Oct 26, 2023

Daniel A. Cecchini, 76, of Canonsburg, formerly of Avella, passed away Tuesday, October 24, 2023, in UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh.

He was born April 23, 1947, in Washington, a son of the late Elio and Mary Suvada Cecchini.

Dan was a 1965 graduate of Avella High School. In 1969, he received his Bachelor’s degree in History from Thiel College, and later, he received his Master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania and acquired his Superintendent papers.

He began his teaching career at Avella High School, where he later accepted the position of high school principal. After 35 years at Avella School District, he retired in 2004.

Dan was a former member of Avella Lutheran Church, and faithfully attended Peters Creek Baptist Church in South Park after moving to Canonsburg in 2010.

Dan was known for his quiet generosity. In both time and money, he gave to all who asked of him. He enjoyed serving the community as a volunteer at Washington Hospital, as a congregant at his church, and as a football and baseball coach for Avella Athletics.

Dan enjoyed woodworking, photography, cheering on Penn State, and buying more Christmas decorations than he could fit in his house (but not for lack of trying). He loved his family deeply, and will be remembered as a brother, father and grandfather who encouraged, supported and believed in the ones he loved. He is treasured by the people he leaves behind.

Surviving Dan are his three children, Nikki (Dave) Blue of Eldersville, Danielle (Michael) Black of Bethel Park, and Antony (Rachel) Cecchini of Collegeville; eight grandchildren, Bekah, Bella, Ben, Zander, Ethan, Jeb, Violet and Lennon; a brother, Marc (Cyndi) Cecchini; and a sister, Oretta Cecchini Muro, both of Avella; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, October 27, in the Jerome A. Stefkovich Funeral Home Inc., 18 Campbell Street, Avella, PA 15312, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 28, with Pastor Greg Adkins officiating.

Burial will be in West Point Cemetery, Avella.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Washington City Mission, 84 W. Wheeling Street, Washington, PA 15301; and Peters Creek Baptist Church, 6300 Library Road, South Park, PA 15129.

Condolences may be expressed at www.stefkovichfuneralhome.com.