Frank Edward Daniels

Frank Daniels, 83, of Florence, AZ passed away on May 1, 2026 in his home as a result of a terminal Glioblastoma brain tumor diagnosis. He was born on September 6, 1942 in Gooding, ID to Sam and Ruth Daniels. Frank graduated from Shoshone, ID High School and went on to serve 4 years in the U.S. Navy. Frank married the love of his life, Karen Webb, on December 26, 1962. After his military service he graduated from Idaho State University with a degree in Natural Resources. Frank worked for the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management for 30 years.

After retirement he followed in his father’s footsteps making fiddles. Frank made 226 fiddles and 7 violas that are well known throughout the Fiddle and Bluegrass communities. His talent in making instruments is reflected by numerous awards for tone and workmanship over the years. Frank and Karen travelled extensively to numerous Bluegrass festivals to vend his fiddles. They also enjoyed many trips throughout the U.S. and Internationally.

Frank was known for his sense of humor, love of family and friends, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, and cherished his dogs. Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Daniels, children John (Sharleen) Daniels of Florence, AZ, Susan (Mike) Schoepflin of Rio Verde, AZ. Grandchildren Joseph (Natalie) Daniels of Silvis, IL, Julina (Anthony) Villotti of Port Byron, IL, Dylan Shields of Gold Canyon, AZ and great-granddaughter Mylah Villotti. His sister Judy (Kent) Player and family, brother CW (Jenna) Daniels and family. Frank is also survived by Ben Webb, Alice Webb, Cal (Elaine) Webb, many aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank the nurses and caregivers from Cornerstone Caregiving, and THEMA Health Services who cared for Frank during the final days of his life. They were so caring and helped the family get through this difficult time.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans originations or Glioblastoma research.