It’s with profound sorrow that Burke shares the news that esteemed Board Chair, Col. Howard Daniel, passed away on November 20, 2022.
Col Daniel served on Burke’s Board of Trustees since 1999, and during those 23 years of service, he was a strong advocate and compassionate leader for the individuals we served. Words do not do justice to the impact he has had on our Center and community. His motto was “Everyone is Somebody,” and we are thankful for his dedication and service.
Col. Daniel was a lifelong leader of service to his community and our state and nation. After serving our country for 28 years, he returned to his roots in Livingston, TX, and determined he would spend the rest of his life bringing a kind spirit and positive influence to the people around him.
In 1999, a former Polk County Judge who was aware Col. Daniel’s daughter had been born with a developmental disability encouraged him to consider serving on Burke’s Board of Trustees. As a result, he wholeheartedly served the board, becoming chairman in 2011 and subsequently joining the Texas Council Board of Directors. During this time, he also faithfully served his congregation as pastor of Chesswood Baptist Church.
In 2019, the Texas Council of Community Centers recognized Col. Daniel as Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. In 2020, Polk County Memorial Museum interviewed Col. Daniel to preserve his story and contributions to his community.
A memorial service for Col. Howard Daniel Jr., 85, of Livingston, Texas, will be held Saturday, December 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Chesswood Baptist Church in Livingston, Texas.
