Daniel Paul Mickels

The world got a little quieter (and a whole lot less goofy) when Daniel Paul Mickels, 51, of Grand Junction, Colorado, clocked out for the last time on December 5th, 2025. Born on February 21, 1974, in sunny San Diego, Daniel immediately began his lifelong mission of making people laugh at the dumbest jokes imaginable. Daniel leaves behind his daughter Johnnie Wood, his mom Diane Newland, his dad Jerry Mickels, and his brother Brian Mickels—all of whom can confirm he was the family clown, the unofficial comedian, and the guy who could never stay serious for longer than 12 seconds.

He spent most of his years as a diesel mechanic, which makes sense because he loved anything loud, greasy, and fast. He had a soft spot for American muscle and drag strips… unless it was a Ford. He’d want it stated clearly and publicly: Daniel did not, under any circumstances, approve of Fords.

When he wasn’t tearing things apart or putting them back together, Daniel was painting, woodworking, making something cool, or watching a good movie. He was a walking, talking mix of “artsy dude” and “guy who laughs at fart jokes.” A rare combination. Daniel had a big heart—like, too big. He put everyone else first, helped anyone who needed it, and had a superpower for making people smile even on their worst days. You couldn’t stay mad or sad around him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, December 17th at 3016 Hill Ct, Grand Junction, Colorado. 2:00pm or whenever you’d like.

Anyone who loved him, laughed with him, or had a crazy story about him, are welcomed. Bring something that reminds you of Daniel if you want—car stuff, a drink, a silly joke, whatever. Or just bring yourself. He wouldn’t want people stressing.

Daniel left this world the same way he lived in it: unexpectedly, loudly, and with a smile. And though we’ll miss him like crazy, we’ll keep laughing—because that’s exactly what he would’ve wanted.