Daniel Christopher Eastman, 25, of Olathe, KS passed away on January 30, 2024. He graced the world with his presence on December 15, 1998, in Kansas City, MO the first son of Philip and Kimberly (Adler) Eastman. He was currently employed at Jimmy John's in Overland Park, KS where he greatly enjoyed the company of his coworkers. He was a 2017 graduate of Olathe Northwest High School.
Daniel's life was cut way too short, but he lived a full life with a big heart. He had just turned 1-year old at the dawn of the new millennium, watching from his bedroom window as the neighbors celebrated by shooting fireworks in the cul-de-sac below. He spent much of his early years walking around with a toy car in one hand and a dinosaur in the other; and trains, oh how he loved trains! We took a train ride in Florida once and the engineer brought Daniel up to ride in the engine – what a thrill! Daniel always loved music and grew up listening to the Beatles while dancing around the coffee table. He liked wearing costumes as well with Woody from Toy Story being a particular favorite.
As Daniel grew older, he expanded that great ear for music by playing the viola in the school orchestra, earning multiple I ratings at district orchestra contest. He later learned to play the guitar as well and even began creating his own music. Daniel developed a wide variety of interests through the years. In Scouts, he achieved the Arrow of Light award. One of his proudest accomplishments was earning his black belt in tae kwon do.
Daniel loved food and would try (and usually like) any cuisine! His favorites were sushi, ramen and buffalo wings. Daniel was easy to talk to because he was so well versed in history, astronomy, music and much more. He was also a huge fan of the Kansas City Chiefs. He attended the victory parade with friends when the team won the Super Bowl in 2020. That was one of his fondest memories, getting to see the players up close.
Daniel also enjoyed traveling and outings with his family. A family favorite was always screaming through roller coaster rides at amusement parks in Florida, Branson, St. Louis, Kansas City and points in between. He also enjoyed swimming – especially at an ocean beach. The last big family trip was to Washington, DC where he really enjoyed soaking in the historic sites from Ford's Theater, the Capitol and especially the WWII Memorial because his Grandpa was a paratrooper during the war. Daniel always wanted to visit Japan to experience the culture, but sadly that will be a trip never taken. It's so sad knowing all of the wonderful experiences he will miss.
Daniel was an avid video gamer, plus he enjoyed anime and cars (he could tell you all about them!). He was a big movie fan as well – especially the science fiction genre with Star Wars being his favorite. He had an infectious laugh and could find humor in almost any situation, but with a sensitive side that he didn't often allow people to see. He loved the family pets dearly. Halloween and Christmas were easily his favorite times of the year.
For those who knew Daniel best, he will always be deeply loved and missed more than he could ever imagine. He leaves a hole that can't be filled – God bless and rest in peace our dear son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. You are now free to soar the universe that intrigued you so!
I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living, My Baby you'll be.
Daniel is survived by his parents and brother, Matthew Eastman, all of the home along with his grandmother, Imogene (Jean) Eastman, of Louisiana, MO as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother, Nathan Eastman, grandfather, Harold (Bill) Eastman, and grandmother, Eulala Dade.
Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home in Olathe, KS with a visitation/reception to follow at the funeral home.
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