Thomas James “T.J.” McDaniel, 72, of Ames, died June 26, 2011. His family invites you to join a Celebration of his life at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 5 at Adams Funeral Home.
T.J. was born March 1, 1939 in Melrose Park, IL. to Clarence Edgar and Lela Mae (Adams) McDaniel. He graduated from Casey High School, Casey, IL in 1957 and was a PHD graduate of University of Illinois. T.J. McDaniel was a professor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Dayton from 1966-71 and at Iowa State University for 37 years from 1972 to his retirement in 2009. T.J. enjoyed square dancing with the Dave Lightly’s Challenge Group and attended many national conventions. He was an avid Cyclone sports fan, antique collector, Alaska enthusiast, animal-lover, and a dedicated family man.
He is survived by his children, Katherine Smith of Ames, James (Lisa) McDaniel of Ankeny, John (Chrissy) McDaniel of Bondurant and Michael McDaniel of Ames; six grandchildren; and his former wife, Christine McDaniel of St. Louis, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ames Animal Shelter.
Online condolences may be made at www.adamssoderstrum.com. Adams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.