Connor Riley McDaniel

A visitation for Connor will be held Monday, September 20, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary & Cemetery, 6601 South Colorado Blvd, Centennial, CO 80121. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 from 10:30am to 12:00pm, 6601 South Colorado Blvd, Centennial, CO 80121. Connor will be interred by family at Fort Logan National Cemetery following the memorial service. The family would like to invite attendees to a Celebration of Life for Connor from 12:30pm-4pm at On the Rox Sports Bar & Grill located at 11957 Lioness Way, Parker, CO 80134.The family will join you after interment, but invite guests to go after the memorial service.

Connor was born in Littleton, CO to David B McDaniel and Jonell Gram McDaniel on May 17, 1995. He attended Highlands Ranch High School and graduated in 2013. He joined the Army in December 2013 and bravely served in campaigns across Southeast Asia and Afghanistan. Connor received several awards including the Army Commendation Medal and separated at the rank of Staff Sargent in October of 2020.

Connor’s fellow servicemen were an important part of his life both during and after his active service. He was known for his humor; he had an incredibly unique trait to keep the mood light during difficult times and bring a sense of calm under fire. Those that served alongside him regarded him as a gentle and respected leader. Connor loved many outdoor activities including camping, hiking, kayaking and fishing with family and friends. He loved his family and never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. After the conclusion of his service from the Army, he was working in home remodeling and particularly enjoyed welding and carpentry. Connor was greatly respected and well-loved and will be missed by all.

Connor is survived by his beloved dog Lily whom he rescued and brought home from Afghanistan; his father and step-mother: David B McDaniel (MaryAnn Woodworth-McDaniel) of Centennial; and his mother Jonell Gram McDaniel (Shaun B. Teeples) of Castle Rock. Connor also leaves four siblings and two step-siblings: Dr. Kyle T McDaniel (Dr. Kira Grush-McDaniel) of Denver; Katelyn A. McDaniel (M. Paul Bustos) of Parker; Chase L. McDaniel of Commerce City; Emerson K. McDaniel of Greeley; and William M. & Ryan M. Woodworth of Centennial.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Connor’s honor to Puppy Rescue Mission https://puppyrescuemission.org/donate who is responsible for getting Lily from Afghanistan to the United States.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerchapelhill.com for the McDaniel family.