Daniel K. Daley, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and Veteran, passed away peacefully at home on October 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 23, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Daniel was the beloved son of the late Harold J. Daley and Helen V. Brady. He was preceded in death by his brother, Harry (late Patricia) Daley, sister, Lynn Ann Daley, father in-law, Robert Zmuda, and mother in-law, Cecilia Zmuda.

Daniel shared nearly 50 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Sharon. Together, they built a life filled with love, warmth, and cherished traditions. He is survived by his sons, Michael (Lauren) and Jeffrey (Heather), who brought immense joy and pride into his life. As a grandfather, Daniel adored his grandchildren, Isabelle, Nicholas, Kyle, and Evan, and he reveled in their sporting events and accomplishments. He is also survived by his brother in-laws Paul (Karen) Zmuda and Steve (late Dolores) Zmuda, as well as, numerous nephews and two great-nephews.

A proud veteran, Daniel served his country honorably in the US Army as a Specialist E-4 during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. Following his military service, he pursued a career with the phone company, where he dedicated his skills to contributing to the telecommunication connectivity that modern society relies upon. Daniel's life was a tapestry of rich family traditions and passions that brought him joy. He was deeply involved in creating memorable family moments, from making homemade Easter Polish sausage to carving pumpkins with his family and making holidays special.

His garden was a testament to his love for nature, and he tended to his flowers and vegetables with care, even as rabbits posed a playful challenge. Daniel loved to travel with his wife and cherished his time spent in Ireland and Hawaii, as well as cruising the Caribbean Islands, places where he felt at peace, especially near the water. Florida held a special place in his heart, offering him the serenity and joy of being close to the Gulf. Daniel was a cherished member of his prior church community, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister.

He found community and camaraderie with his Friday Breakfast Buddies, a tradition that brought joy and laughter into his weeks.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 701 S. Eola Road, Aurora, IL 60504. Burial with military honors will follow at Risen Lord Catholic Cemetery in Oswego, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hesed House, 659 S. River Street, Aurora, IL 60506; St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or American Liver Foundation, 332 S. Michigan Ave., 9th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604.

For information: 630/554-3888 or www.dunnfuneralhome.com