Richard Danesi

Richard Danesi, 80, formally of New Alexandria, passed away Monday, Sept. 25, 2012, from complications resulting from Parkinson's disease. He had been a resident of Largo, Fla., for the past three years. Richard was born Sept. 26, 1931, in Slickville, to the late Julia (Rasperger) and Natale Danesi. Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Sally (Feb. 19, 2008); and sisters, Philomenia (who died in infancy) and Gloria (Oct. 7, 1963). Richard is survived by his daughter, Lynn and her husband, Joseph Kane, of Belair, Fla. He is also survived by his uncle, Andrew Rasperger, of Slickville; aunts, Edith Hollick, of Ligonier, and Jean Ahacic, of Export; and numerous cousins. Family and friends will be received at for a funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday in St. Sylvester's Church, Slickville, with the Rev. Salvatore Lamendola as celebrant. Interment will be at Twin Valley Cemetery, Delmont, where a graveside service will be conducted. "My nephew Richard Danesi was well known by all. He was a very active member of his church and the Lion's Club. He served in the Army as a corporal and with the military police. Richard earned his chemical engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, and worked for Hall Laboratories. Up until his illness, Richard was active in the Lion's Club serving as a District Governor during the 1970s. Richard was well-known for giving generously of his time, talent and treasure to all, whether it was family, friends or his church. He was a very giving individual. Richard was a lifelong member of St. Sylvester's Church in Slickville and a member of the Lions Club. He was the head of the Annual Diocese Lenten Appeal for many years until his illness prohibited him from continuing in that role. He was also a dedicated reader at Sunday Masses. At church dinners, Richard and his wife, Sally, would don their aprons and work cleaning up after the event. If you went to the New Alexandria Demolition Derby sponsored by the Lion's Club, you would hear Richard on the microphone at every race making announcements and derby results. Richard's wife Sally would also be there making her famous fried dough for sale at the concession stand. Richard was a devoted son to his parents, especially his widowed mother. When her eyesight started to fail he would prepare her medications and always check up on her. Richard's mother always spoke of how she appreciated his loving care. Everyone knew Richard as a gentle, loving and giving person throughout his life. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him while he was on this earth. Now we pray that the perpetual light will shine on him and he will rest in peace." -Aunt Jean Ahacic

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