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Daniel Middleton Obituary

Officer Daniel Nelson Middleton, 28 of Superior passed away November 23, 2004. Born in Iowa in 1975, his family moved to Gilbert in 1987. Daniel was a Law Enforcement Officer for the past 8 years. Most recently for the Town of Superior. He is survived by his parents Ron and Rebecca Emary. His sisters Shawntel Cooney and husband Todd; Kristina Sutherland and husband Adam; and Stephanie Middleton. Nephews Shane, Shawn, and Brandon: uncles,
Doug Stivers, and wife Joan, Donnie Stivers and wife Kim Marie aunt Barbara Stivers, and numerous other family members, friends, and co-workers. Daniel had two passions in life, being a police officer and his family. He was deeply loved, and will always be missed. He was a very strong and proud officer, who's death has left many wondering why? Daniel not only left behind family and friends, but he left behind many who respected and cherished the man he was. We will always love and cherish the special time we had with you Daniel. A viewing will be held for family and friends Friday, November 26, 2004 from 7pm – 9pm at Allen Funeral Home, 1130 S. Horne Mesa, AZ (480) 833-1716. A Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 10:30am at Chandler Christian Church 1825 S. Alma School Rd Chandler, AZ.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Nov. 25, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Middleton

Sponsored by Ron & Rebecca Emary.

Not sure what to say?





Chris

November 19, 2024

I miss my best friend

Chris Garcia

November 19, 2023

Miss u buddy

Rebecca

March 19, 2023

Woke up this morning thinking of you about how much I love and miss you everyday.

Chris Garcia

November 19, 2022

After all these years I still miss you my friend

Chris Garcia

November 19, 2021

You r missed my friend

Francine

May 6, 2021

My Deputy Director came in today and he mentioned he was from Iowa. I started telling him about the couple of visits I made out that way years ago... talking about corn and the cold. When he left I sat down with a smile on my face thinking of so many good memories. Then I looked up and there was the picture of you and Tana looking back at me. Made my smile even bigger and brighter... oh how I love and miss you both, but I'm grateful for the time I was blessed with.

Francine

November 23, 2020

Every year from the evening of the 22nd to evening of the 23rd. I tell myself I can do this. It doesn't get easier but you can learn how to deal with time. "Deal with it... Breath!". Every year I feel like there is a semi on my chest...it hurts to move and breath and I'm fighting back tears every 30 seconds trying not to break down in front people who have no idea what is going on inside. You are still so loved and I pray you don't see us hurting and missing you but that you are in paradise without a care in the world loving on Tana and Hunter!!

Ron

November 19, 2020

Big Dan and Tana!

Chris Garcia

November 19, 2020

You are missed my friend

Chris Garcia

November 19, 2019

You are gone but never forgotten

Chris Garcia

September 9, 2016

I miss you my friend

July 10, 2015

I miss you... so much!!!

May 1, 2015

Hey I miss you uncle dan -love brandon

November 23, 2014

10 yrs ago my world fell to pieces and changed like I never thought it would. I still think of you everyday! Its so hard not to think about what might have been... Love you always and always!!

June 27, 2014

I would like to think you are looking down at me and you are proud of me for handing myself the way I did today. I miss you... and today when I needed strenght I thought of you and I got it! You are my angel in blue! Love you and miss you so much!!

Fred Murrieta

June 2, 2014

Middleton I see your picture at my house every day. I think about you a lot and you were like a son to me. I'm glad you didn't suffer, I was on the call and I pray you have a safe journey and have fun up there with your family.

June 1, 2014

Hi my friend I wish you where here I miss buddy.

Payton Murrieta

May 13, 2014

I keep thinking about the time you took time out of your day to bring me an AMP energy drink to my track practice and threw it over that really tall fence haha... I miss you right now and wonder what life would've been like if I you didn't leave us, or if I would have gone with you that evening to Kearny.. I Love You Brother

Chris Garcia

January 20, 2014

Hello my best friend things are not the same without you I miss you.

rebecca Emary

December 20, 2013

Hope you are celebrating!

