Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Daniel Motel Obituary
Daniel was born on November 22, 1993, in Park Ridge, Illinois. He attended Forest Glen Elementary School, Hadley Junior High, and Glenbard West High School in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where he was an outstanding honor student and admired class leader. He captained and led his school's Mathematics and Scholastic Bowl teams, played travel baseball, and tutored classmates and other students. An extraordinary writer and mathematician, Daniel also enjoyed computers, reading, satiric TV comedies, trivia, music, and both playing and watching sports.
Daniel worked as a summer technology intern for Glen Ellyn School District 41 and later as an engineer following his graduation from Northwestern University, where he earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2016.
Daniel is survived by his heartbroken family-parents Sharon and Corey, sisters Allison and Kaitlyn. He is also survived by maternal grandparents, F. Thomas Zukley and Clara Gasunas, eleven aunts and uncles, and twenty-one first cousins.
Daniel loved his family, his dog Chloe, and wildlife. He derived the most joy from board games, video games, playing tennis, late-night walks, and spending time with his many devoted, longtime friends. Behind Daniel's kind, humble, and gentle nature was a brilliant mind and a dry wit. He was quiet, thoughtful, and generous with his time and talents in helping others. Above all, he was a loyal friend with the highest integrity.
A celebration of Daniel's life is planned for late November.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center, Glen Ellyn, IL, specifying "In Memory of Daniel Motel for the Willowbrook Fund." https://www.dupageforest.org/donate-to-willowbrook
Checks may be sent with the same designation in the memo line to: Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, P.O. Box 5000, Wheaton, IL 60189
Memorials will be dedicated to a named space for Daniel when the Center undergoes improvements in 2022.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Motel
24 Entries
Liam McNeary
May 21, 2023
Daniel was one of the first friends I made upon moving to Glen Ellyn in 2007. He was brilliant, kind, and gentle. I think of him often and will always remember his smile.
Gina and Hailey Walch
December 20, 2021
Dear Motel Family, We are so shocked and saddened to hear about the heartbreaking loss of Daniel way too soon. It has been many years since our RE carpool, but he was always a sweet, adorable, polite, and chatty young man. Wishing you peace and comfort now and through the holidays as you navigate this difficult time.
Ann Wyant
November 17, 2021
I can remember sweet Daniel as a three year old boy...so sweet and thoughtful. My daughter Ellie and Daniel had play dates after pre-school and I remember my amazement at three yr old Daniel being able to sound out the phrase "Tradition of Excellence" on a napkin. He was a brilliant and beautiful boy. I am just so shocked and saddened. My heart breaks for you all....Sharon and Corey, Allison and Kaitlyn. May God comfort you all in your grief.
Sharon Motel
November 17, 2021
Daniel's Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunday, November 28.
Erica Nelson
October 20, 2021
Sharon and family, my profound sympathy for the loss of Daniel, your child and brother. The saying there are "no words" is never more true. I hold you in my heart.
Kathie and Steve Paravola
October 11, 2021
The Motel family,
We are so sorry for your loss and extend our heartfelt sympathies during this most difficult time. Daniel was such a bright, kind person and we remember fondly him from the Forest Glen days. You are all in our hearts and prayers, and we hope you find comfort in how many lives he touched.
Sandy Hazemi
October 8, 2021
My heart is shaken with grief over the loss of this fine young man from our community fold. I will always see him has Danny, the boy with a big smile and confident presence. I send my prayer of peace and comfort to your family.
Ali Tannenbaum
October 5, 2021
I am so sorry for your profound loss. Daniel clearly touched many lives. I hope you and your family are able to have the space and time to grieve together.
Teresa Shea
October 4, 2021
Sharon, I´m so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Elizabeth Lee - Hadley PE
October 4, 2021
My condolences to the whole family. Such a hard time for you all. It is always a shock to hear of a students' passing - much too soon in life, of course. Alli and Kaitlyn and Sharon - know that Hadley has prayers of strength for you all.
LAURA JEAN NALEPKA-PRESCOTT AND GEORGE PRESCOTT, SR.
October 4, 2021
We extend our heartfelt sympathy to you, Corey and Sharon, Allison and Kaitlyn, on the loss of Daniel. Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers,
Amy Raczka
October 3, 2021
Amy Raczka
October 3, 2021
Amy Raczka
October 3, 2021
Amy Raczka
October 3, 2021
Our hearts are broken over the loss of Daniel. He was so kind and gentle but beneath that soft spoken demeanor
his sharp wit always left us laughing. It goes without saying that of course our 4 legged family members adored him. To the Motel family, please accept our deepest condolences.
Gia Kunkel
October 3, 2021
I have no words to express my sadness for your loss. Sharon, you and your family are in the prayers and thoughts. My deepest sympathies.
Ted Sima
October 3, 2021
In Memory
Debbie & David Page
October 3, 2021
Dear Sharon & Corey, Our deepest condolences to your family. May God´s presence and many good memories of Daniel bring you comfort as you grieve.
The Kalinich Family
October 3, 2021
Our deepest sympathy.
Gail Kalinich
October 2, 2021
Gail Kalinich
October 2, 2021
Gail Kalinich
October 2, 2021
Gail Kalinich
October 2, 2021
Gail Kalinich
October 2, 2021
Tall, proud, talented, brilliant, kind Daniel. We are all devastated by his passing and hold your family in our hearts. He will truly be missed by our entire community and certainly our family. Hoping memories of the joyous times with him will be comforting to all of you at this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 24 of 24 results
How to support Daniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
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.
Read moreResources 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.
Read more
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.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Daniel Motel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more