Daniel Ilunga Yakalu Madimba

A viewing will be held on Friday, November 14th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15th, 2025, at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Daniel Ilunga Yakalu Madimba, age 54, who passed away peacefully after a long and courageous battle with cancer on Sunday at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta. Bishop Bill Snell will officiate. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
Daniel entered the world on June 2, 1971, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, born to Lunga Ntaka and Mwanza Tshinu. From childhood, Daniel demonstrated a spirit marked by quiet determination, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to family-qualities that remained the foundation of his entire life. In 1996, he married Rebecca Tshindibu, beginning a partnership defined by unity, perseverance, and profound love. Together, they built a home that became a source of strength, comfort, and hope for their children and for many around them.
A Life of Dedication, Faith, and Hard Work
Daniel was known for his remarkable work ethic and steadfast commitment to providing for his family. As a semi-truck owner-operator, he found purpose and pride in the independence and challenge of his work. Even as he underwent cancer treatments, he continued working full-time for as long as his body allowed, returning to work each time he regained the slightest bit of strength. His resilience during these years stands as a testament to his love for his family and his extraordinary determination.
Only in the past year, as the cancer advanced and his pain intensified, did Daniel step away from the work he loved. Yet even in his hardest moments, he remained a source of encouragement, faith, and strength to others. His spirit never wavered.
Outside of his career, Daniel enjoyed soccer, boxing, and spending time in worship and service. He lived his faith through his actions-quiet acts of kindness, unwavering loyalty, and a genuine heart for others. To his family and friends, Daniel was a pillar: steady, humble, and full of grace.
A Journey of Courage and Hope
Daniel's life story includes chapters of deep bravery. He and his family fled the Congo to South Africa in search of political asylum, enduring uncertainty and hardship on their path to safety. Their journey eventually led them to the United States, where Daniel worked tirelessly to provide opportunity, stability, and a future for his children. This journey is only one example of Daniel's courage-much of which he carried quietly, with humility and faith.
A Legacy of Love
Daniel leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. He is survived by his cherished wife, Rebecca, of Sauk Rapids, and their beloved children: Lydie of Sauk Rapids; Freddy of Montrose; Moise of Sauk Rapids; Elie of St. Cloud; Hénoc of Sauk Rapids; Israel of St. Peter; and Sarah of Sauk Rapids. He is also survived by eight siblings and a large extended family who loved him dearly.
He is preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, who now welcome him in eternal peace.
Daniel will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his dedication, his wisdom, and his unwavering faith in God. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but the light he brought into the world continues through his children, his family, and the countless lives he touched.
In Lieu of Flowers
For those wishing to support the family as they navigate this difficult time, a GoFundMe has been established: https://gofund.me/6a3f4f814