Gayle L. McDaniels

Gayle Lynn McDaniel, 75, of Minooka passed away on November 7, 2025 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet. She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Paul McDaniel, who continues to reside on their beloved farm in Minooka. Gayle was born in Joliet on December 20, 1949, to the late Richard and Mildred (Rizzo) Peterson. In addition to her husband, Gayle is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Laura Peterson, of Joliet. She was preceded in death by her brother, Richard (Rick) Peterson, and is survived by sister-in-law, Gayle Peterson, of Lockport. Further surviving Gayle are nieces, Stephanie Peterson and Millie Peterson, nephew, Andrew Peterson (Stephanie), and great-nephew, Nolan Peterson.

Gayle graduated from Joliet East High School in 1968. After a year at Joliet Junior College, she attended and graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in education and later earned a master’s degree in counseling. She taught biology at Willowbrook High School, where she developed a curriculum and textbook for a class in animal husbandry. Later she served as a counselor at West Chicago Community High School.

Gayle had an amazing gift for music that came to life when she began taking violin lessons at the age of eight. She eventually ascended to playing first chair violin in the high school orchestra. In the 1970’s, she transitioned from classical to country music. She became the star fiddle player for the popular country bands Foggy Mountain and Prairie Fire, the latter of which included her husband, Paul, and brother, Scott, among its musicians. Gayle brought a special flair and joy to every performance for many loyal fans over many years.

Another lifelong passion for Gayle was her love of horses. From her first horse “Gypsy” to her most recent “Baby Jack,” she devoted a large part of her life to caring for horses and teaching others, especially young people, how to ride and care for them. After her Dad helped Paul build a large horse barn on the Minooka farm, Gayle and Paul operated a boarding and training business for many years. Gayle populated the farm with other animals as well, including two miniature donkeys and a cow named “Moo.”

A lifelong learner and reader, Gayle was an intellectual person knowledgeable about a wide range of topics tempered by a healthy dose of self-deprecation and a keen sense of humor. She enjoyed situation comedy television shows, especially reruns from the 1960’s and 70’s. She was always ready with a smile and a laugh to put everyone in a good mood.

A memorial and celebration of Gayle’s life for family and friends will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, 1500 Black Road, Joliet, Illinois, with a reception to follow. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial contributions in Gayle’s memory may be made to Will County Humane Society, 24109 W. Seil Road, Shorewood, Illinois 60404. To leave online condolences, visit bgsfuneralhome.com.