Our beloved Dan died completely unexpectedly on 21st February 2023 at only 50. He was just on the cusp of starting an exciting new chapter of his life in The Hague with his family, heading up a new Benelux division of Commerzbank, after the devastating loss of their eldest son Guy.

His death inspired an extraordinary outpouring of tributes from across the European banking world, from friends, family and old classmates, which gave us a great deal of comfort in our overwhelming grief. People remembering his warm, generous spirit, a loyal, brave friend who stood up for what was right, regardless of the personal cost, as someone who went out of his way to help others and bring people together. As a truly special person who lit up a room.

Inspired by the depth of feeling and our love for Dan we want to create a living tribute to Dan by establishing an annual prize at his old school, Highgate. This prize will celebrate an outstanding student who is part of the school's mentor programme. A student who embodies the qualities that made Dan so special—loyalty, bravery, kindness and care for others. Each year the school community will remember who Dan was and celebrate the importance of people like him. We believe that celebrating these values will help keep Dan's memory alive.

We thank you so much for your support.

The Oakes Family and Dan’s aunts Sophy Bennett and Jackie Benson x