POST FALLS — Though Nicholas McDaniel served on the Post Falls Police Department for a short time, he left an “incredible mark” on his colleagues and his community.

“Time is relative when it comes to building relationships and making a lasting impression,” Post Falls Police Chief Greg McLean said Saturday, when McDaniel’s loved ones and fellow officers gathered at Real Life Ministries in Post Falls to celebrate McDaniel’s life and legacy. “Some people enter our lives briefly and yet their influence can be profound. Our fallen officer was one such person.”

McDaniel was 36 years old when he died of a heart attack while on duty last month. He had been with the Post Falls Police Department for nearly a year and brought with him 13 years of law enforcement experience gained in Hawaii, his home state.

Those who knew McDaniel said he showed an unparalleled dedication to his duties as a police officer. He worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of his community, McLean said, and was a wellspring of knowledge which he generously shared with his fellow officers.

A hardworking, “by the book” police officer, McDaniel also had a warmth and kindness about him that endeared him to anyone he met. He was a loving father to his sons and partner to his fiancé, Paige.

“His memory will remain etched in our hearts and his example will continue to inspire us to carry on the important work he dedicated himself to,” McLean said.

McDaniel’s father, Daniel McDaniel, described himself as a storyteller. But on the day of the funeral, he said he had no stories to share.

Instead, he wished only to thank the people of North Idaho who make up the community his son chose to call home and expressed gratitude for the support McDaniel’s family has received in the wake of his death.

“We wouldn’t be able to make it through this time of sorrow and sadness without you,” he said. “You’ve brought us joy, love and the kindness of all of you that serve our great nation.”

John Costa, a pastor at Real Life Ministries, shared memories of McDaniel that had been imparted by his loved ones.

He described a hardworking man with a strong personality and a love of practical jokes. McDaniel once demonstrated how to ride a motorcycle inside of a house — a fond memory that brought smiles to the faces of those who mourned him.

Costa said he prays McDaniel’s family feels a measure of comfort amid their sorrow, as all those who knew McDaniel stand with them in their grief.

“You know that Nicholas is in heaven,” Costa said. “That’s your hope. This alone provided the occasion to smile and to shed tears.”

The Post Falls Fraternal Order of Police Foundation is fundraising to support McDaniel’s family. All foundation-endorsed fundraising efforts can be found at postfallsfop.org.

    Post Falls Police Chief Greg McLean reminisced Saturday about Nicholas McDaniel, a police officer who died in October.