Lucky Daniel (LD) Ibagere was born in Bukuru, near Jos, Nigeria on June 4th 1946. He was the second of seven children. His father was Daniel Ilawere Ibagere while his mother was Comfort Unuworojor Ibagere both of Ellu township in the current Delta state. LD was raised in a family of hard workers. His father was a nomadic-chef who moved from place to place for work including in Jos, Ijebu-ode and Lagos. LD's father worked mostly as a chef for the Europeans but also in some construction capacities including as a building painter. LD was born on the same day that his father was offered a new job by the Europeans, which made his father to name him "Lucky". He grew up with his parents in Lagos, living at various times at Apapa, Ebutte-Metta and Ajegunle. He started his career through an Apprenticeship Training in Welding, Fitting & Fabrication at ASCO Construction Ltd Training School in Apapa Lagos in 1965, qualifying as a Journeyman in 1969. LD exceled at his work, receiving commendations from his German bosses and promotions at various times until he retired as a Construction Manager in year 2000. LD met his darling wife Francisca Ebimobere Sukore in 1968 and they got married after a period of courtship. Their marriage is blessed with children including Veronica, Stella, Kennedy, Juliet (Becky), Evelyn and Alexander. He is blessed with grandchildren including Stanley, Elvis, Isabella, Derin, Juwon, Raphael, Valerie, Isaac, Raymond, Onome and Richmond. He was involved in a number of associations where he spent his time to make things better. He was a member of the Lagos chapter of his township association (Ellu Township Association). He was a devout Catholic and a member of the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Shibiri, Lagos. He is survived by his wife; children; grandchildren; brothers and sister (Godwin, Johnson, Agnes, Nicholas, Samson); In-laws (including Albert, Joan, Femi, Ayemere). He was predeceased by his father, mother and his older brother (Benson).
LD's family was his source of joy. He constantly checked up on their welfare. He continued to share words of wisdom with his adult children and their families. He was a gracious man. He told many stories to his family to illustrate God's goodness in his life over the years. He would often say: "I am a lucky man, ehn now, my parents gave me the right name". He appreciated the smallest gesture. He gave a lot, he expected very little back in return.
LD had a great sense of fashion as obvious in his dressing. He had a very keen sense of humour, always in the mood to share a joke. He enjoyed good music from all parts of Nigeria and the world. He was full of life. He displayed the utmost integrity in all his dealings. He was a peaceful man who put God above all else. He will be missed by his family and all those who came across him.