Thomas F. McDaniel

Thomas F. McDaniel, affectionately known as Tom, age 97, of Eastlake, passed away on March 8, 2026. Born on June 17, 1928, to the late Clarence and Ola McDaniel, he lived a full life marked by dedication, creativity, and deep family devotion.

Tom retired from TRW in the mid-1990s after many years of faithful service. He remained an active member of the American Legion Post 214, giving generously of his time to his community. A gifted musician who mastered many instruments, he performed for years with the band TJ and the Misfits. In his quieter moments, he took great pleasure in meticulously building model cars and airplanes, and he enjoyed many rounds of golf as well as games of bowling and softball.

Above all, Tom cherished his large and loving family. He is survived by his children, Fred McDaniel and Cindy McDaniel, and his step-children, Robert Drake, Douglas Drake, Michael (Deanna) Drake, and Pam (Dan) Koshiol. He was a beloved grandfather to 18 and a proud great-grandfather to 9.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Leta McDaniel (Stanley), in 1997, and his second wife, Mildred McDaniel (Drake), in 2022. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Debra Ricci; his daughter-in-law, Kim Drake; his son-in-law, Vic Ricci; his granddaughter, Michelle McDaniel; his great-grandson, Justin McDaniel; and his 13 siblings.