December 19, 2013

Happy Birthday brother, hope you get caked in heaven love you!!!!!

Jim Wilson

December 19, 2013

Happy birthday old man!

December 19, 2013

Happy Birthday Buddy!!

October 31, 2013

Sometimes I start to miss you during the day and I come here to see that innocent smiling baby face! I know you were anything but INNOCENT! Lol!! It makes me smile back at you and my day is a better day! Love you Always!!

Payton Murrieta

August 31, 2013

Thinking about you tonight made me cry. Still cant believe how someone with such an impact on everyones life that you touched can just be taken away in the blink of an eye. I love you brother and miss you

March 17, 2013

Happy St. Patty's Day... Loves!!

Payton Murrieta

January 26, 2013

I still remember playing outside in the yard, your truck was parked right outside the fence. You asked me if I wanted to go with you to kearny to get your new stereo or speakers put it in I think I can't exactly remember what. You were so excited to come back and show us,after you got them, but of course I had to ask my mom haha.. she wouldn't let me because I had school in the morning. I don't like the fact that I was the last in superior to see you.. that next morning at school was one of the most painful times in my life. Getting called to the office, I was at the top of the hall walking down, and as I got closer to the bottom doors I could see my mom n dad trying to hold my sister still as she screamed.. that's when I knew.. I Love you Daniel, and I wish I could hit you in the stomach again because I knew it was your weak spot:)... Miss you big brother

Rebecca Emary

December 31, 2012

Your grandfather is with you now take care of him. I love you and think iof you everyday. I miss you very much.

December 30, 2012

Sometimes it feels as if time has stood still and you just left us... but that's only the pain of losing you.

Chris Garcia

June 7, 2012

I miss you my friend.

David Hutton

May 29, 2012

Dan you are the big brother I never had and always wanted. Thank you for that. You are missed and thought about always.
I LOVE YOU BRO!!!

David Hutton

May 29, 2012

Dan you are the big brother I never had and always wanted. Thank you for that. You are missed and thought about always.
I LOVE YOU BRO!!!

rebecca emary

December 18, 2011

tommorow is your bday i love you so much i wish i could hug you and tell you i love you.
love mom

Ron

November 23, 2011

I Miss you more than ever....

November 22, 2011

If I could go back 7 years today... Even though it hurts... I'm still so very grateful for the time I did have. Love you and Miss you!

Payton Murrieta

September 2, 2011

I really wish I could go back to the last time I saw you. I believe I was the last in superior to see you before you left us. I love you my big brother. Long as I Live.

Chris Garcia

July 3, 2011

Hello my friend ,you were like my little brother I do miss you ,I wish we had time to talk once again ,just that you are missed very much.

rebecca emary

February 1, 2011

I miss you every day.
Love you,
Mom

Jim Wilson

December 23, 2010

I still think about you everyday. Miss you bro...

I. Roseanne Service

December 22, 2010

So much has happened this year but the holidays can't go by with out reminding us of you. I was running out the door today and grabbing for a sweater there your sweater was. I wondered what you were doing right that very second. I love you and think of you always.

December 19, 2010

Happy Birthday

Andrea Robles

November 23, 2010

Well another year has passed and I can't believe it's been six years... I stop and think of all the great memories we had and it seems like they were just yesterday. You are truly missed and will always be in our hearts.

Eva Arriola Cisneros

October 9, 2010

Daniel I miss u an wish u could still be here with us today its so hard to understand why u had to go u r in a better place. I think of u an remember all the fun times Melodi Payton an I had with u We miss u <3

Wallace Kenney

September 27, 2010

Well, lets see I miss the good times we had working the mean streets for Superior. But most of all I miss a good friend. See you later.

