Norman resident William “Bill” Joe Daniel, age 87, passed away on December 4, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Bill was born on November 14, 1938, in Oklahoma City to Hubert Orr Daniel and Nellie Irene (Prewett) Daniel.
Bill grew up attending Midwest City Schools and graduated from Midwest City High School, where he was known as “Mr. Defense.” He attended the University of Oklahoma in 1958 on a football scholarship under Coach Bud Wilkinson. His time there was cut short due to a collarbone injury, which ended his football career.
Following his injury, Bill joined the United States Army and was honorably discharged in December 1966. While stationed in Germany, he met a beautiful woman named Waltraud “Val” Baumert. In 1963, Bill married the love of his life, Val, in Germany. They shared 58 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on February 10, 2022. In 1976, Bill and Val moved to Norman, Oklahoma, where he resided until his passing.
In his free time, Bill enjoyed listening to classic 1950s music, working on classic cars, supporting OU football, and spending time with his family. He was a proud Shriner, a Mason, and a business owner of Allstate Sheet Metal, Inc. In 2019, Bill had the honor of serving as Potentate for the India Shrine.
Bill will be remembered as a hardworking man who cared deeply for his family and was a true jack of all trades. He led by example, teaching others how to live well and be good people. He was a dedicated Mason, Shriner, and member of SMACNA.
Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Waltraud Daniel; his parents, Hubert and Nellie Daniel; and his siblings Sydney, Hubert Jr., Gene, and Elizabeth Daniel.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Juergen Daniel and wife Rene of Norman; Janie Daniel of Norman; and Lisa Wright of Norman. He is also survived by his grandchildren Alexandra Daniel, Aaron Daniel, Elizabeth Wright, and Emily Aguilar; his great-grandson Oliver Hansen; and numerous extended family members.
Memorial donations may be made in Bill’s honor to Shriners Children’s at donate.shrinerschildrens.org.
A funeral service will be held at Primrose Funeral Service, 3901 N. Flood Ave., Norman, OK 73069, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, 2301 E. Indian Hills Rd., Norman, OK 73071. Fellowship and refreshments at the Norman Masonic Lodge, located at 1700 N Porter Ave. Norman, Oklahoma 73070, after the services.
