The Terre Haute community is grieving the devastating loss of Daniel Tang, a bright and thoughtful 14-year-old boy who passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2025. Daniel, a former student at Central Junior High School, was deeply loved by his family and well-regarded by those who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing has left a profound emptiness in the hearts of his loved ones and the broader community that watched him grow up.
Daniel was known for his gentle demeanor, sharp intellect, and an old soul that seemed wise beyond his years. A quiet observer and deep thinker, he had a natural gift for working with his hands and understanding how things worked. That gift found an outlet at his older brother’s electronics and phone repair shop on 9th Street, where Daniel often spent his afternoons. Whether he was helping with repairs or simply watching and learning, his curiosity and eagerness to absorb knowledge shone through in everything he did.
Beyond his passion for electronics and problem-solving, Daniel was also a typical teenager who loved video games, spending time with his family, and learning new things. But what set him apart was his deep sense of compassion and humility. Friends, classmates, and teachers alike recall a young man who never sought the spotlight but made a lasting impression through his kindness and quiet strength.
Daniel was the cherished youngest son of the Tang family, well-known throughout Terre Haute as the long-time proprietors of the China Dragon Buffet. For years, the restaurant was more than just a place to eat—it was a community staple where families gathered, friends celebrated milestones, and neighbors felt at home. Daniel was often seen helping around the restaurant, quietly contributing to the family’s success with the same quiet dedication that marked all his endeavors.
In a family known for their generosity and strong community ties, Daniel was a reflection of those values. He was respectful, responsible, and deeply loving. To his parents, he was a source of pride and joy; to his older brother, a loyal and curious companion; and to his friends, a steady and caring presence.
The shock of Daniel’s passing has sparked an outpouring of support and sorrow from all corners of the community. Neighbors, former classmates, and longtime customers of the China Dragon Buffet have expressed their condolences, sharing memories that speak to the quiet but meaningful way Daniel touched their lives. Whether through a helpful hand at the restaurant, a kind word in the hallway at school, or the gentle smile he so often wore, Daniel’s impact was felt deeply by all who knew him.
As the Tang family faces this unimaginable loss, the community stands beside them—mourning Daniel, honoring his memory, and offering love and support in the days ahead. Memorial service arrangements will be shared as they become available, and many are already preparing to pay tribute to a life cut far too short.
Though his time on Earth was brief, Daniel Tang’s legacy will endure—in the lessons he taught through his kindness, the lives he touched with his gentle spirit, and the love he shared with his family and friends. May his memory be a blessing, and may those who mourn him find comfort in the light he brought into the world.
