Daniel was the only son and oldest child of six. He was a natural big brother with patience, kindness, and a knack for problem solving and fixing. His dream was to finish high school and become a diesel mechanic, in which he would work with his hands and continue his passion for cars.
These characteristics are the reason he is remembered as the "helper" of the family, often at the ready to teach his sisters to ride their bikes or help family members fix their cars or hang Christmas lights. It is no surprise that Daniel's legacy as a helper remained unchanged when his untimely accidental death at the age of 15 left his family devastated and heartbroken. Prior to his passing, Daniel answered a simple question asked of him on the proudest day of his life: the day he received his permit to drive a car. He chose to become an organ donor, a decision he made on his own without second thought. Unbeknownst to him, his promise would come to fruition just five months later in the form of bone, corneas, heart and cardiovascular tissues. It is a blessing to know that Daniel continues to use his kindness and selflessness to improve the lives of others, even after he is gone. His generous decision has also inspired others to register as potential organ donors.
Daniel is greatly missed in ways which no amount of eloquence can describe, but he is still a helper. He left behind a family who loves him beyond measure, but with an inspiration within their heartbreak from a young man whose heroism can only be provided by a natural big brother.
