Dennis Julian McDaniel, age 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. He was born August 12, 1934, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, to loving parents James and Genevieve (Studor) McDaniel.
Dennis lived a remarkable life, characterized by his dedication to family, service to his country, and commitment to his community. He honorably served in the United States military, both in the Marine Corps for one year and in the Navy for an additional two years before his honorable discharge in 1963. As a cadet commander during flight training at Whiting Field in 1958, he displayed leadership and commitment that would resonate throughout his life.
Dennis pursued an education at Purdue University for two years before embarking on an extensive career at Goodyear Atomic Energy, now known as US Energy Systems, where he dedicated 30 years of his life working in Piketon, Ohio.
Beyond his career, Dennis was a man of many talents and interests. He gained recognition in high school as a drum major from 1950 to 1952. His character shone brightly over the years as a caring neighbor and community member in Crookston, where he was known for his generosity in undertaking yard work and snow removal for elderly citizens and others in need. He will be remembered not only for these acts of kindness but also for his unwavering love for his family and deep sense of patriotism.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 44 years, Adrienne (Russell) McDaniel; his children, James McDaniel, Hannah Brown; grandchildren, Donnelly Fuglseth, Dominick Herda; and other beloved family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Genevieve McDaniel, and sister, Margo Diehl.
Dennis’s legacy will continue through his family and friends, who remember him as an honorable citizen and a steadfast patriot, always dedicated to helping others and serving his community with compassion and respect.
A memorial service celebrating Dennis’s life will be held at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home in Crookston, Minnesota on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation with family will be one hour prior. The service will be livestreamed, details to which will be available at www.stenshoelhouske.com/obituaries/dennis-mcdaniel
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