Valdis R. Daiga

Valdis R. Daiga, age 78, passed away on February 11, 2020 at his home in Toledo, Ohio, surrounded by family. Val was born May 4, 1941 in Riga, Latvia to Zanis and Irma Daiga.  He grew up in Toledo, graduating from DeVilbiss High School in 1959, and earning degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toledo.  After marrying Liga in Cleveland in 1969, they settled in Toledo to raise their family. Through his work with various engineering firms in the area, and with evolving interests in multiple areas of chemical process engineering (from solar energy to combustion processing of metals and then to propane powered vehicles), he demonstrated how continuing education and knowledge was key. Val was also a firm believer in physical activity.  Having learned handball at his local YMCA as a teen, he was a lifelong player of the sport.  He helped organize a Monday night handball league at the YMCA/JCC and was an active player in the group until last month.  His love of the outdoors could be seen through countless boating/fishing trips to MacGregor Bay, on Lake Erie or in the Venice, Florida area.  Sharing this passion with his children and grandchildren was one of his favorite pastimes. Above all else was his dedication to family and relationships.  Val’s commitment to his large extended family, circle of friends, and relatives still abroad was evident.  He was often the organizer of large gatherings for either a shared meal or a fishing outing, with grilling being his specialty.  The importance of family, the value of education and life-long learning, an appreciation of the outdoors and activity, as well as a flair for a family barbecue will be a legacy that his family will carry on. Val was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Liga, his parents Irma and Zanis Daiga, and brother George.  He is survived by his sons, Edvins (Katrina), Talis (Lyndsey), David (Amy) Daiga; daughter Ilze (Jacob) Lowenstein; grandchildren Gabrielle, Anna, Grant, Claire, Connor, Henry, Oliver, Fletcher, Jasper, Zanis “Zane” and Pierce; brother Marcis (Inese); sisters-in-law Rose and Maija; and many nieces and nephews. A private service will be held in the spring in Cleveland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sylvania YMCA/JCC or Toledo Lucas County Public Library, or to a local charity of their choice.  Online condolences may be shared at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com .