Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Parents’ tribute to their ‘perfect son’
THE mother of Montrose business owner and keen biker Daniel Lavigillante has described him as “the perfect son” as tributes pour in following the 38-year-old’s death.
Mr Lavigillante, owner of Angus Auto Shifters and an active member of Sinners Motorcycle Club in Carnoustie, passed away peacefully at home on Friday with mum Moria and father Jacques by his bedside.
A respected and well-known local figure, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last September.
His mum told The Tele that her son’s death had left a huge void in her family’s lives but that she could not be prouder of him and his achievements in life.
“We are heartbroken at the loss of Daniel, he was the perfect son,” she said. “We are so proud of all he did in his life and achieving all the goals he set himself.
“Ever since he was a young boy he was interested in cars and bikes and wanted to be a lorry driver.
“He loved his life on the road, driving for many Aberdeen and Forfar-based hauliers. He always said he wanted to own his own business, which he eventually did.”
His dad Jacques said: “Initially we were sceptical when he announced he was going to set up his own vehicle transporting company, especially during the height of the pandemic.
“But he set himself a goal and, yet again, achieved his desire through hard work and determination.
“In just one year he created a thriving and successful business.”
Born on August 18 1983, Mr Lavigillante attended St Margaret’s Primary School and Montrose High School. Later he became a keen bike enthusiast and active member of Sinners Motorcycle Club.
His parents said they’d been “overwhelmed” by the tributes following their son’s passing.
“The amount of tributes, messages and kind words have... come as a great comfort,” his mum said. “They are testament to how well Daniel was thought of.”
One of those closest to Mr Lavigillante was WO1 Pipe Major Paul Burns of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, who holds the distinguished position of being piper to the Queen, and was his oldest and best friend.
PM Burns, who will play at the funeral at his friend’s request, said: “You won’t meet a warmer, kinder and more generous man than Daniel.”