OBITUARY
Daniel Jason Morales
August 21, 1980 – August 4, 2020
Daniel Jason Morales, R.N., of El Paso, Texas, passed from this life on August 4, 2020. “Our Favorite Nurse” embodied everything that is good and bright in this world. The passing of his beautiful soul, taken from this world much too soon, has left it a dimmer place. He was a beloved son, grandson, brother, husband, father, uncle, godfather, and medical professional who lovingly and passionately dedicated his life to serving others. Daniel was predeceased and reunited in spirit with his maternal grandfather Chris Medina, his paternal grandfather Francisco A. Morales, and his uncle David Morales. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Erika Morales, his children Danika, Dominik, Daniella, and Desiree Morales; parents Francisco J. and Minerva Morales; paternal grandmother Josefina Morales, maternal grandmother Eduvina Medina; brother Christopher (Claudia), sister Amanda (Ernie); nephew Sebastian, and nieces Hailey, Heather, Hollie, Hannah, Nadia, Rosie and Lily. Beyond his immediate family, Daniel leaves the love of extended family, the Castor family, and many friends and colleagues whose lives he has touched forever. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Daniel was born on August 21, 1980, the middle child in a tight-knit family. As a brother and son, he was loving, tolerant, accepting, loyal and forgiving. He was also a ferocious protector. He attended Crockett Elementary School and Austin High School. He was a proud Panther football player (and he played golf), graduating in 1998. Throughout his school years, he was an active participant in student government, sports and other activities. Life-long friendships were created during these times. He attended the University of Texas at El Paso and was a proud UTEP Miner who supported football and other sports. He graduated from the University, receiving his nursing degree in 2005. DJ, as he was known in his youth, was always a bright light. His gentle and selfless spirit was revealed early in his life. Many have expressed their gratitude for his willingness to assist, support, guide and motivate them in their various endeavors related to school and work. His mischievous humor and quick wit were unparalleled. He could be counted on to provide entertainment at every turn. He has been described as always having a smile on his face and a punchline on his mind. Our gentle giant gave the most loving bear hugs and his smile could light the darkest room. He never met a stranger and had a gift for being able to talk to anyone. “My Love” to Erika, Daniel was a lover of music and movies of all genres and will always be known as “Mr. Greatest Hits.” He loved a good gathering and all barbeques. Throughout his lifetime, Daniel was all about relationships. All of them. The Morales home served as a gathering place, a refuge, an open door for all, and Daniel learned and embodied this each day of his life. Friends weren’t friends, they were family. We think he would now be reminding us, “Go spend time with your family. Give them a big hug and tell them you love them.” Daniel was a devoted family man whose wife and children were his world. He met the love of his life in his middle school years. Their love story took a few twists and turns through the years, but finally realizing they were meant for each other, they married in 2007. It was a blessed and happy union producing four beautiful children and enduring memories. He will always remain his love’s twin flame and soulmate and she will forever celebrate his amazing, beautiful life. Erika is determined that she and their children will complete his bucket list in honor of their love for him. Life before COVID-19 was all about bear hugs and gatherings. Sadly, the pandemic altered our lives and behaviors as we followed CDC guidelines faithfully. Daniel was a registered nurse who worked in the Coronary Critical Care Unit at the Hospitals at Providence Sierra Campus for 10 years. For the last six years, he served as a dialysis nurse at DaVita Dialysis. Throughout his career, he served as a supportive and inspirational mentor to his co-workers and a skilled and caring, compassionate nurse to many. The lives he touched were innumerable, the friends he made countless, the love he shared infinite. Daniel took care of his patients to the very end before being hospitalized and succumbing to COVID-19 at the same facility in which he had cared for so many. Special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, and staff in the Intensive Care Unit at the Sierra Campus; the hundreds of prayer warriors who prayed for him near and far; the DaVita Dialysis Team; and Abundant Living Faith Center, all of whom walked with us on this difficult journey. Serving as pallbearers: Christopher Morales, Ernie Morales, Felix Castor, Fernie Castor, David Castor, Matthew Castor, Justin Arnsworth, Joey Ruiz, Adán Briones. Serving as honorary pallbearers: Charles Medina, Michael Sullivan, Jacob Salcido, Freddy Salcido, Jim Voronin, Joey Fierro. Visitation will be held at Martin Funeral Home East on Wednesday, August 12, with a private family viewing from 4:00-5:00 p.m., a public viewing from 5:00-9:00 p.m., and a celebration of life and eulogies from 7:00-9:00 p.m. A final farewell service will take place for the family and will be held at Martin on Thursday, August 13, at 10:00 a.m. In honor of Daniel, the family asks that all who attend services wear masks and adhere to strict social distancing protocols. They will accept elbow and fist bumps but ask that everyone refrain from hugging. A virtual stream of the celebration of life and eulogies is available at: https://www.martinfuneralhomeeast.com Services under the direction of Martin Funeral Home East located at 1460 George Dieter Dr. (915-855-8881). “Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.” (Unknown Author)
FAMILY
- Erika Morales, Wife
- Francisco J. Morales, Father
- Minerva Morales, Mother
- Dominik Jason Morales, Son
- Danika Jaqueline Morales, Daughter
- Daniella Julissa Morales, Daughter
- Desiree Jordan Morales, Daughter
- Amanda Michell Morales, Sister
- Christopher David Morales, Brother
Services
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Visitation
Wednesday, August 12, 2020
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Prayer Service
Wednesday, August 12, 2020
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Funeral Service
Thursday, August 13, 2020
Memories
Daniel Jason Morales
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYJake Furgerson
November 12, 2020
I never met Daniel, but I had the great privilege of having his dad Mr. M as my wood shop teacher in high-school. He started me down the path I'm currently on. My heart goes out to the family and I pray that God comforts this family and gives them peace as they grieve the loss of Daniel.
