Daniel was born on 7 September 1917 in Holborn, London to Polish born parents Hyman and Leah nee Altman and he had two older sisters. An older brother Harris died when he was twelve. Their father was a licensed victualler and the family ran and lived at the Duke of York public house in Holborn from 1934 when it was built.

Daniel enlisted in June 1940 and died on 3 December 1941 whilst in training. He died at RAF Hospital, St Athan, Cowbridge. His death certificate states: ‘1. a. Cardiac Failure. b. Broncho Pneumonia.’