Helen McDaniel, 96, of Huntsville, AL died peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Helen was born in Muncie, Indiana in 1929 to Ray and Hazel Sawtelle. She graduated from high school in Springfield, MO in 1947. At age 19, she moved to Wichita, KS and began working for Boeing Aircraft where she met the love of her life, Fred McDaniel. They were married on September 3rd, 1949. Not long after, Fred was sent to Fort Sill, OK to serve in the US Army. They began a family while there and then returned to Wichita when Fred finished his service. They both resumed working at Boeing and Fred attended Wichita University to continue his education. In 1962, Fred was transferred to Huntsville, AL and a year later began to work for NASA. Helen became a stay at home mom to raise her three children. In 1971, Helen began working for a CPA and a few years later became the head of acconuting for Ken McDaniel Homes, Inc. Helen and Fred enjoyed many years of fellowship and travel with wonderful friends.
Survivors include daughter- Karen Wierenga (Tom), sons- Gary McDaniel (Alice), and Ken McDaniel (Regina), grandchildren- Micah Wierenga, Josh Wierenga, Aaron Wierenga (Rachel), Christy Quade (Jonathan), Ryan McDaniel and Michael McDaniel (Leslie) and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, her granddaughter- Becky McDaniel, sisters- Gladys Daughtery and Mary Ann Palmer, and brother- James Sawtelle.
Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 at Weatherly Heights Baptist Church. The funeral service will follow with Pastor Valerie Burton officiating. A Luncheon will be provided by the church after the service. A private interment will be held at a later date.
