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Mel Daniels
1944 - 2015
Mel Daniels
1944 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1944
DIED
2015
Mel Daniels Obituary
The 6 ft. 9 in. center was a two-time MVP as he led the Indiana Pacers to three ABA championships in the 1970s. He was also the first first-round NBA draft pick to opt to play for the newer American Basketball Association. He won the first ABA Rookie of the Year in 1968 for the Minnesota Muskies before being traded to the Pacers.
Over the course of the next six seasons he averaged over 15 rebounds a game on his way to becoming the all-time rebound leader of the ABA. He briefly played for the New York Nets in 1976 after the two leagues merged.
After retiring as a player he joined the coaching staff of Indiana State and coached future NBA great Larry Bird. Daniels then returned to the Pacers in 1986 and served as the team's Director of Player Personnel until 2009.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. He is also one of four players to have his number retired by the Indiana Pacers.
Born in Detroit he played basketball for Pershing High School and later played college basketball at New Mexico University.
Daniels had recently undergone heart surgery.
He is survived by his wife, CeCe.
89 Entries
VALENDA NEWELL
July 2, 2016
I want to offer my sincere condolences on the loss of MEL. He was a great basketball player and I know he is truly missed by the fans. Everytime I go a PACER game you will always be in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest sympathies to your family and friends....MANY MANY BLESSINGS
Christine Hoff
November 4, 2015
Great Story Teller. Great Big Hugs. Wonderful Laugh. You will be missed my friend
Karen E. Sutton
November 1, 2015
My deepest sympathy for your loss. The world has lost a great man. May he RIP.
Doris Willard
November 4, 2015
Our sincere condolences to the Daniel's family on the passing of Mel Daniels. May he RIP.
UNM Black Alumni Chapter
Albuquerque, New Mexico
How you can show support
Jay Ard & Debra Endres-Ard
December 16, 2015
We are sorry and deeply saddened by your family's tremendous loss. Please know you are being held close in thought and prayer during this painfully difficult time. Sending our heartfelt condolences and many hugs for all.
carolyn
November 7, 2015
To the Family,
I am sorry for your loss. May our god of comfort be a stronghold for your family.
November 7, 2015
Mel Daniels was a good player. He truly made a name for himself through his hard working career. Please accept my sincere sympathy for the loss of your loved one. May the God of all comfort and love, strengthen you and grant you the inner peace to help you endure during this difficult moments your are dealing with. May all the good times you all had together, be always cherished.
November 5, 2015
My friends and I were devoted ABA Pacer fans. Section 7 in the fairgrounds colisem was where we were many a night. What wonderful wonderful times those were. RIP Roger Brown and Mel Daniels. You will be missed , but never forgotten.
Morris & Kathleen Howard
November 5, 2015
Please accept our sincere sympathy with the passing of Big Mel.
We will never forget him, his love of the game & the buckets of fun he gave to The ABA... Real BALLERS.
THANK YOU Mel, CeCe & Family.
Amelia Cuda
November 5, 2015
I was a basketball kid fan in the 70's. I grew up hearing about how wonderful Mel Daniels was with the Pacers. Mel Daniels will be love, miss and thought of as a lifetime Pacer. Mel was peanut butter to pacer jam. My prayers are with his family, pacers and fellow fans.
Renee Rudisill-Grundy
November 5, 2015
Dear Cece. New Mexico will miss it's favorite son. All Mel's UNM friends and fans
join me in extending our
deepest sympathy to you and your family. Mel was
loved by many but will be
missed by more. You are in our prayers.
RON WILSON
November 5, 2015
One of the Greats. I spent time with Mel while he was in Junior College in Burlington Iowa. Fierce competitor, kind heart, good friend.
Ron J Wilson (Kansas City)
November 5, 2015
Mel, God Bless you and may God Bless Ce Ce and drown her sorrow in this time of mourning. Your memory will live on in our hearts. I will never forget the memories of you matching up against Zelmo Beatty, and the likes of Artis Gilmore and beating them to the bucket or out rebounding them. My memories of you and the ABA will be everlasting. I served as a Ball Boy or Junior Pacer and you made me feel like one of the guys. Such a gentle giant but one whom I would want to got to battle with me. So rest in peace as I know God has prepared you a place in his Kingdom in Heaven.
Billy Moore. (Greenwood, In.)