Melodi Murrieta

September 26, 2010

There are days where I miss you more than ever. I wish I had you here to talk to. I could use a big teddy bear hug right about now. Losing you still feels like yesterday but I know your still here with me in some way. I hope you are one of the faces I see first when it comes my time. love you teddy!

Payton Murrieta

September 25, 2010

i miss my brother i dont even know what to say i miss you too much to even think.

Melodi Murrieta

August 18, 2010

Hi teddy.well I can truely say that no matter how long its been...my heart still hurts. There are times like today that I wish you were here. There are songs,pictures, and stories of you and I stuck in my head. I know It will always be like this and thats whats hard to handle, but your in a wonderful place now. I just wish you were here to talk to about my troubles and triumphs. I love you and miss you so much.

June 25, 2010

Just thinking about you...

I. Roseanne Service

December 29, 2009

Wow, this year has gone by so fast, but it can't be over until I say Happy Birthday! I hope it was a fun one talking with family and loved ones who are already with you. I want you know I always stop to think of you in November and December. Bonnie's wedding was on your birthday and I wasn't sure how to feel about that. Jim was there and he knew it was your birthday too. You probably had no idea how many lives you touched. I know that as time passes on it's easy to forget but just know I will never forget you!!! I love you and miss you!

mom

December 3, 2009

Daniel
Time has came and gone and it seems like forever since you left. Whenyou get too far away from me I close my eyes and remember our last hug and the words you spoke to me. I can still feel your arms around me iam so greatful for that. Many days I am blessed with your jokes and the memory of your childhood and your adult life. but there are many days still filled with tears. I pray often to our Lord to care for your soul. I feel I will be blessed the day I return home with you. My love for you could fill an eternity Love mom

November 19, 2009

I can't believe it has been almost 5 years since you were taken from us so suddenly. Just know I still think of you all the time and you will be happy to know I keep in contact with your family. I love them like they were my own. You are missed dearly and I miss you and love you!

Tanya Turck

Melodi Murrieta

May 6, 2009

hey there babe! just thinking about all of the memories we had together. I really miss you and some days are worse than others. I can still feel you around me sometimes. I wish you could see your nephews and how they are growing up. Just looking into little daniels eyes reminds me so much of you. I love you Teddy! I wish I could just see you again, but I know I will when my time comes. sending ya kisses.

I. Roseanne Service

December 19, 2008

Happy Birthday Daniel!

Andrea Robles

December 17, 2008

Another year has passed and another Birthday has come and gone (Happy Birthday). I still can't believe it's been four years... I stop and think of all the great memories and it seems like you were here yesterday but then there are times when it feels like you have been gone forever. We all miss you and you will always be in our hearts.

I. Roseanne Colvin Service

November 24, 2008

It's been 4 years, you are still loved and missed! I live my life each day aware of it's fragility because of you. I enjoy my life's journey in your name.

rebecca emary

November 23, 2008

We just attended Daniels 4th memorial service at the crash site. Father Francis said a blessing and it was very special for all of us in attendance. We continue to think of him daily and will never quit missing him.To all of his friends and family thank you for your calls and well wishes. Rebecca and Ron

I. Roseanne Service

April 8, 2008

Daniel,
I just had to stop my busy day and reflect a moment on how much you are missed. You help me to remember that life is so short and to enjoy my journey. I think about all the fun memories and at the time I didn't see much fun in them till I look at it now. You made me and Kristina laugh even when we wanted to really be mad at you. Were you ever intimidated by anything? (other than Ron...he he) You just seemed so brave and completely invincible. I really miss you a lot!

Mark Doland

March 29, 2008

I have been thinking often of Daniel, my cousin. I remember many times at family gatherings how we would play together as well as Jared our other cousin. We all wanted to be police officers. Jared is now a Sargeant in the military and I am an evangelist in the church of Christ. God had different plans for all of our lives. I thank Him for the priviledge I had to know Daniel and be a part of his life, and he a part of mine.

Andrea Robles

November 22, 2007

I thought of you with love today.
But that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday,
And days before that too.

