Donald J. Danko Sr. 1937-2024
YOUNGSTOWN — Donald Joseph Danko Sr., 86, passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. Known as “Doc” to his family and friends, he will be remembered for his love of his family, his sense of humor, and his big and generous heart.
Doc was born Aug. 26, 1937, in Warren, a son of the late John and Helen Ridilla Danko. Doc spent his early summers with family in Latrobe, Pa., where he learned to speak Slovak fluently as a young boy. Doc attended Warren G. Harding High School and after graduation in 1956, worked briefly alongside his father, John, at U.S. Steel before embarking on his lifelong career as a meat cutter. He worked for The Kroger Co. for 35 years and managed the meat department at the first Kroger Sav-On in Boardman. He also worked for many years as a manager at Spicko Sparkle Market. Doc was a member of the UFCW Local 880 and served for several years as sergeant of arms.
Doc was honored to serve his country as a mess sergeant in the Army Reserve. He was also proud of his status as an American Red Cross Blood donor, giving over 25 gallons.
He loved to garden and enjoyed giving produce to neighbors and friends. His garlic harvest and jarred Hungarian hot wax peppers were legendary. He loved to play cards with his buddies and Rummikub with his family. However, following “his” rules was the key to a good game!
He was an avid fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes.
Doc was a devoted member of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church for over 60 years and served on the church council, volunteered at bingo and managed the Sunday night bingo games for many years. Doc shared his talents with the late Father John Ycoback on various construction projects, building maintenance and the Byzantine Catholic Central school buses when needed. As he would say, “If you take care of something, it will last you a lifetime.”
Doc’s love of St. Mary’s and his devout faith lasted him through his lifetime and will serve him through eternity!
Doc was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Jack and Jimmy Danko. He is survived by his brother, Michael; and sisters, Delores and Evelyn.
Doc was married to the love of his life, Diana Guarnieri Danko, for 62 years. Together they made a loving, fun, happy home for their four children, Kathryn (Don Cook) Danko, Karen (Rich) Cremeans, Don (Kimberly) Danko Jr. and Kristina “Tia” (John) Pfeiffer. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Erika, RJ, Jordan (Josie), Luke (Ashley), Jake, Juliana (Nathan) and Mitch; two great-grandchildren, Titus and Ruth; and many nephews and nieces.
Doc found pleasure in the simplicity of his everyday life, like sitting in his comfy, well-loved chair, looking out the picture window and watching the grass grow. But nothing compared to the great joy his family brought to him, and he gave them in return.
Arrangements are being handled by Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home. Calling hours will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, 2024. A funeral liturgy will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 28, 2024, at St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church on Bella Vista Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church or The Hope Center.
(special notice)