Daniel J. “Dan” DeLotto, 77, of Bellefonte, passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Born on March 27, 1948, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Joseph and Anna (Bobick) DeLotto. On December 27, 1970, he married Patricia R. “Patty” Hollar, at the Howard Christian Church. Patty survives at home.
Dan was a 1966 graduate of New Kensington High School. He enlisted in the US Army on April 17, 1967, and received his honorable discharge on April 8, 1970. He earned the rank of SP5 and received the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his service.
After serving in the Army, Dan went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Penn State in 1974. He began his career at IBM as an electrical engineer before transitioning to education, where he spent 22 years as a dedicated math teacher at Penns Valley Area High School before retiring.
A longtime member of the Howard Christian Church, Dan had many passions. He enjoyed biking, singing, playing guitar, completing crossword puzzles, and—most of all—fishing, his favorite pastime. Deeply committed to his community, Dan participated in water testing for the Clean Water Conservatory and volunteered with numerous local organizations. He drove for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), assisted with the Bellefonte Water Authority, and twice a year helped stock fish from the Curtin Bridge to Dowdy’s Hole—just to name a few of his many contributions.
Dan was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State football, and he could often be found tinkering around the house. A self-proclaimed “jack of all trades and master of none,” he embraced life’s simple pleasures.
Above all, Dan cherished his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with his granddaughters, whom he adored beyond measure. Their smiles could light up his world.
In addition to his beloved wife, Patty, Dan is survived by his son, Jeffrey J. DeLotto of State College; his daughter, Jennifer C. Ritter and her husband, William, of Clearwater, Florida; and his granddaughters, Katelyn and Allyson Ritter.
He is also survived by his four sisters-in-law: Kathleen Rogers and her husband, Keith, of Howard; Sandra Hunt and her husband, Jeffrey, of McEwensville; Beth Dabiero and her husband, Ernest, of Nags Head, NC; and Barbara Shugarts and her husband, Douglas, of Franklinton, NC. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other beloved family members also mourn his passing.
Along with his parents, Dan was preceded in death by his brother, Donald J. DeLotto.
All services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
• Howard Christian Church, PO Box 465, Howard, PA 16841
• Water Testing Group, c/o Clear Water Conservancey, 176 Armagast Rd, Bellefonte, PA 16823 (please include “CCPaSEC” on the memo line).
Arrangements are under the care of Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc., Milesburg, PA.
Online condolences may be shared at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.