I think of you in silence,
I often speak your name
Now all I have is memories
And your picture in a frame

Your memory is my keepsake
With which I’ll never part
God has you in his keeping
I have you in my heart.

Gone but not forgotten.
You’re always in my heart.

I Miss You…

Melodi Murrieta

November 21, 2007

Hey hun... it been a while since you left us all, but it still feels like yesterday. I wish i could just have one more day with you. Just one more time in your teddy bear arms and to hear your voice. You are always on my mind, no matter what i am doing. i love you!!! and i hope you can hear my prayers at night to you. miss you!!!

Ann Garcia

August 4, 2007

We miss you daily. We miss the friend we could go talk to & laugh with. Your always in our hearts.

Francine

August 3, 2007

Just thinking about you......... I miss you..........

Tanya Turck

March 1, 2007

Daniel~

I really miss you and being able to call you and tell you about my day. You were always there for me no matter what. I know if you were still here we would be together and be happy together forever....I love you and miss you always~

Until we meet again....

FRANCINE GONZALES

December 19, 2006

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Francine Gonzales

November 22, 2006

It's been two years today! I know I have to let you go so you may rest. But I just don't know how! I'm still missing you every second.

rebecca emary

September 10, 2006

Daniel

It seems an eternity since you left. You are missed every moment.

Love mom

Chris Garcia

June 25, 2006

It has been some time since you left us but the pain doesnt get any easier we miss you.

Chris ,Brandon Garcia

FRANCINE

April 7, 2006

I STILL THINK OF YOU EVERYDAY, EVERY HOUR, EVERY MINUTE, EVERY SECOND. LOVE YOU!!!

FRANCINE GONZALES

December 19, 2005

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!, I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU!!!!!

Ron & Mom

November 23, 2005

It has been one year today since you left us. Somedays it feels like it has been only days, and others it seems like it has been ten years since I have seen you or talked with you on the phone. Words alone can not describe how much we all miss you. This past Sunday we had a memorial gathering in Superior, attended by many of your friends and family. The impact of your friendship with those you connected with in this life was so very evident. Altough we still mourn losing you, it is so important to remember everything positive about you. Like your sense of humor, relentless picking, and the positive impact you had on people from being a police officer, as well as just being Dan. We all miss you very much!!!

MY ANGEL IN BLUE

FRANCINE GONZLAES

September 7, 2005

I MISS YOU!!!! MORE AND MORE EVERYDAY. NOTHING IS THE SAME AND IT HURTS. I MISS FIGHTING WITH YOU, SEEING YOU WALK THROUGH THE BACK DOOR, YOUR LITTLE SMILE THAT ALWAYS MADE EVERYTHING BETTER, AND THE JOKES THAT DROVE EVERYONE NUTS. BUT MOST OF ALL I MISS MY FRIEND THAT WAS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME NO MATTER WHAT, MY BETTER HALF IN LIFE. I COULD ALWAYS COUNT ON YOU WHEN I NEEDED YOU THE MOST. SO WHAT I'M I SUPPOSE TO DO NOW? EVERYDAY REALITY SITS IN A LITTLE MORE THAT YOU'VE GONE OFF TO A BETTER PLACE AND EVERYDAY IT'S HARDER TO UNDERSTAND WHY YOU WERE TAKEN SO FAST. I'M SORRY FOR ALL THE TIMES I GOT YOU MAD AND I'M SORRY FOR ALL THE TIMES I YELLED AT YOU. I WISH I WAS ABLE TO TELL YOU FACE TO FACE THAT NEVER ONCE DID I EVER STOP LOVING YOU.

I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU MORE THEN LIFE IT SELF.

Ricky Warren

August 22, 2005

Every day I take a moment to think about all the fun we had growing up. I miss the heck out of your smart remarks and the hard times you gave me every time we talked. I Love You and Miss You

Ron & Rebecca Emary

July 22, 2005

A scholarship fund has been established in Daniel's name at the high school in Superior, Arizona where Dan was a police officer. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student with an interest in criminal justice.



