Daniel Joseph Makielski

Daniel Joseph Makielski, age 68, passed away peacefully on February 25th, 2022 surrounded by the love of family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas & Anne, a dear friend Rodney Bonowitz, and a special nephew Theodore "Teddy" Makielski.

He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, daughters Caroline and Catherine, son Sam, and two grandchildren. He is also survived by his step mother Doreen Richards-Makielski and siblings: Thomas (Joanne) Makielski, Therese (Peter) Waltz, Jane Makielski and step-sister Jill (Phillip) Franco. Nieces; Megan (Shawn) Gauby and two sons, Gretchen, Kelly, and Shannyn Waltz, Mary Magellan, and Anne (Anthony) Colangelo and two children. In addition, sisters-in-law Dr. Elizabeth Bradley (Andrew Gensey), Ruth (Jude) Drelling and neice Laura Clark. Close friends include Mike and Marcia Wrazen & Jerry Gambino.

Daniel was born in Rochester, NY and grew up in the Greece area. In high school, he participated in Track & Field but had a love for Swimming & Diving. Daniel also enjoyed his time camping in the Boy Scouts. He was also a proud Eagle Scout. He later graduated from Notre Dame in 1975 having lettered in Swimming & Diving. He continued his love for the sport by coaching at numerous Rochester area high schools and colleges. The highlight of his career was scoring a perfect 10 for a dive and winning a gold medal in the Empire State Games in 1998. He loved all sports, but Notre Dame sports of any kind were especially dear to him. He truly was their number one fan. He also had a talent and love for art, especially drawing. He enjoyed visits to the family owned art shop in South Bend, Indiana and Eagle Lake, Michigan. Daniel's kind and compassionate heart was shown through his love for his family, friends, and pets. His stories, smile, and hugs will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to University of Notre Dame: Men's Swimming and Diving in Daniel Makielski's name.