Monica Lewis
August 14, 2020
My deepest condolences to Danny’s wife, children and family. When I heard of this huge loss, I cried for days. If he touched my life so profoundly, I cannot imagine their pain. God is with you. Danny & I worked together in the CCU at SMC. We threw his first baby shower at work & there was nothing more exciting for him than being a father & husband. Second to that was his love for the world and caring nature. He always put others first. His sense of humor and smile is forever imprinted on my heart. Thank you for the love you gave our world.
Tracey Merworth
August 14, 2020
I met Danny when he was a graduate nurse and I was a clinical educator at a local hospital. I was impressed with him from the start. He was a loving and special human being and a GREAT nurse. I will miss his bear hugs and cute smile. Prayers arise for comfort during this difficult time.
Matthew 5:4: Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Stephanie Schulte
August 14, 2020
I remember Danny when he started nursing at Sierra as a new nurse. What can I say that has not already been said? He was such a wonderful, smart, kind gentle soul. His smile and bear hugs will be missed deeply! You are soaring with angels now my friend - my deepest condolences to your family. My heart hurts for them because I only saw a glimpse of your wonderful soul and they lived it everyday! To a fabulous human being and a fabulous nurse - you rock my friend, until meet again !
Francisco Provencio Jr
August 14, 2020
We became friends in nursing school. We always seemed to be on Good Samaritan patrol when we hung out together back then. From pushing people in stranded cars or giving the heimlich maneuver to a choking person. It just happened to be that we were at the right place at the time. And you were not scared to jump right in and help.
Then life happened. You made it through nursing school and became a nurse. And eventually so did I after much struggle and hard work. You got married, bought a house, started our family, and jumped into our nursing career. As usual, and in late fashion, eventually so did I. But with nursing careers and family commitments we slowly lost touch. But still remained friends, running into each other many years later.
Danny thank you the gift of your friendship. I have a lot of wonderful memories hanging out with you. The numerous times we ate at the Grand China Buffet after finals, playing basketball against your brother Chris and family friend Angel at your parents house, or playing ball at Memorial Gym with classmates Hooper and Zavala. Or the time we flew to San Antonio for a student nurse's convention, or drove to Phoenix to catch a Dave Matthew's Band concert with you and your family. I have many fond memories.
I can see now, that you were loved by so many people. You were loved by your wife and kids, your family (your siblings & parents), your patients, and your nursing colleagues and physicians. You touched so many people's lives and were a shining light in their lives. I am sad to hear of your passing my friend. You were too young to be taken so soon. Things happen for a reason, even the bad times, even though we may not understand. There is a rhyme and a reason for everything. And everything in God's time. We just have to trust in God, his wisdom, and his plan for us. Even though I am sad that you are no longer physically present, I am comforted by the fact that you have joined God's heavenly kingdom, and are spiritually present.
Steve & Andrea Denton
August 13, 2020
Myself and my wife Andrea have had the pleasure of knowing Danny since he started as a nurse. The consensus amongst all is that no one could ever say anything bad about Danny. He was always a great coworker who became a friend to confide in. Throughout his career, I would see him and we would talk mainly about two passions we shared, family and football. We played in several FFL leagues together and with his great since of humor, his team was “The Kool Arrows”. Our deepest condolences go out to his family. He will be missed as one of the greatest compassionate men we have ever known.
Delia Grado
August 13, 2020
My heart has been heavy since hearing of DJ's passing. He was an incredible person and was everything everyone has said about him. So sweet. So polite. My best memory of DJ was when he was little and my mom had him standing on a chair and he was helping her wash clothes. They were both having a great time! Now they are both with our Precious Lord having an even better time. . . in a place where there are no tears, no pain fir God holds them now! (Delia Grado).
Demi Castrellon
August 13, 2020
I knew Danny in high school and we also went to nursing school together. He was the one who chose one of our songs- Coldplay’s The Scientist for graduation. He had always cared to see how I was and stopped to talk when I saw him at Sierra or UMC. He got to know my husband who is an ICU nurse at Providence. We had just talked about what the kids were going to do for spring break and he was eager for football to start again. Eveybody knew him and loved him. My thoughts are will Erica and his children as well as Mr. and Mrs. Morales, Chris and Mandy.
Bea Rivera
August 12, 2020
DJ was a Beautiful Soul he will be truly missed and will always be remembered .