Not long ago a benefit softball tournament was held in Superior with ten teams playing for two full days. Many of Dan's friends were involved who played on teams, cooked food at the concession stand, and raffled items to raise money for the scholarship fund. Memorial key lanyards with Dan's name and badge number printed on them were also sold. The denamd for the lanyards has been overwhelming, as we are on our third order! About $2000.00 was raised at the tournament. Thanks to everyone who participated and helped out. We intend to make this an annual event.



I also attended a meeting last week of the Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association, of which Dan was also a member. I sold numerous key lanyards at the meeting, and when the officers in attendance learned of the scholarship fund, they passed the hat and raised over $825.00 in a matter of minutes. Thanks to the canine officers throughout the state of Arizona who contributed in Dan's memory.



Dan, we love and miss you so very very much!!

Tanya Turck

July 21, 2005

Daniel, it is so hard to believe that you have been gone for almost 8 months. Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and/or your family. I know you are in a better place and are where you are meant to be. It is still just very hard to understand. I feel very at ease knowing that you will be looking after your family and friends from above. I also feel very blessed to have known you for as long as I have. You were one person I could always count on. You were always the one person that could cheer me up when I've had a bad day. I would hear your voice and your laugh and I couldn't help but smile. So, until we meet again and you can make me laugh again, I will be thinking of you and loving you always.

chris garcia

June 25, 2005

They say it takes a minute to find a special person,an hour to appreciate them,a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them.





thinking of you Dan your friend Chris

S Madonia

June 16, 2005

Our hearts are filled with sadness each and everyday. My children Richie, Elissa and Nicole' have lost one of the most influential man they have ever known and we will never forget him. Dan will be remembered in our hearts forever.

Chris A garcia

May 7, 2005

THINGS ARE NOT THE SAME WITH OUT YOU. MISS YOU







CHRIS GARCIA

Donnie Stivers

April 12, 2005

Daniel was as spirited and fun loving a young man as I have ever known.I knew him best as a young child.He had boundless energy and was fearless.Babysitting him was an exciting experience.Daniel accomplished many things in his short life.This was due in large part to his love of life, family, and friends.His dad Ron was on the top of that list .Daniel will be missed by all who knew him. And we are all better for having known him.

Bev Law

April 9, 2005

Don and I were so sad to hear of Daniels passing. We will always remember his visits to Shawn and Todd when they were our neighbors, and will never forget the fun we all had in our back yards. Remembering especially the hair cut Don gave Daniel out in our garage. So much laughter from all of us about that very special time. We will never forget Daniel, he was a very special young man to both of us. We are so very sorry, and prayers to his family for peaceful hearts to come with time.

JANAI ARANDA

April 8, 2005

DAN I MISS YOU AND THINK ABOUT YOU OFTEN. THE PD ISNT THE SAME WITHOUT YOU THERE WHEN I STOP BY. I REALLY THINK THE GUYS MISS YOU, TOO. YOU CAN NEVER BE REPLACED. TO RON AND REBECCA- I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS.

JANAI ARANDA

ANN GARCIA

March 18, 2005

I MISS YOU. I KNOW WE DID NOT TALK

FOR A LONG TIME BUT, YOU WERE MY

FRIEND. And one does not realize a

a friend until there gone. We alway's remember what we don't have

until we lose something or someone

we have. That's what hurt's the most. But I remember the last time

we spoke and you hugged me and told me you missed me and my family.

Chris considered you his friend and Brandon say's he miss's you

even though his only 7 he remember's you and tauna. I think

about you all the time and how much

fun we had partying and just hanging out. What hurt's me the most is who else do I turn to when

I need someone there when I need someone the most. You were part of

our family with Brandon and now Malia and I wish she would have

met you. Because you would have been a great role model for both

of my children. We miss you a whole

bunch. Brandon alway's ask's where

your at. I tell him in HEVEN. Waiting for us.

