Daniel May

In Loving Memory of Daniel Anthony May

September 1944 - May 2025

Daniel Anthony May, age 80, of Queen Creek, Arizona, formerly of Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He lived a life marked by service, hard work, humor, and simple joys.

Born and raised in Chicago, he proudly served in the United States Army from April 1968 to April 1970 before beginning a long and dedicated career as a brakeman with the Milwaukee Railroad, Soo Line and Canadian Pacific Railway. After retiring, he and his beloved wife Heidi settled in Queen Creek, Arizona, where he continued to enjoy the sunshine and his favorite outdoor pastimes. He never missed a moment to enjoy the outdoors-whether it was tending to his summer vegetable garden, feeding the birds, ducks, and squirrels in the neighborhood or riding his bike to the grocery store, where he had a knack for finding loose change. He relished being outside and never passed up an opportunity to feel the sun on his face.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Heidi of 48 years, daughter Nicole, grandson Giovanni, daughter Lana, son-in-law Daryush, grandchildren Logan, Leila and Presley. He was deeply proud of his family and found joy in every moment spent with them.

He had a sweet tooth and was known for baking chocolate chip cookies, making a mean pot of homemade chili, and finding room for dessert at any meal. One of his favorite outings was going to the Chinese buffet with Heidi, making sure to load up on the salmon.

Always one for routines, he spent his evenings watching the nightly news with David Muir, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and cheering (and groaning) for the Chicago Bears through their many losing seasons.

He had a playful side, joking about wearing a cape and bandana, and was known to read the obituaries daily-never missing the chance to reflect and smile at a life well-lived.

He will be missed for his humble strength, his sense of humor, and his deep love for his family and the simple pleasures of life. His was a life well-lived-full of character and small joys that meant everything.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Teddy & Virginia May, his brother Ron May & his dog Sparky.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to step outside, toss a peanut to a squirrel, ride your bike or enjoy a sweet treat in his memory.