Chris Daniel Obituary (1966 - 2024)

Chris Wesley Daniel, a devoted family man, proud Navy veteran, and skilled draftsman, passed away surrounded by love and cherished memories on December 21, 2024. He was born in Amarillo on March 26, 1966. Chris served his country with honor, in the Navy on the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier from 1986-1989. He cultivated a deep sense of camaraderie and adventure, sharing countless stories of his time at sea. A man of many passions, he found joy in mountain biking, camping, and boating with his children, creating lasting memories in the great outdoors. Chris was a 32nd Degree Freemason, a member of the Scottish Rite, and a dedicated Shriner, embodying the principles of brotherhood and service throughout his life. For 25 years, Chris poured his creativity and precision into designing homes across the Texas Panhandle as the owner and operator of American Traditions. He had an undeniable talent for turning visions into reality. In his younger years, Chris had a love for hot rods and a need for speed, embracing every moment with energy and enthusiasm. Later in life, Parkinson’s presented challenges, but his resilience and humor continued to shine through. Chris will be remembered not only for his achievements and passions but for his kind heart, generous nature, and the love he extended to neighbors and friends who became family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the stories he leaves behind. He was preceded in death by his father, Alton Wesley Daniel. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Franka Daniel; his mother, Janet Daniel; his children, a daughter, Marlene Smith and husband Jordan, and a son, Austin Daniel and wife Elizabeth, all of Amarillo. He is also survived by one precious grandson, Raylan Smith. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2024, at Hillside Christian Church- Amarillo Northwest Campus, 600 Tascosa Road. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Llano Cemetery East, located at the corner of 34th and Arthur Streets.