Nick McDaniel

Nick McDaniel ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Center - Morton on Mar. 10, 2026.MORTON – Nicholas "Nick" Allan McDaniel of Morton was called home unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.He was born February 12, 1982, in Peoria, Illinois, to Allan and Wynette (Mahnke) McDaniel, who survive.Nick is survived by 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.Nick proudly owned and operated McDaniel Plumbing Co. for many years, a trade he learned from family in Sullivan, Illinois. He lived his life surrounded by the things he loved most- especially music. He spent countless hours playing harmonica with friends, singing with his children, and sharing his enthusiasm by teaching others about the newest instrument he had picked up. Always seeking adventure, Nick was eager to try new things and loved bringing others along for the ride-especially if it involved his Harley.Some of Nick's happiest chapters were written in the dirt of the backyard, surrounded by his children and the projects he loved. He had a gift for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, whether he was stretching a zip line between trees or clearing new paths for his kids to explore. By bringing them into his work, he shared more than just his skills-he passed on the value of hard work and the beauty of finding immense joy in life's simplest, most adventurous moments.Anyone who knew Nick likely holds at least one funny memory that stands out. He was quick- witted and always ready with a remark, especially when it came to teasing his siblings. Nick loved his property and cherished the opportunity to share his life, laughter, and time with others.An informal visitation to celebrate Nick's life will be held on Friday, March 20 from 2-4pm at New Life Christian Church in Morton (401 West Edgewood Court).Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements.To leave an online condolence for the family visit www.knappjohnson.com.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.