Cpl. Jonathan Corkran

February 16, 2005

How to begin is so hard. I have pondered the thought for so long. There is no real way to ever express so much sorrow for such a loss. I want to hopefully be Daniel's voice to you. When you are not like us people don't get it, why we do the things we do. We never want awards or special treatment for what we do. Just look me in the eye and say Thank you, you have made a difference. Things like that are more valuable than gold. I can speak for myself only; but I am sure Daniel would want to be remembered for those things that made the difference for people. Remember the look in his face the first time he told you he wanted to be a police officer, the first time you saw hime in his uniform with his head held high and chest out, his first collar(arrest). I would want people to remember the long hours I put in just because I wanted to be there because I believe in what I do. Remember that I would never give up on you or turn away durning you time of need. I would run to, what you run from. I would give up all so you don't have to give anything. Morn my loss only shortly; but celebrate my life forever. I live on thru all of you. The people I have touched throughout my time. So, I will morn my brother, daniel's, loss but I thank him for the sacrifices he made. He now stands with his head high and chest out bearing the badge of glory with God smilling to him with open arms welcoming him home to walk the beat of heaven's streets. Please accept my warmest regards,Jonathan.

Marty and Laurie Hathaway

February 2, 2005

We just heard about Daniel, I remember a little boy living on 6th Street in Altoona, Iowa. After reading all what Daniel did anyone can see he grew into a good and respected man by all. That not only says something of what kind of person Daniel was but also says something about his family. Ron and Becky you should be proud of your son and have the peace in mind that god has bigger plans for Daniel. Our hearts go out to you in this time.

DANIEL NELSON MIDDLETON

FRANCINE GONZALES

January 30, 2005

This is an Irish Memorial blessing:

**Hhe' s Only Gone On**

At last his gallant soul 'Took Flight',
Into the 'Land Where There is no Night',
But his name's carved in Our Hearts to stay
As we think of the things that he used to say.
So he is not dead, He's only 'Gone On'
Into a 'Brighter, More Wonderful Dawn'.
For people like him were not born to die
But like the Sun that shines in the Sky
They warm the 'earth' and the 'hearts of men'
And in Happy Rememberance they live again.
So while he sleeps and his voice is still,
His spirit goes on and it always will.

(THERE ISN'T A DAY THAT GOES BY THAT I DON'T THINK OF YOU, REMEMBER YOU, AND MISS YOU. YOU'LL ALWAYS HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART. I'LL ALWAYS LOVE YOU!.)

Ron Emary

January 16, 2005

Dan, I sure miss sharing goofy cop stories with you. Both your dogs are doing well.

Love Ron

Ricky Warren

January 12, 2005

You are greatly missed and in my thoughts every day



Best fiends & Brothers

Wallace Kenney

January 7, 2005

Just wanted to say that we miss him alot and that Rozzi is taking up the slack on the complaint department.

THOMAS ROZZI

January 7, 2005

DAN, MY BROTHER, FRIEND AND PARTNER. PROTECT ALL YOU LOVE FROM THE HEAVENS ABOVE, FOR I WILL PROTECT ALL WE LOVE ON EARTHS SOIL, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN.

Melodi Murrieta

January 4, 2005

Daniel (teddy) was the nicest person I have ever known. He meant the world to me and I feel so lost without him. I know he's in a better place with loved ones and he will watch over all of us to keep us safe. Everything I do each and every day reminds me of him and it's hard for me, but I try to get by. No matter what happened we had each others back. He also introduced me to his wonderful family which are now real close freinds. I love Daniel with all of my heart and that will never change.

Chris A Garcia

December 27, 2004

Dan,we miss you alot,your sense humor,and the way you cared for your family and friends,you were a good man.My prayers go out to your family.

