Daniel W. Kmetz

Daniel W. Kmetz, 64, of Streator passed away Monday, April 6, 2026 at Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital in McHenry.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 PM Saturday, April 18, 2026 at St. Michael the Archangel Church, Streator. Monsignor Philip Halfacre will officiate. Burial will follow in Riverview Cemetery, Streator. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Saturday at Hagi & Schultz Funeral Home, Streator.

Daniel was born February 3, 1962 in Streator, a son of Albert Stephen and Joyce Elaine (Vogel) Kmetz. He married Valerie S. Gilbert on March 8, 2002 in Streator. She survives.

Also surviving are his children, Ryan (Ericka) Kmetz of Braidwood, Paij (Trevor) Kmetz-Windus of Santa Fe, TX, and Eric (Paulomi) Kmetz of Portland, TX; step-children, Kori (Alex) Libby, Thomas Rhodes, and Kyle Rhodes, all of Streator; 14 grandchildren, Calla, Lillie, Cole, Michael, Craig, Raylan, Connie, Leon, Justin, Noah, Khloe, Kent, Rosie, and Eliott; and a sister, Georgia (Glenn) Braun of Streator.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Stephen Daniel Kmetz.

Daniel was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Streator. He had worked for Caterpillar later at Alloy Specialists.

Daniel was a man of deep faith, one who lived what he believed through his strength, his quiet resilience, and the way he carried himself; with purpose, dignity, and an unshakable sense of what was right. He was honest and direct. A man who knew who he was and never pretended to be anything else. Behind that was a deep sense of honor and a work ethic that never wavered.

He was a provider in every sense of the word. He worked harder than anyone, not for recognition, but because taking care of his family was simply who he was. And in that, he gave the people in his life something lasting; a sense of security, of steadiness, of knowing that everything would be okay because he was there.

Daniel loved his wife deeply. In the life they built together, you could see his devotion in the everyday moments; in his loyalty, in his presence, and in the quiet, constant way he showed up for her. Their bond was strong, steady, and full of love.

He was a man who could fix anything, a true master of all trades, and someone people could always count on. No matter the situation, he would find a way.

He had a passion for all things power sports. Whether he was building his own machines, watching others compete, or lending a helping hand, he was always drawn to the thrill of racing. He especially enjoyed watching Formula One, but his love for the sport went far beyond being a spectator. He lived it alongside his family; raising them in the world of go-kart racing and standing by their side through every turn, every race, and every unforgettable moment. He found true joy in staying busy and doing what he loved.

Family was everything to him. He loved deeply, not always through words, but through his actions, his consistency, and the way he showed up. There was nothing that brought him more joy than being a grandfather to his 14 grandchildren. He was proud, attentive, and devoted, always making sure they felt his love and support, no matter the distance.

As a father, he had a quiet way of showing up, always making sure his children knew they were loved.

He will be remembered for his strength, his steady presence, and the way he showed his love through everything he did. Though the world feels different without him, the life he built and the love he gave will continue on through those who love him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.