Daniel was the youngest of three children, his family said in a statement. The family described Daniel as “fearless in the pursuit of happiness in life.”

“Words really cannot express what a special boy Daniel was. Such a light. Always smiling, unfailingly polite, incredibly affectionate, fair and so thoughtful towards others, imaginative in play, both intelligent and articulate in conversation: in all, a constant source of laughter and joy,” the family said.

Barden’s parents and older brother, James, appeared on the television program “Katie” on Monday to talk about Daniel, the special little boy with an “old soul”.

“He was just so sweet and kind and thoughtful,” said James, who is just a few years older than his brother.

A celebration of Daniel’s life will be held Tuesday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. A funeral is scheduled for Wednesday.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/sandy-hook-elementary-school-shooting-victims/story?id=17984685#20