Helen Mcdaniel

Helen A. McDaniel, 99, of Independence, MO passed away October 3, 2014 at the Kansas City Hospice House with her daughter, Cindy Cosner at her side. Helen was born September 28, 1915 in Waterloo, IN to Lawrence and Nannie (Gfeller) Parks. She attended school in Waterloo, and then graduated from Ball State University in 1939 with majors in English, History, Biology and P.E. She returned to Waterloo and taught for three years at the high school. She then moved to Ft. Worth, TX. While there she met her first husband, Leon Morrow, who was killed in an Army training accident during WWII. Four years later, she married Douglas McDaniel and moved to Pasadena, CA. She then returned to her hometown, and took care of her father until his death. In 1954, she moved to Independence, MO, where she spent the rest of her life teaching school and raising four children. She enjoyed traveling the world. Helen’s life was one of service to friends, family, church and community. She was happiest when helping others. She taught the Asbury Class at Christ United Methodist Church for over 30 years. Helen was preceded in death by her parents; sister Ruth; niece Dorothy, nephew Russell, and great nephew Johnny. She is survived by her sons, Pat and wife Gloria, Dennis; daughters, Cindy and husband Tim, Judy and husband David; grandchildren, Tim and wife Heather, Becky and husband Travis, Kelly and husband Vince, Doug and wife Reyna, Pat and wife Heather, Troy; great grandchildren, Aiyana, Kailon, Braylon, Taylor, Ryan, Jackson, Toby, Alayna, Caitlyn, Cameron and Brooklyn; great niece’s Vicky and husband Jerry, Sherry; and great nephew, Phil, all from Garland TX. A special thank you to Starla and Preferred Hospice, and to all of the staff of St. Luke’s East and Kansas City Hospice. A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on October 18, 2014 at Christ United Methodist Church, 14506 E. 39th St. South, Independence, MO 64055. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Christ United Methodist Church. The family requests dress to be casual at her celebration. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)