Gerald M. Daniels

Ogden: January 20, 2025. Gerry is predeceased by his parents, Stanley & Agatha Daniels, brother, Stanley Daniels, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rebecca (Passarell) Daniels; children, Adrian (Jordan) Daniels, Caitlin (Anthony) Marchillo; grandchildren, Julian Daniels, Brady Marchillo, & Nolan Marchillo; sister, Adrienne Daniels; sister-in-law, Angie Daniels; several nieces, nephews, cousins & dear friends.

Gerry’s life story will be shared during his visitation at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.) Friday, January 31st, 2-4 & 6-8 PM. His funeral mass will be celebrated, Saturday, February 1st, 10 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, Martha St., (Spencerport). Immediately following, he will be laid to rest in St. John’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to, Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 20, PO Box 12580, Rochester, NY 14612 in his memory.

Remembering Gerry:

Gerald “Gerry” Daniels was a man whose wit, humor, and unyielding kindness made a lasting impact on everyone he met. Born on September 24, 1948, in Albion, NY, Gerry was raised in a family where community and respect were central. His father, Stanley “Scotty” Daniels, a bus driver, and school janitor, was known for his friendly nature, always waving and greeting people, even strangers. Gerry grew up in Albion with siblings, Stanley Jr. “Joe” an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and Adrienne “Ann” often referred to as Saint Adrienne, who he was very close to throughout his life. The spirit of warmth and openness was instilled in Gerry, who treated everyone he met with respect, never judging others, and always making time for a conversation.

Gerry had three beloved dogs in his lifetime. First, there was Gerry Dog, his childhood companion. Then, Griffey, a beloved family golden retriever. It was a rough sell at first convincing Gerry to get a family dog, but Caitlin wore him down and Griffey became his faithful shadow. Finally, there was Bunker, a pug, who at first was not Gerry’s ideal version of a companion. Fast forward, Bunker (like Griffey), became Gerry’s shadow and oddly they started taking on the same body shape. Bunker was Gerry’s constant companion and little buddy.

Gerry attended St. Mary’s School and then Albion Central Schools, graduating from Albion Central High School. He was a spirited student, involved in band, basketball (where he earned the nickname “Bones”), and the Albion Grenadiers Drum and Bugle Corps. After graduation, Gerry attended Western Kentucky University and Monroe Community College.

Always inquisitive and thoughtful, Gerry developed a lifelong love of music, especially the sounds of Buddy Holly, The Byrds, and the Eagles, amassing a massive music collection over the years. He attended many Bluegrass concerts with his sister, Ann. Music wasn’t just something to listen to for Gerry—it was a passion. He also played the drums throughout his life, bringing his natural rhythm to every performance.

Gerry liked to tinker with things on his workbench usually while puffing on a cigar and with music playing in the background. He liked collecting the most random things, always proud to show off his treasures. He was fascinated trying to get broken things to work (which usually ended up with him losing an important part and quitting in frustration, but he had to give it a try!)

He also had a fondness for old black-and-white TV shows like The Andy Griffith Show and The Little Rascals and classic movies like The Bishop’s Wife and The Wizard of Oz.

Gerry’s curiosity extended beyond music. He loved watching and feeding hummingbirds, walking through the woods, hunting, fishing, and simply being outside. He loved the simplicity and beauty of the world around him, and he cherished time spent with his family on camping trips, from trips to Disney World to exploring the 1,000 Islands, Colonial Williamsburg, Chincoteague, VA., and Gatlinburg, TN.

Family was everything to Gerry. He married Rebecca “Becky” Passarell on December 20, 1969. Together, they had two children, Adrian and Caitlin, whom Gerry cherished deeply. Whether it was a spontaneous camping trip or simply enjoying each other’s company at home, Gerry’s family was always his top priority. He was a selfless and generous man, always willing to drop everything to lend a helping hand to those he loved.

His career took him to Eastman Kodak, where he worked diligently for 22 years, making photo paper in 12-hour shifts, often in the dark, without ever complaining. He was tough yet gentle, embodying a sense of dedication and work ethic that carried him through the challenges of life. He served as a Vietnam War Veteran in the United States Army, where he was a member of the 1st Calvary Division, holding the rank of SGT E5. His sense of duty continued after his military service, as he remained an active member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 20, participating in the Honor Guard and marching in numerous parades.

Despite the demands of his career and service, Gerry was always ready with a witty remark or a light-hearted comment. His quick wit and humorous outlook on life made him the life of any conversation. He was a great conversationalist, never afraid to speak his mind or offer his perspective, which was often direct and to the point. One of his favorite sayings, “You can’t fix stupid,” became a trademark of his no-nonsense approach to life.

Though not one to complain, Gerry had his own struggles, including dealing with bad knees and his frustrations with the political climate, particularly his disdain for Joe Biden. Despite these challenges, he never let them define him, choosing instead to focus on what truly mattered—his family, his friends, and his passions. He had a remarkable way of teaching without ever realizing it, always leading by example with patience, understanding, and a deep sense of love.

Gerry was a one-of-a-kind person—a man of contradictions, in the best sense. He could be tough yet tender, direct yet kind, and always, without fail, a best friend to those who needed him. His ability to see the world through a different lens made him an incredibly unique individual. Those who knew him will always remember him as the man who could brighten any room with a joke, share the quiet wisdom of a thinker, and offer unconditional love and support to those he cared about.

To say Gerry will be missed is an understatement. His passing leaves a void that no one can fill. But his legacy of humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will carry his memory forward for generations to come.