Who are Daniel Naroditsky's parents? Family details explored following Grandmaster and Twitch chess educator's death at 29

The chess world is mourning the loss of Daniel Naroditsky, the American chess grandmaster and popular Twitch educator who passed away at the age of 29 on October 19, 2025. The Charlotte Chess Center confirmed his death and added that his family has asked for privacy during this period.

His father taught him to play chess at an early age. The Naroditsky family based itself in San Mateo, California, when they moved to the United States. There Daniel started his career in chess and became one of the most talented young players in the country.

Daniel Naroditsky’s father: Vladimir Naroditsky

Daniel is the son of Vladimir Naroditsky, who had immigrated to the United States out of Ukraine. He was a financial advisor, a teacher of mathematics, and intrigued by problem solving. Vladimir started to teach Daniel the fundamentals of the game when he was six years old. This was the beginning of a life long association with chess.

The methodology of teaching that was embraced by Vladimir was based on logic, patience and practice. These teachings influenced his son's thinking and competitiveness. Their bond went beyond chess and Vladimir would quite often accompany Daniel to training sessions and tournaments.

Daniel rose fast in both the local and national competitions through the encouragement of his father. At the age of 11, he had already won Northern California K12 Championship and became a World Youth Chess Champion at 12.

Read More: Grandmaster and chess influencer Daniel Naroditsky dies at 29

Daniel Naroditsky’s mother and brother: Lena and Alan Naroditsky

Lena Naroditsky is a classical pianist of Azerbaijan origin. She worked in the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and contributed greatly to the establishment of a balanced and creative home environment. The focus, expression, and discipline that she instilled in music also led Daniel on his way in chess because of her commitment to music.

Music helped Daniel Naroditsky in his thinking attitude towards the game. She frequently invited him to experiment with reason as well as creativity, which gave him an opportunity to think of chess not only as a contest. This was one of the strengths that Daniel realized as a player and educator.

Daniel Naroditsky also had an elder brother in piano player, Alan Naroditsky. In his youth Alan played the game of chess in a casual manner but he later specialized in music.

Read More: Vladimir Kramnik calls for investigation into Daniel Naroditsky's death at 29, raises allegations of substance abuse

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