Vale Daniel (Dan) Holzapfel

The Redland Foundation joins the wider Redlands community in mourning the passing of Daniel (Dan) Holzapfel, Redland Foundation patron, a respected community leader, dedicated Rotarian, generous philanthropist and proud Redlands local, who has passed away at the age of 103.

Born and raised in Mount Cotton, Dan came from one of the district’s pioneering farming families whose history in the Redlands stretched back generations. He attended the small Mount Cotton School, worked on the family farm from a young age, and helped produce food during the war years. In later years, Dan and his sister Una made their home in Capalaba, remaining active and connected members of the Redlands community.

Dan’s life was defined by service. Whether through local government, community organisations, agriculture or Rotary, he devoted countless hours to improving the lives of others. He served three terms as a Councillor on the Redland Shire Council from 1964 to 1973 and was involved in numerous professional and community organisations throughout his lifetime.

For the Redland Foundation, Dan will be remembered as a valued Patron, donor and steadfast supporter of initiatives that strengthen and protect our community. He was particularly passionate about the Foundation’s work supporting victims of Domestic and Family Violence and was a generous contributor to the Dîner En Rouge campaign. His support helped fund critical services, raise community awareness and provide practical assistance to individuals and families facing some of life’s most difficult circumstances.

Dan believed in the power of community and understood that lasting change requires both compassion and action. Through his philanthropy, he helped ensure that vulnerable members of our community received support, dignity and hope.

His commitment to service extended far beyond the Redlands. As a long-serving Rotarian, Dan was especially proud of Rotary’s global campaign to eradicate polio. Through Rotary’s efforts, supported by members and donors such as Dan, millions of children around the world have been protected from a disease that once devastated families and communities.

Those who knew Dan will remember his generosity, humility, quiet determination and unwavering commitment to helping others. His life spanned more than a century of remarkable change, yet he remained grounded in the values of service, community and kindness.

The Redland Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to Dan’s family, friends, fellow Rotarians and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We are deeply grateful for his friendship, support and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Dan Holzapfel made an extraordinary contribution to the Redlands community. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched, the causes he championed and the community he helped build.

Rest in peace, Dan. Your life of service has left the Redlands a better place.

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