Carole Rita McDaniel

August 17, 1934 – October 18, 2024

Carole Rita McDaniel, born Carole Rita Kucharczyk, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born during the heart of the Great Depression on August 17, 1934, Carole was the daughter of Stanley and Florentine Klein (née Zakrzewski). Her homelife was a difficult existence of resilience, love, and dedication, shaped by the trials and triumphs of her early years.

Carole's family history is one of perseverance and courage. Her grandparents, Bronislawa and John Kucharczyk, emigrated from Poland, seeking a better life in the United States. Her parents, Stanley and Florentine, married in Michigan and later changed their last name from Kucharczyk to Klein, a decision made in 1951 as they sought to forge a new path for their family.

Carole spent her early years in Detroit before the family moved to Pasadena, California. It was in Pasadena that she formed a lifelong friendship with Barbara Parker, a bond that would endure for decades. Carole attended Pasadena City College, where she earned her Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) certification in 1966, dedicating herself to a career in caregiving and service to others.

On March 30, 1957, Carole married James McDaniel in Boulder City, Colorado. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, raising three wonderful daughters: Charlene Kirkland, Linda Kelly, and Jill McDaniel. Carole was a devoted wife and mother, cherishing her family above all else. Her husband, Jim, passed away in 2007, and Carole remained a steadfast presence in the lives of her daughters.

Carole's life was not without its challenges, but she faced them with strength and grace. Her childhood, marked by the hardships of the Great Depression, shaped her into a woman of incredible resilience. She carried the legacy of her family's journey from Poland and the values of hard work and determination that were instilled in her by her parents.

Carole is remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and strength, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughters; Charlene, Linda, Jill, and by her grandchildren; Blake, Ren, Aubrey, Sarah, Matt and Lisa and Great grandchildren; Connor, River, Woody and Heda. Carol will be reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Jim, and those family members who passed before her. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Oakdale Memorial Park 1401 S Grand Ave, Glendora, CA 91740