'Cherished': Former Circuit Court Judge Daniel remembered as skilled, community-minded
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. − Former Judge of Tippecanoe County Court Circuit, Donald Daniel, has died at the age of 76.
Daniel served as Circuit Court judge from 2003 to 2014. In addition to his role as a judge, Daniel also regularly worked with Food Finders Food Bank, the American Red Cross, Legal Aid Corp., the Tippecanoe County Mental Health Association and the Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program, according to his obituary.
“Don’s underdog victory in the 2002 election was a testament to his commitment to serving his community," Steve Klink, a leader in Daniel's campaign and friend for over 40 years, said. "He had a quick wit and a great sense of humor, and I always cherished our friendship. He was a skilled lawyer and judge, but he never lost sight of what really mattered: his family and his community.”
Daniel was born and raised in West Lafayette. He loved golf, the Chicago Cubs and Bears and Purdue Boilermaker basketball and football. He was also heavily involved with local music via his school bands, including the Purdue University All-American Marching Band, the Lafayette Citizen's Band and in Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes.
Daniel graduated from Purdue with a degree in political science in 1969, where he continued his education in law school at IUPUI. He earned his law degree in 1973 and passed the Bar Exam in 1974. Daniel practiced a solo law practice for 27 years.
A celebration of life for Daniel will be held at a to-be-determined date in Tippecanoe County. Arrangements are under the direction of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.
Margaret Christopherson is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email her at mchristopherson@jconline.com and follow her on Twitter @MargaretJC2.
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: 'Cherished': Former Circuit Court judge, West Lafayette native has died