Jamie (Chapman) Jarrell
November 5, 2015
Mel was a lifelong friend thru horses. Sure going to miss him cheering on the sidelines. Feel very blessed to have known such a Wonderful man! My kids adored him! Its been many many years CeCe! Thoughts and Prayers to all.
the Nicoson family
November 5, 2015
Thank U Mel for all the momorales of being a Pacer fan while overseas in Korea cheering U guys to ABA championships and keeping the Pacers to the foundation it is now. U were my Dad's FAV player because U played great ALL THE TIME not like so many today
November 5, 2015
Mel thanks for the great trips and memories.
LW
This was at the 2012 NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet Branch #3053
Sandra Parker
November 4, 2015
I admired Mel Daniels not just as a player but as someone who cared for his community and fellow players. thanks for his support of the NAACP.
Sandra Parker
Cynthia Winstead
November 4, 2015
Mel, thank you for taking our girls under your wing; sharing advice, encouragement, a lot of laughs and even a little tough love. :-) What you may not know is, your impact went far beyond the arena. You were talking horses but teaching life. We'll miss your deep laugh and booming voice. Just like you would yell as rider and horse rounded the barrels... 'Go ahead on' and head home.
Love, Your Hendricks County Barrel Crew
Tina Collins
November 4, 2015
GOD is with you during this extremely painful time. His LOVE never fails.
Thank you "Big Mel" Cee Cee & family for sharing your love of the game with us. Thank you for the (FAN)tastic ABA memories.
LOVE Never Fails...
November 4, 2015
CeCe
Like many people we were saddened to hear of Mel,passing. We will be thinking of you. The Stemaly Family
Keith Griffith
November 4, 2015
CeCe, So sad to hear of Mel's passing. As he did with so many people he helped a young basketball player from Spencer Indiana grow up as a player and a man in Johnson Gym and then the "Pit". It seems like yesterday we were at Coach Bob Kings funeral in the "Pit" Mel was as gracious as always. I am a better person for having had Mel in my life.
Andrea D.
November 4, 2015
You will be terribly missed, but your words will be forever remembered. You were a fantastic man who always knew the right thing to say. Thank you for being you. God Bless.
Laura Bade Limbach
November 4, 2015
Thank you Mel Daniels for creating treasured memories for me as a high school girl who loved going to the Coliseum and watching our ABA Pacers.
Peace to all........
Lydia Sims
November 4, 2015
Our prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. He contributed much to his family, his friends and to the game he loved so much.
Mike Tiger Price
November 4, 2015
God bless CeCe and the sweet memory of a Hall of Fame person who has gone to Heaven. The 2015 Detroit Sports Zone High School Hall of Fame and Mr & Mrs. Mike Tiger Price are saddened by your loss but reflect positively on Mel Daniels' legacy of excellence to Indianapolis and the global NBA fans.
Tina Darling
November 4, 2015
To the Daniels family: Going to Pacers games at the Coliseum when I was a kid is more than just fond memories. Mel and the ABA Championship Pacers of the early 70s were my heroes. No one has played the game better before or since. To this day, I cannot watch present-day pro basketball because it just doesn't match up to what I saw from those guys. So Mel - thanks for the memories, vaya con Dios! With sincere condolences to the Daniels family.
Walt Owens
November 3, 2015
This man laid the foundation for the great Pershing High School legacy! Walt
K Boyer
November 3, 2015
May your family fine peace and comfort from our heavenly Father, sorry to hear of Mel's passing,he was and is a great guy, he was known personally by family members( servicing him at their jobs) spoke highly of you, you are missed by many but know you are watching over us all family and friends,,,,, RIP. Good Buddy
Cheryl Dukes
November 3, 2015
Mel Daniels taught me enthusiastically about the Black cowboys, raising horses, poetry, basketball and most importantly how to be a good friend. My condolences to his family AND to myself. My throat is hurting from the big lump in it. I know when the good Lord calls you, you have to go, but Mel - this is the one time I wish you really could get back to us "as expeditiously as possible".
D G
November 3, 2015
You will be missed but always in my heart
Dr. David Snead
November 3, 2015
Mel Daniels is and was an outstanding representative of the Detroit Pershing and surrounding community. Peace be with him and his family.
Jay
November 3, 2015
You and the original Pacers were so great for Indianapolis. You will be missed. Blessings
November 3, 2015
Mel will be missed by many in the sports world and in the horse world. He had a kind soul. I'll never forget the beautiful poem that he wrote in memory of his friend, and my brother-in-law, Lee Elliott. Rest in peace, Mel. I bet the barrels always stay up and the horses run fast in Heaven!
