In the quiet town of Live Oak, California, a community is enveloped in grief, mourning the loss of Timothy Daniel, a beloved 61-year-old mechanic, husband, stepfather, and friend. On the morning of July 30, 2025, Timothy’s life was tragically taken in a devastating motorcycle accident on Highway 99, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and an unshakable love for the open road.

Timothy, a lifelong resident of Sutter County with deep roots in nearby Hallwood, was riding his cherished Harley-Davidson motorcycle home after a long night shift at Farmers’ Rice Cooperative in West Sacramento. It was around 8:45 a.m. when tragedy struck at the intersection of Highway 99 and Bogue Road, on the southern edge of Yuba City. A southbound white Nissan Rogue, driven by 65-year-old Amarjit Singh of Yuba City, attempted a left turn onto Bogue Road despite a temporary no-left-turn sign due to ongoing construction. The vehicle crossed directly into the path of Timothy’s northbound motorcycle, which was traveling through a green light. The collision was catastrophic, ejecting Timothy from his bike and causing severe injuries. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, he was pronounced dead at Adventist Health/Rideout Medical Center at 9:18 a.m.
The driver of the Nissan sustained minor injuries, while his 33-year-old passenger was unharmed. Both were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has stated that neither drugs nor alcohol were factors in the crash, which remains under investigation. Witnesses reported that the Nissan followed an aggregate truck that had successfully made the turn, but the temporary signage and coned-off turn lane were overlooked, leading to the fatal collision.

For those who knew Timothy, the loss is immeasurable. Described by his stepdaughter, Katey Chapman, as “funny, kind, and incredibly hardworking,” Timothy had a gift for brightening any room with his warmth and quick wit. “Whether you knew him for a lifetime or just a moment, you felt his warmth, his generosity, and his deep love for the people around him,” his family shared in a heartfelt statement on a GoFundMe page created to support his grieving wife and cover funeral expenses. By August 4, 2025, the fundraiser had garnered over $2,000 toward its $10,000 goal, with donations flowing in from coworkers, friends, and strangers moved by Timothy’s story.

Born and raised in the small, tight-knit community of Hallwood in Yuba County, Timothy was a man of simple joys and profound dedication. His skill as a mechanic was matched only by his devotion to his family and his passion for life’s adventures. An avid outdoorsman, he found solace in golfing and fishing, but it was his love for motorcycling that truly defined him. For over two decades, Timothy rode with care and respect, embodying the spirit of a true enthusiast who cherished the freedom of the highway. His stepdaughter reflected on his influence, noting how he taught her to always be mindful of motorcycles on the road. “He was a very cautious and passionate rider,” Katey said, urging drivers to “learn to share the road” with vigilance and care.

The outpouring of support from the Live Oak and Yuba City communities speaks to the profound impact Timothy had on those around him. Friends and coworkers have shared stories of his infectious laughter, his willingness to lend a hand, and his unwavering loyalty as a husband, stepfather, son, and brother. “He was a devoted husband, a loyal friend, a loving son and brother, and a kind soul who made everyone feel welcome,” the GoFundMe page reads, capturing the essence of a man whose presence was a gift to all who knew him.

As the Daniel family navigates this heartbreaking loss, they are buoyed by the love and generosity of their community. The GoFundMe fundraiser, verified by the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office, offers a way for those touched by Timothy’s life to contribute to his memory and support his loved ones during this difficult time. Donations and messages of condolence continue to pour in, a testament to the far-reaching impact of a man who lived with purpose and love.

Timothy Daniel is survived by his devoted wife, his stepchildren, including Katey Chapman, and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and coworkers who will carry his memory forward. His legacy is one of laughter, hard work, and an unyielding zest for life—a legacy that will endure in the stories shared and the lives he touched.

To honor Timothy’s memory and support his family, visit the GoFundMe page to donate or leave a message of condolence. May Timothy Daniel rest in eternal peace, forever remembered, forever missed, and forever loved.