Daniel Aston.Photo: Facebook
Beloved bartender and transgender man Daniel Aston, 28, was among thefive people shot to death at a Colorado Springs LGBTQ nightclubSaturday, according to reports.
But while he may have been primarily known to many as a lovable barman at Club Q, those who truly knew Daniel’s heart knew he was an entertainer first.
According toThe New York Times, his mother Sabrina Aston, recalled how her son was “always dressing up” and had a “real good imagination” as a child.
He channeled his passion for performance into plays involving intricate get-ups put on alongside other kids in their Tulsa, Okla., neighborhood, theAssociated Pressreports.
“I just thought he was going to grow out of it, that he was a tomboy. Then he got really depressed during high school, and he came out to me,” Sabrina toldThe Washington Post.
During his college years at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla., Daniel underwent hormone replacement therapy, according to the AP.
He “was a man, always had been, just his body didn’t fit who he was,” Sabrina said, perThe Post, and in 2021, Daniel underwent top surgery.
Two years ago, Daniel got his first bartending gig at Club Q, where he also showcased his drag performances.
“[Daniel’s shows] are great. Everybody needs to go see him,” Sabrina said, according to the AP. “He lit up a room, always smiling, always happy and silly.”
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According toThe Post, Daniel’s parents were staunch supporters and his biggest fans, often bringing loved ones to his shows.
“We’d bring our friends and family every time they came in town to show off Dan. It’s family friendly,” she said.
“Not many parents go to those shows, but we were king and queen when we went there. They fawned over us — we never had to worry about drinks.”
“I’m still numb,” Sabrina toldThe Post. “I’m still in denial mode. I’m just not thinking it’s happened. Just some big mistake. I’m going to wake up tomorrow and it’s just a bad dream.”
source: people.com
