ice. We certainly got our fair share this year. Time for some heat! We'll be watching for the ice out posts, this will be a tough year to predict. It's not spring yet, here are the Spring Photos posted by Andy Stevens as of March 30, 2014.
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trasker
Member
Post Number: 248
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Saturday, May 3, 2014 - 11:50 pm: |
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Update 30 months since Daniel went missing, he is 30 years old, just doesn't seem real...but it is. A month has passed, but you wouldn't know it with the snow and ice hanging on, latest Apr. 28th Break-Up Watch. Kim Cowan has been sharing some pics from Bear Island, encouraging to see the TFN Air Boat out as of May 1st.
We have talked with most of our contacts in prep for the upcoming search. In talking with Michael Neiger, MibSAR team lead, he is looking at some alternative plans on other operations for the team since they have already scheduled time off for Daniel's search. If the snow is not out of the area, it would not be conducive to searching, the ground needs to be clear of snow, not to mention the ice gone. So, we need Mother Nature in our favour so that the ice and snow will be out by May 16th, which is when Don and Mike P. are planning to head up there to get things ready. More to follow so stay tuned.
(Message edited by trasker on May 3, 2014) |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 249
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Thursday, May 15, 2014 - 1:54 pm: |
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Update: 2014 Spring Search is a Go!
With reports of ice out in the North Arm yesterday, our 2014 Spring search plans for Daniel are in play, understanding there will be hockey playoff withdrawal for some. Thanks Brian for posting the News Brief titled Search for Trask resumes,
Don and friend Mike left this morning, heading to Camp Wanapitei, staying overnight, then heading to the Diamond Lake cabin tomorrow. The first few days will be spent getting the cabin open and setup. Then, some shoreline searching on the SW end of Lady Evelyn.
The MibSAR team had a Plan B in the works if the snow and ice was not gone. However, they can now proceed with Plan A, their search for Daniel, May 23-June 1.
Don and I both have a feeling this is the year we will find Daniel, sure hope this is the case, putting an end to the uncertainty of his case.
"Thanks" to all who continue to support and assist us on our journey.
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trasker
Member
Post Number: 250
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Friday, May 16, 2014 - 10:07 pm: |
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Search Update: Don, Michael and Todd arrived safely at the cabin and have good news - all is good! There is no winter or bear damage. They are taking it easy tonight after having carried supplies in requiring numerous maneuvers: unload from Don's truck and reload to Jim's truck, unload,carry across Sharp Rock portage, load up into Rick's boat, drive up the NE arm of Diamond, unload and carry up to the cabin. This is still very vivid in my mind from my trips last year, but well worth it when done; when you can sit back and listen to the loons, watch the stars and count your blessings.
Don said the ice and snow is gone, leaving clean and clear conditions for searching. This too is good news. |
trasker
Member
Post Number: 251
Registered: 11-2011
| | Posted on Thursday, May 22, 2014 - 10:21 pm: |
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Search Update 2: So far, so good. Cabin was not damaged by a bear this year, but there are again a number of mice that need to find a new home. Don finally got to meet Todd who had a short but enjoyable time with the guys. Everything is setup and working. Don and Mike have completed some shoreline checking on the west side of Evelyn just past the liftover, nothing found. I hear the fishing is quite good too.
Adam, my oldest son, and I will be leaving tomorrow morning to go up and join them. It will be nice to all be up there together as a family. We will be meeting up with the MibSAR team (4 this time)on Saturday before dusk or Sunday morning, depending on how their drive from Michigan goes. We are very fortunate to have them on Daniel's case this year again. The weather looks accommodating, hope it stays that way.
I was able to get an updated flyer along with a map of items found, again this year, gets tougher every year,...hoping this will be the last year of needing to do this. "Thanks" to all those who have responded and who are helping to get the updated information out there, special thanks to Linda at Temagami Chamber of Commerce and to Carolyn who is always a big help.
For anyone in this area, please review the updated information below and share if you know of someone planning to be in this area. I will not have internet access, so will post an update when we are back on June 2 or sooner if any news.
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Temagami canoe routes & backcountry travel 
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