Ramona Ellion
November 3, 2015
Marty
November 2, 2015
So sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one Mel. May it bring comfort knowing that God cares and will remember our loved ones as promised in the Holy Writing at Hosea 13:14, "From the hand of Sheol I shall redeem them from death I shall recover them - Where is your sting O Death...compassion itself will be concealed from my eyes".
Carolyn Gordon
November 2, 2015
Loved and highly respected this man. Cece may God be with you.
V H
November 2, 2015
Our prayers go out to the Family and Friends of Mel Daniels. From the looks and the history of Mel Daniels he was a very good basketball player and friend to many. Cherish the many fond memories that you have stored up with each of you. May God Almighty continue to all of you the needed strength, courage but most of peace of mind to deal with this journey. Isa. 41:10, 13
King family
November 2, 2015
May the God of tender mercy (Psalms 83:18) grant the family peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.
Eric Reinking
November 2, 2015
Thanks for the childhood memories at The Coliseum that are priceless, and for being a role model. RIP and bless your survivors.
November 2, 2015
The family has my deepest sympathy for your loss. We have the gift of memory that our Creator has given us. Remember all the good times and allow that to help you get through this difficult time.
Bob and Donna Griffith
November 2, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
November 2, 2015
Dear CeCe:
Mel Daniels was a good player. He truly made a name for himself with his hard work of his career. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss. May the God of all comfort and love, strengthen you and grant you the inner peace to endure your loss, while you cherishes the good moments Mel enjoyed with all of you.
Robert Webb
November 2, 2015
RIP Melvin ... And thank you for all the memories, I was a 17 year old kid who would sneak into old Johnson gym on the UNM campus and watch you Ben Monore Bill Morgan, Ron Sanford, Howie Grimes and Ron Nelson. Melvin you were a man among boys. The best ever to play for UNM. I will forever remember those glory days.
November 2, 2015
CeCe and family, my condolences and prayers are with you. Even though, Mel not part of my biological family he was still my family; I enjoyed him on the court and off the court.
Delores Mundy, an ABA fan.
Barbara Hoff-Hey
November 2, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
J
November 2, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dorothy Jordan-Brown
November 2, 2015
Mel, to say you'll be greatly missed is an understatement. You not only mentored for the game of basketball. You also mentored on the game of life. THANK YOU, very much. God has blessed you.
Dorothy Jordan-Brown
Dick Pardue
November 1, 2015
Thank you Mel and CC
For being a friend and influence on my children!
Dick Pardue
November 1, 2015
My condolences to your family during this time of grief.
Faith/Rory Tobin/Dockett
November 1, 2015
Dear Daniels Family mine and rory's condolences's on the passing of Mel Daniels.he'll surely be missed.luv,Faith/Rory
Suzie Davidson
November 1, 2015
Mel will be missed by his barrel racing family in Hendricks County. Thank you, Mel, for unselfishly sharing your knowledge with the girls. They loved and respected you.
Maria Prado
November 1, 2015
Que JESUS te resiva en el cielo..Descanse en paz..Amigo te voy a extrañar..Gracias por tu amistad y tu alegría..
Harry Simpson
November 1, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
November 1, 2015
Thanks for the memories. Your kindness and passion in helping others will always be remembered.
Martin Sebastiav
Jimmie Guymon
November 1, 2015
I grew up in Albuquerque when Mel played at the University. He was an inspiration to me and transformed the basketball program from a few hundred people watching to thousands. He was a great player and a great man.
Malinda Kinkead bundy
October 31, 2015
I will never forget the time he came into Kmart on 421 and a little boy about 6 saw him Mel just put his little smile on and hung out at the jewelry counter. The young boy trying to tell his mom who he was and her comment why is it every time you see a tall black man you think he is famous. My mom and dad lived out by Mel and I had been to his house with my dad. So I told the lady her son was right it was a pacer or he used to be it was Mel Daniels a true legend and I was sure if he ask for his autograph he would be happy to give it. Mel hearing the conversation just winked at me and found a pen I will never forget that day I was in my 20 at the time and am now54 he was so proud when people new who he was a very gentle giant and a true legend His family should be very proud of him I think God needed him on his team now miss u gentle giant
October 31, 2015
My condolences to Mel's family. Many awesome memories and fun times. He will be greatly missed.
Brenda
October 31, 2015
My condolences to the Daniels family. May the God who gives peace be with all of you and help you through this difficult time.
