Travis Benjamin McDaniel

Travis Benjamin McDaniel, 49 years young, of Lenoir City, TN, passed away January 10th, 2026.  Travis was born to James C. (Nick) McDaniel, Jr. and Judy McDaniel on November 23rd, 1976 in Valparaiso, IN.  He graduated from Wheeler High School in 1995 and Indiana University a few years later.  Travis held a degree in structural engineering.  Prior to 2017, Travis traveled in the country as an ironworker.  He was known as "Traveler" by the Local 395.  He was a 3rd generation ironworker, following in the footsteps of his father, Nick, and his grandfather, Red McDaniel.  Travis was an avid motorcycle-both RC and the real deal, racing car, and muscle car man.  He loved snowmobiling!  Pink slips were on the line when he was younger. Travis' dog, Rosie, held a special place in his heart, along with Star Wars, and his person, Tasha-the very love of his life.  He always lived, loved and played hard; to the best of his ability.

Travis is preceded in death by his wife, Tasha Le'Faun Stiles-McDaniel; paternal grandfather, James Coy (Red) McDaniel; maternal grandparents Gerrit and Margaret Jansen; uncles Cecil McDaniel, Ed Jansen, Robert Jansen, John Jansen; and aunt Joan Geller.  

He is survived by his parents; brother Heath McDaniel, who held a very special place in Travis' heart; grandmother Lenora McDaniel of Portage, IN; a whole host of family and friend in Indiana; his brothers from the Local 395 of Portage, IN and Local 1 in Chicago, IL.

Travis will be missed so very much.  He is another soul gone too soon.  May the Lord hold you in His arms and may you find eternal peace.  Rest in peace and be out of pain son.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.