Daniel R. Schindler

Born in 1933 and proudly raised in East New York, Brooklyn, Daniel often described himself as “East New York tough.” Those early years shaped a man grounded in resilience, humor, and deep appreciation for people and place. Throughout his life he remained anchored to the neighborhoods and addresses that marked his journey, each one a chapter in a life defined by family, friendship, hard work, and laughter.

Daniel was a proud Korean War veteran and served honorably in the U.S. Army, an experience he carried with him throughout his life. He graduated from Brooklyn College and went on to have a long and distinguished career in the construction industry. He took great pride in being a part of teams that designed and built a range of structures across New York City. Other than his time in the military, he lived his entire life within a relatively small radius, yet he traveled the world—mostly with the love of his life, Gay—approaching every place and every person with curiosity and openness.

Daniel had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. Whether friends who became like family, neighbors, shopkeepers, doormen, or strangers who never stayed strangers for long–and even through simple acts like sharing basil from gardens he lovingly tended— he made people feel seen, respected, and valued. In that simple, daily way, he enriched the lives of countless people.

Daniel passed away during the first day of Passover, under a full moon—timing that felt deeply meaningful to those who loved him. For more than thirty years, Daniel and Gay hosted an eclectic, joyful, multicultural, and multi-faith Passover gathering in their West Village home, bringing together family and friends of many backgrounds around one welcoming table. That tradition reflected Daniel’s generosity, hospitality, and belief in the power of connection.

Above all else, Daniel cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to Gaydell Young, his beloved wife of 32 years. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, conversation, and open doors. Daniel was a proud father to Robin and Marc, and a deeply loving grandfather—“Saba”—to Raymond, Maya, and Jacob, whom he adored and took great joy in watching grow into adulthood.

Daniel faced his final year with cancer with grace, humor, and generosity of spirit, grateful for the care he received and eager to share anything he found helpful or meaningful with others.

He was predeceased by his parents, Fannie and Joe Schindler, and his brother, Milton Schindler. He is survived by his wife, Gaydell Young; his children, Robin Schindler (Ray Howell) and Marc Schindler (Alison Auerbach); and his beloved grandchildren, Raymond Schindler-Howell, Maya Schindler, and Jacob Schindler. His earlier marriages ended in divorce.

Daniel lived fully, loved deeply, laughed often, and brought light to all those he touched. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

A celebration of life is being planned in the coming months in New York City.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Daniel’s memory may be made to the following organizations:

The Forgotten Children Initiative, a recently launched project of Georgetown University’s Center for Youth Justice, led by Daniel’s son Marc. For information about Forgotten Children, you can visit the initiative's website by clicking here, https://cyj.georgetown.edu/forgotten-children/

Contributions can be made through the Center for Youth Justice Fund by clicking the link below under Donations.

McBurney YMCA, one of Daniel’s favorite places and a community he deeply valued. Contributions to the McBurney Y can be made by clicking the link below under Donations.