[email protected] Haddox
October 31, 2015
Rest easy in heaven Mel, and may ur family and friends hearts heal in God's Speed, and may God's tender mercy and grace be upon us all at this very sad time.
Penny Millikan
October 31, 2015
Cece, Sorry to hear about the passing of Mel. Growing up and staying with our great aunt Annie and our uncle Peas. Who were your neighbors. We got to know the both of you. He was such a humble man. Sympathy to you Tammy and Penny Millikan
David Joseph
October 31, 2015
Mel was my all time favorite Indiana Pacer I loved watching him play I was so saddened to hear he had passed away may he rest in peace and god grant him eternal rest you will be missed.
Anita
October 31, 2015
So sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of seeing Mel play when I was a kid. A true hero on and off the court. RIP
Janet Chi
October 31, 2015
As his family and friends mourn the loss of Mel Daniels may he be remembered by his undoubtly talents with the basketball. May you also have confidence that God note your suffering and promises to heal those who are suffering from broken hearts. Ps 147:3
Mercy R.
October 31, 2015
My heartfelt sympathies to the Daniels family. May God give you strength, as you reflect on His promise to do away with sickness and death (Isiah 33:24 & 25:8).
October 31, 2015
we will miss hearing your voice at the indiana barrel racing horse shows prayers for ur family Jimmy,Rhonda Bryant and family
October 31, 2015
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:76.
Don
October 31, 2015
My condolence to the family "John 5:28 and 29".
October 31, 2015
My sincerest sympathy. May the God of all comfort strengthen your family during this time of sorrow. Those who die God keeps in his memory because he cares, they are precious in his eyes. Psalms:116:15
October 31, 2015
God is our refuge and strength a help that is readily found at a time of need.
October 31, 2015
To the family of Mel Daniels. My condolences to your family. May the God (Ps.83:18) of comfort grant you peace during this difficult time.
Erv Inniger
October 31, 2015
Mel was a Muskie teammate the first year of the ABA. He was the franchise player not only on the floor but off the floor. He was a Champion in every aspect and remained that way until the end. A salute to one of the all time best. Erv Inniger
E Brewer
October 31, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 31, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 31, 2015
May it be s comfort to know that God as well as others care and wish you peace.
October 31, 2015
Love AlwaysRest InPeace , I remember working with your Mom,When you were In College in Mexico, She Love You Dearly, we Are Next Door Neighbors on McDougal, St. In Detroit in 1965, Your Family have All My Prayers And Blessing, I remember when you and CeCe, got Married
Your Nephew, Ba Ba, Son, First Cousin
Helen Oliver Richie
October 31, 2015
Rest InPeace , I remember working with your Mom,When you were In College in Mexico, She Love You Dearly, we Are Next Door Neighbors on McDougal, St. In Detroit in 1965, Your Family have All My Prayers And Blessing, I remember when you and CeCe, got Married
Sean
October 31, 2015
I thank u for giving my cousin Reggie Miller a good time with the pacers and may the God of comfort be with you.
JA
October 31, 2015
Sorry for your loss. Grief can be hard, but the love from family and friends can help you cope.
John Cutter
October 31, 2015
Thanks for being a good friend. You will be missed. My sympathy to the family on your loss.
Tammy Davis
October 31, 2015
My condolences go out to the family.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
October 31, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
October 31, 2015
Sorry to read about the loss of your
loved one. May God bless you and your
family and may He provide peace and
comfort for you at this difficult time.
October 30, 2015
My heart aches but is full with beautiful memories of our friendship. Thank you. For being you. Michelle C.
Rich Hadley
October 30, 2015
Thanks for being a special influence and contributor to Indy Sports over the years.
You were loved by many. God's peace and comfort to your Family.
Terry Daniels
October 30, 2015
i worked for the Indiana Pacers as a kid and became friends with Mel, he is a good man and fun to hang out with.I always told him we was distant cousins because we shared the same last name God bless you Mel you live forever in my heart
Phil Williams
October 30, 2015
Lifelong Pacer fan. Earliest Pacer memory was a playoff game I attended in late 60s/early 70s w/ my grandparents at the old Colesium(?) vs.Utah Jazz and Zelmo Beatty. Mel has a huge game, Pacers win. Class act, always a favorite. Rest in Peace Big Guy
Lenard Robison
October 30, 2015
thank you for being a great friend
Gwen Hoskins
October 30, 2015
You made Indiana proud , and will forever be in our hearts and in our minds, as one of the baddest in the sport Sir. Rest from your labor.
October 30, 2015
May the God of all comfort be with you all at this time.
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