Cecil "Robbie Daniels" Brasiel

Cecil “Rob” Brasiel passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 91. He was born in McLoud, Oklahoma, June 22, 1933. His family moved to California where he graduated from Hayward High School in 1952 and shortly thereafter, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He became an Army Airways Communications System Specialist (AACS) stationed at Johnston Island in the Pacific Ocean where he learned to utilize radio, voice and telegraphic communications. He acquired two service medals while in the Air Force; National Defense Service and Good Conduct. 

Upon return to his hometown of Hayward, California, he attended Oakland City University and became the Music Director at La Vista Baptist Church where he met his wife, Sunday school teacher, Glenda Hooten. They married in 1957 and subsequently had 3 children. Cecil began a career selling insurance. As a musician, he continued his interest as a professional pedal steel guitarist and eventually went on the road with a traveling band including his younger brother Jimmy, creating a stage name along the way, Robbie Daniels. In 1975 Robbie settled in Casper, Wyoming, married his second wife, Judy Aguilar and they raised their 2 children together.

While well established in Casper, he ran his own business installing siding for Casper residents. Still playing music, Robbie traveled throughout Wyoming managing bands, performing at many events and became a member of various lodges within Casper, most notably, the Fraternal Order of Eagles. 

Robbie’s obsession was his pedal steel guitar. He truly was one of the best. Playing music for his parents as young as 6 years old, he settled on the pedal steel at age 14 and never stopped playing until the age of 85 with his final performance being his granddaughter’s wedding. Robbie had a gentle soul as shown through his love and protection of his baby sister, Patty. He possessed a quick sense of humor, never made an enemy and was loved by everyone he came in contact with. Robbie touched many lives with his music and leaves an incredible legacy through his exceptional musical talent. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Robbie was preceded in death by his parents, William and Pearl Brasiel, both of Casper and his siblings Jimmy Brasiel and Patty Smith, both of California. He is survived by his 5 children, Charles Brasiel and Robert Brasiel, both of Carson City, NV; Lori (Timothy) Rickford of Pioneer, CA; Michael (Katrina) Brasiel of Casper; Shona Brasiel of Casper; former spouses Judy Brasiel and Glenda Hooten, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at 1:00pm, Friday, February 14, 2025, at Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery. 

A Celebration of Life and a Potluck Jam Session will be held on June 21st from 3pm until 8pm at the VFW on Bryan Stock Trail in Casper. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:                                                                                                                                                             

‘Veteran Volunteers’

In Memory of Cecil Brasiel/Robbie Daniels

Central Wyoming Hospice

319 South Wilson Street

Casper, WY 82601

(Checks can be made to: Central Wyoming Hospice)

To share a memory of Cecil or leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.