Ron & Rebecca Emary

December 25, 2004

Dan, this is our first Christmas without you and it was not easy. Neither was your recent birthday on December 19th. We love and miss you very much. Your humor was most certainly absent.

chris garcia

December 23, 2004

Chris,Ann,Brandon,Malia.Garcia

Dan with his police dog Hunter

Ron & Rebbeca Emary

December 11, 2004

Thanks to everyone who has posted and expressed their thoughts and caring, kind words. We are so proud of Daniels' accomplishments, and the honorable man he had become. Dan was born in Des Moines, Iowa and lived in Altoona until we moved to Arizona in 1987. After graduating from Gilbert, Arizona High School in 1994, Dan soon became a Detention Officer for the Pinal County Arizona Sheriff's Department. Being the BIG strong kid he was, he was always relied upon when it came time to deal with uncooperative inmates. After his stint in detention, Dan became a Ranger for the Gila River Indian Tribe. This was a sworn position, and kind of like being a deputy for a huge Reservation. Dan then became a police officer for the Coolidge, Arizona Police Department, where he worked his way into a K9 officer position. Dan was awarded their Officer of the year award after being there his first year. Dan left Coolidge after three years, and went to work for the Superior, Arizona Police Department, where he also became a K9 Officer. This is where Dan was working when he left us. We were so proud of the job Dan performed as a police officer. He was energetic, active, and very self motivated. He was a good investigator, and worked very diligently in narcotic enforcement. Dan's active work ethic resulted in some violent struggles with offenders, resulting in Dan ending up with a broken leg on one occasion, and a recent broken hand requiring surgery. He was also an excellent dog handler, and excelled with his dog named Hunter. Dan attended every law enforcement related training he could, and had just completed Phlebotomy training. Dan had also recently joined the volunteer fire department, and had started his training to become state certified. Dan was a fun loving kind of guy, who always liked playing jokes on people, and annoying them beyond belief. Someone recently described Dan as the kind of guy you would want to strangle one minute, and hug the next. Dan had a slew of friends around Arizona he had made through his law enforcement experience, especially in Pinal County. Dan also became very close friends with the Murrieta family in Superior, who he loved like his own family. Dan was an honorable, honest, and reliable man who was highly respected by all. He will be missed beyond belief. Dan's funeral was as beautiful as could be. It was attended by approximately 350 people including police officers, friends, family, and numerous police dogs. The service included a police honor guard, bag pipes, and helicopter fly over. The support of the family by the Chandler Police Department was unbelievable, and it would have been difficult to get through his loss without it. Especially that of Sergeant Tom Lovejoy, who also knew Dan well. Many thanks to Dan's cousin, Brad McDannell, as there is no way we could have made it through this tragedy without him. Thanks also to the Chandler Fraternal Order of Police, Chandler Police team 905, and the Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association who all came through to help the family. We will be posting a few photos of Dan, and we enjoy reading your comments.

Tabitha and Joe Huett

December 6, 2004

Rebeccah and Ron:
We just heard of you tremendous loss today and wanted to express our deepest sympathies. Although we did not know Dan, we know what wonderful people the two of you are. It saddens us and makes our hearts ache for you. Please stay strong and cherish the memories. If we can do anything please let us know!
Love,
Joe, Tabitha, Joan Tiffany, Hahley, Brieanah, Kylieh, and Skylar

Tanya Turck

December 1, 2004

Daniel and all the memories with him will live forever in my heart. I would like to thank his family for everything you have done for me. You will be in my thoughts and prayers always. Daniel was a special person in my life and he will be missed deeply.

Denny & Cathy Parker

December 1, 2004

Ron & Becky,



Our hearts go out to you in light of your family tragedy. I can't begin to imagine how you feel, losing a son. We have a lot of fond memories of Daniel as he was growing up in Altoona and will cherish those memories forever. God will guide you and help with the pain.

Angela Romano

November 30, 2004

I have known and worked with Danny since he was a freshmen in high school. He became a friend and a very special person to me. My prayers are with you all. God Bless you as we have been blessed by knowing Danny.

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You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Daniel Middleton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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