Daniel CALLAGHAN

Hi Daniel, how are you?

It feels strange to be speaking like this, but I wanted to take a moment to remember you. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been 12 years since we first met in Belfast. I have to say, you were always incredibly kind to me. I’ll always remember how you guided me and helped me become better at my job. In many ways, you were the one who introduced me to Irish culture.

I still smile when I think about those breaks at Sawers, enjoying those amazing sandwiches together, and when you told me I should go into sales because it was the most fun part of the business. Looking back, I think you gave me some really great advice.

I also remember the day you explained to me the differences between Catholics and Protestants. I was just a Spanish guy who had just arrived in Belfast, and I didn’t know much about your culture. You were like a teacher to me, always sharing life lessons, and I truly have such fond memories of that.

And of course, I can’t forget all the laughs we had—especially after watching Narcos, joking around and trying to imitate Pablo Escobar. Those moments were priceless. I also remember how you used to ask me about the best places in Spain for a family holiday. I always thought how much you cared about your family in those conversations.

I even remember when you used to park your Audi in the apartments block where I lived in Belfast, and I would leave you little notes on your windshield—those small moments still make me smile.

My time in Belfast truly changed my life. It’s where I met the woman who is now my wife, where I somehow learned to understand the strong Belfast taxi drivers’ accents, and where I realized that you can actually be happy without seeing the sun every day.

I’ll never forget how you were always warm in the office—short sleeves, windows open—while I, a poor Spanish guy, was sitting there with gloves and a scarf, freezing. My dear Daniel, for someone like me, 20 degrees is definitely not warm! That always makes me laugh when I think about it.

You know I’ve always loved photography, and recently I was looking through some of the photos I have with you—and there are many. The very first one is a beautiful picture: you, me, some of our Wavteq colleagues, and even my parents and in-laws, who were visiting Belfast at the time and came up to the office. Moments like that mean a lot to me.

Whenever I think of you, Daniel Callahan, I picture you smiling—always smiling. That’s how I will always remember you.

I watched the funeral service from home with my parents, as I’m visiting them for a few days. They don’t understand English, so I was translating for them. It was a very emotional service, and I was especially moved by the words your brothers shared. It’s clear that you are surrounded by so many people who loved you, who love you, and who always will.

I truly believe that, in some way, you are up there, looking after your loved ones and taking care of them.

I also remember when you used to bring Emme to the office and told me she was learning Spanish with her teacher Juan. I loved playing with her back then, and now seeing her, she’s all grown up. You did an amazing job—you built a beautiful family. And I know you’ll continue to look after them from above.

I will always remember my five years in Belfast as some of the best years of my life. And I want to thank you—for your laughter, your jokes, your big-brother advice, and your kindness—for being such an important part of that time, and for making Belfast and its people a part of my heart forever.

Dan, it’s been a real privilege to share so many moments with you—through work, travels, and all the experiences we lived together.

I’m sending a big hug to you and to your whole family. Wherever you are, I’m sure we’ll meet again someday.

Take care, my friend.

Juanjo López Juanjo López, Valencia, Spain Saturday 11 April 2026