James Daniel Obituary

James “Jim” Lee Daniel

October 18, 1949 – June 30, 2025

James “Jim” Lee Daniel, of Strasburg, CO, passed away peacefully at home on June 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Lamar, CO to Robert and Irene Daniel, Jim was raised near Holly and later in Fort Morgan, where he earned the nickname “Tank” for his strength and determination. He was a cowboy at heart, known for his grit, humor, and big heart. In 1971, he married Susan Brunkhardt, and together they raised three daughters and built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.

Jim founded Daniel Oil Field Service in 1977 and worked in the oil industry for 44 years until his retirement in 2018. He was a man of many talents—building swing sets, welding pipelines, and smoking the best brisket around. A BBQ master and award-winning chili cook-off champion, his smoked brisket chili was legendary. Jim loved to travel, camp, and tell stories that brought people together.

He was a devoted Christian, serving as an elder in his church and living out his faith by helping others without expecting anything in return. Even while bravely battling cancer in his final years, he participated in a clinical trial to help future patients and was honored as the “model patient.”

Jim is survived by his wife Susan; daughters Christine Romkee (Lee), JaLee Kitzman (Kagen), and Catherine Daniel-Fox (Elizabeth); grandchildren Broch, Wyatt, and Julianna; siblings Russell (Diane), RW (Karen), and Kathy DeFranco (Jim); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jim’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched with his strength, stories, and unconditional love. Ride on, cowboy. We’ll see you down the dusty trail.

Memorial contributions can be made to:

Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

275 Ash St. Bennett, CO 80102