Schools

Niles North Teacher Succumbs To Cancer; School Mourns

How did he affect you? Tell us in the comments.


By Pam DeFiglio, Patch.com

Dan Horyn, 34, an English teacher and coach of both cross country and track and field at Niles North High School, passed away Sunday night in his sleep after a battle with cancer, according to Niles Township High School District 219.

Horyn taught at Niles North for 12 years; he had been fighting the illness for at least a year. He leaves a wife, Andrea, and family members.

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"Over the course of his illness, he maintained his optimism and joy for life while teaching, coaching and being a positive role model for the entire Niles North community," wrote Principal Ryan McTague in a letter sent to parents. "Dan's positive spirit, passion for teaching and love for Niles North impacted our entire school community."

The school was making school psychologists, social workers and guidance counselors available to speak with students mourning his loss. 

"Because of our close school community and the strong connection Mr. Horyn had with staff and students alike, his death touches everyone in our community," McTague continued.

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Here is a YouTube video Mr. Horyn made.

What are your memories of Mr. Horyn? Scroll down to the comments, below, and tell us.  


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