Charles Allen McDaniel

Charles Allen McDaniel, 97, of Conroe, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025. Born in 1928, Charles, or "Charlie," was the very definition of a child from the Great Depression. He learned from a very early age the value of hard work and determination. Charles was an employee of the Union Pacific Railroad when he was drafted to fight in the Korean War, where he was stationed in Germany. He was able to return to the Union Pacific Railroad after the war and retired from there in 1984. Retirement quickly became boring to Charlie, so after a couple of years, he went back to work for the Southern Pacific Railroad, where he worked for another four years.

Charles is a past Worshipful Master of San Jacinto Lodge #106 A.F. and A.M. in Willis, Texas. He is also a past Worthy Patron of Willis Chapter #1017, Order of the Eastern Star, where he had the pleasure of serving beside both his wife and daughter.

After the loss of the love of his life, Melvina McDaniel, in 1997, Charles discovered his love of travel. He had the opportunity to see so many beautiful places, including France, Italy, Germany, Jamaica, and more. An ice-cold local beer in a new country or city was the biggest treat for him.

Charles was known for his quirky sense of humor, kind eyes, infectious smile, and a relentless sweet tooth. His favorite thing to do, though, was spending time with his family and loved ones. Charles is survived by his children, Mike McDaniel and Patricia Truitt (and husband Steve Truitt); granddaughter Melanie Evans (and husband Randy Evans); and great-granddaughters Delaney Evans and Sadie Evans.

Though we mourn our loss, we celebrate the life he lived. Rest in peace, Papa Charlie.