William "Bill" McDaniel

William “Bill” McDaniel passed away peacefully on 03/27/2026. Bill is survived by his daughter Genevieve Czopek, his son Brian McDaniel, and his sister, Jacqueline (Gene) Bell and family. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Olen “Virgil” McDaniel and Agnes Gadus, as well as his brothers- David McDaniel & James “Jim” McDaniel, and sister, Barbara Mascsak.

The Catholic faith was a large part of Bill’s childhood. He attended Holy Rosary Grade School and served in many of the daily masses. He would share stories of his time in class with the nuns and could even recite some of the Latin mass up until his last days. Bill graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School in 1967. While there he found his love of the theater. He continued on to attend the University of Toledo to pursue an undergraduate degree. While there he took part in multiple plays and was a member of the Pershing Rifles. Later on in life he would revisit the stage with the Village Players.

While at Cardinal Stritch Bill met his future wife, Helen Baumgartner. Together they had 2 children Brian Vincent and Genevieve Marie. In his own words, “Brian and Genny are my greatest accomplishment.” He was always passionate but when it came to his children, there was no end to his love. Bill passed on his love of learning and the written word to both. Brian will always remember him saying “The more you know, the more there is to know.” Gen remembers him saying “Always ask why and never stop.”

Bill’s career path spanned a variety of companies and vocations. From ice cream truck driver to catering with style, he brought something intrinsically his own to each position. The one career that he was particularly proud of was owning his own business – Genevieve Fine Jewelry. When he was laid off from Chrysler, Bill took the opportunity to chase a dream. He opened Genevieve Fine Jewelry and was able to use his creativity and showmanship to make many people happy. After Genevieve Fine Jewelry, Bill used his love for wine and spirits to become a certified mixologist, and then a caterer for Gladieux Catering. Through all the different roles, one thing was always the same. No matter what role he was playing, he would do so with charm, humor, a flourish and focus on excellence.

Bill’s passions included sailing, history, literature, and politics. He loved to learn and was fascinated by new knowledge. When he found an interest he jumped in with both feet. After discovering sailing he not only bought a boat he also joined the Hobie Cat Fleet 400 and learned how to race. Brian and Gen still remember the fun had while riding on the bananas (the yellow boat hulls).

He was a storyteller and would love to share with others what he had learned and experienced. He would make up fanciful stories using life as the base to build upon. Frank, his talkative Siamese, became the star of many to amuse himself and others.

A memorial in his honor will be held at Newcomer Funeral home on Laskey Rd. The family is grateful for all the love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Hospice of Northwest Ohio.