Nicholas Allan McDaniel

Nicholas "Nick" Allan McDaniel of Morton, Illinois, was called home unexpectedly on March 4, 2026. Born on February 12, 1982, in Peoria, Illinois, to Allan and Wynette (Mahnke) McDaniel, he grew up surrounded by family who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for hands-on living.

Nick proudly owned and operated McDaniel Plumbing Co. for many years, carrying on the trade he first learned from family in Sullivan, Illinois. He lived with genuine enthusiasm for the things that brought him joy, especially music. He spent countless hours playing harmonica with friends, singing with his children, and eagerly teaching others about each new instrument he discovered. An adventurer at heart, Nick loved trying new things and sharing those experiences with others, often on his beloved Harley.

Some of his happiest moments unfolded in the backyard with his children, where ordinary days became extraordinary through the projects and adventures he created. Whether stretching a zip line between trees or clearing new paths for exploration, he brought his kids into his work and his world, teaching them the value of hard work and the simple joy found in active, curious living. Quick-witted and playful, Nick was known for his teasing humor, especially with his siblings, and for his deep love of his property and the people he welcomed into his life.

He is survived by his parents, Allan and Wynette McDaniel; his four daughters, Paris (Carson) Hasty, Emerson McDaniel, Allyn McDaniel, and Leyton McDaniel, all of Mackinaw, Illinois; his brother, Trent McDaniel (Charlotte Westwater) of California; his sister, Alyssa (Kyle) Goodman of Morton; his granddaughter, Vivian; and two nieces, Corinne and Camille.