But tragically the 23-year-old's life was cut short in the early hours of Sunday when his 1976 Holden ute lost control in the gravel and flipped on the Smythesdale-Ross Creek Rd, about 2km out of Smythesdale.

The vehicle skidded out of control for about 100m before ploughing through a small tree and some bushes and flipping end over end.

Daniel died instantly from severe head injuries about 3am, but police believe his body wasn't found until several hours later by a passing cyclist.

In death notices placed in The Maryborough Advertiser this week, Daniel's family paid tribute to their husband, step-father, son, grandson and nephew.

"That cheeky grin and loving heart will never be forgotten," said his aunt Sue.

"We can't turn back the hands of time or relive the past, but you will live within our hearts as long as time lasts," the notice reads.

Carisbrook Football Netball Club president Bernie Tatchell said Daniel often came to watch his brother-in-law play and was always seen around the club.

"He didn't play football but he certainly loved to watch it. He always bought the little fellow (Jayden) with him," Mr Tatchell said.

Daniel, who was completing an apprenticeship in diesel engineering, was the son of Dianne Thicle and Trevor Templeton of Maryborough, and a brother to Adele, Ross, Edward and Ryan.

He had moved to the Ballarat area from Maryborough a few years ago.