Daniel Lee Opela, aged 60 years, passed away on May 1, 2024, in Jersey Village, Texas, after a courageous 4-year battle with Cancer. Born on December 1, 1963, in Sugarland, Texas, he was the beloved son of Doris Ohnhesier Opela and the late Daniel F. Opela.
Danny was the youngest of four siblings, known affectionately as "little Danny," not just for sharing his father's name but also for his perpetually youthful appearance. He was a quiet yet passionate man, deeply devoted to his family, his work, and his principles.
Graduating from Aldine Senior High in 1982, Danny's passion for agriculture grew during his years there, setting the stage for a lifetime love of animals and hard work. He shared a lifelong bond with his high school friends, Bradley Evans and Joe Fellman.
Danny found joy in the simple things: his beloved dogs Diesel, Duchess, and Duke; mowing the grass on his John Deere tractor at the farm; being around his cows and Snickers the donkey; going to the St. Mary’s and Sacred Heart annual picnics in the country and bidding on auction items; and the timeless melodies of George Strait. He loved watching old westerns and old movies, with John Wayne as a perennial favorite.
Throughout his career, Danny exemplified dedication and perseverance. Starting as a mechanic's assistant, he rose through the ranks to become a valued member of the Tommie Vaughn Ford family for 20 years. His work ethic was unwavering, a testament to his belief that anything worth doing was worth doing right.
Despite his illness, Danny faced each day with grit and determination, surrounded by the love of his family. He found solace in the company of his mother, siblings, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, each relationship unique and cherished.
On May 1, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones, Danny peacefully slipped away, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering integrity. Throughout Danny's courageous four-year battle with Cancer, he never complained. When he was asked how he was doing his response was always “I’m good”. He exemplified love and kindness, endearing himself to his nieces, nephews, and even their children, who cherished him dearly. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him and we are sad for those who never got to know him.
Danny is survived by his mother, Doris Ohnhesier Opela, siblings Ronald and wife Lisa, Kathy and husband Jim and Danette and husband Ken. He is also survived by his children, Courtney and husband Josh and Daniel Jr. Also left to mourn are his grandchildren Trent, Beckham, and Knox Davis; Aunt Bonnie Ohnheiser and family, Aunt Delores Opela and family; nieces and nephews Jennifer Perez and husband Julian, Ronnie Opela and wife Martha, Marcus Ritchie, Brooke and husband Rod, Danielle Ritchie, step-nephew Kenny, step-niece Chelsea and partner Jarod, great-nieces and great-nephews Isabella, Julian Jr and Bagwell Perez, Addison Speigel and Raiden Briseno, Bodhi and Lilah Opela, Mason and Micah Ritchie and great step-niece Raelynn.
He is preceded in death by his father, Daniel F. Opela, two infant sisters, his grandparents, Frank and Johanna Opela and Joseph and Erna Ohnhesier, aunts and uncles Bennie Opela, Melvin Ohnhesier, Lawrence and Theresa Ohnhesier, and cousins Shirley and Ann Opela.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, or to Danny’s niece, Danielle Ritchie, who is currently also battling Cancer.
Danny – You were such a sweet soul and our hearts are broken. We selfishly wanted you to stay, but we knew you had to go. Mom had a dream after your passing. She was standing at the kitchen window at the farm. She watched you drive in the driveway with your black cowboy hat on as you had done so many times…you are home “Bubba” and you are at peace.
A visitation for Daniel will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Earthman Resthaven, 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060. Following the visitation will be a committal service from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home and Cemetery, 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060.
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