Diane Anderson
August 12, 2020
I met Danny when he started working at Sierra. He was such a kind and thoughtful person. I have very fond memories of him. Danny always had a big smile on his face and just being around him would light up your day. I was shocked and deeply saddened to here of his passing. He is greatly missed. My deepest condolences to the Morales family.
Jennifer (Jenny) Armendariz
August 12, 2020
I had the pleasure of working side by side with Danny when he was working nights in CCU/ICU at Sierra Campus. He had a heart of an angel and was always so courteous and concerned with others. Our parents are most influential in the way we care for others. I thank Danny’s parents for doing a wonderful job raising their son. I hope time heals the heart of Danny’s family. God Bless all of you. Jenny Armendariz (fellow nurse who is going to miss him dearly) 💜🙏🌎
Lolin/Chuno Contreras
August 12, 2020
My Dear Cousin Frank, Minerva, Mandy and Chris, The magnitude of your loss is unimaginable! I am so, so sorry! My heart aches for you! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!! May God mend your broken hearts and may you find peace! Sending you my love!!
Lolin and Chuno
Dolores and Charles Angerstein
August 12, 2020
Daniel has impacted many lives beyond those he knew in person. He was so strong and brave. He will always be remembered and admired for being an example of courage. May God grant you peace and fill your hearts with precious memories of your beloved Daniel.
Daniel Tarango
August 12, 2020
I remember Daniel picking up his children from school they were always so excited to see him! I was saddened to hear he had passed. His dad Frank and I had served in the military and I had been to several parties and gatherings with the Family. My son and Dominic have known each other from Moreno for years now. We are all saddened and offer our sincerest condolences to all of Daniel's family.
Loretta Smith
August 12, 2020
My name is Loretta Smith (Acevedo).
Although I may not have known Daniel personally I am very close to his Aunt Priscilla and Brother David Castor. I can honestly say that I am proud of Daniel for all he did and gave. I know he chose a difficult but very rewarding career and the sacrifice to his fellow man will be rewarded in Heaven. May God Bless him, his beautiful wife Erika and their wonderful children and the entire Morales/Castor Family.
Arturo Chaparro
August 12, 2020
My prayers to u n ur Family prima!! Stay strong if there’s anything we could with we here for u!!!R.I.P DJ🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Erika Morales
August 11, 2020
I will love you always and forever ❤️😘
To the moon 🌙 and all the beautiful starts ✨
Erika Morales
August 10, 2020
I will love you always and forever ❤️😘
To the moon 🌙 and all the beautiful starts ✨
Maria Aguinaga
August 10, 2020
Rest In Peace DJ! Our Condolences to The Family. May Your Memories make Your Hearts alittle less Heavier. Vaya Con Dios DJ!! Aguinaga Family. ( Adan Briones Aunt and Family).
Carlos & Lourdes Aguilera
August 10, 2020
On behalf of our daughter Ayssa R.N., who knew Daniel and Erika; Carlos who worked with Frank at Guillen, Lourdes R.N. worked at Cordova/Armendariz with Minerva we are heartbroken and blessed to know the Morales family. God bless you all for you are in our daily prayers.
Melissa Alva Mier
August 9, 2020
Chris,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. I am sorry you and your family are experiencing the pain of a loss like this. My heart goes out to you and your family. I will keep you in my prayers.
Melissa Alva Mier
Jennifer Carrera
August 9, 2020
Rest in peace Danny. I had the great pleasure of working alongside you and the greatest honor to care for you in some of your last days on this earth. Your love for your family was so evidnet and many of our conversations were about them and their well being. May The Lord hold them close in the days ahead. You will be greatly missed! See you again in Glory!
Eli Martinez
August 8, 2020
To the Morales Family,
I want to extend my sincerest condolences to the family. Daniel was an awesome, kindhearted person who would give you the shirt off his back just like his parents and siblings. I had the opportunity to live with the Morales family for about 5 months many years ago and they were the warmest, nicest loving family one would know. Daniel always included me and made me feel like part of their loving family. I will always remember them for this. Though Daniel did indeed leave us too soon, he is resting now, pain free in God's paradise, as he watches over Erika, his children, his parents, siblings and all his family. Unfortunately I won't be able to make the services but I will be there in spirit. Love you all and God Bless the Morales family
Angelica Acosta
August 7, 2020
To Danny's family:
I wanted to write to let you know how Danny touched my life. I met Danny working ar Sierra. I was a physical therapist there and I often had to work in ICU. I would always be reassured when he was there, whether I was working with his patients or not. See, I had to be careful when moving patients due to some health issues. But I knew that if he was working in the unit all I had to do was ask and he would ALWAYS help me. Never did I get a rude response or a no from him. He was always calm and ready to help. I have worked with many nurses throughout my career. Many I have forgotten. Not him, he was just that kind of person. The kind that touches lives. I am truly sorry for your loss. I know he left you too soon. My prayers are with you and him. God Bless. 🙏
Candy Baker
August 7, 2020
I worked with Danny at Sierra. He was the perfect example of a caring nurse. I was always happy when I entered a room to find him as the RN. My condolences to his family and my heart aches too. God has a beautiful Angel.