John A. Danzilli Jr.

Col. John A Danzilli Jr.(Ret), 97, of Monroeville, died peacefully at home on December 25, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Pittsburgh. He graduated high school at the age of sixteen. He was drafted into the Army and went to Korea where he received a field promotion, the Haile Selassie Medal with Two Palms, the Bronze Star Medal with “V” for Valor, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Commendation Ribbon with Medal Pendant. He was involved and injured in an IED detonation and refused to accept the Purple Heart. He returned home and joined the PA National Guard. He served as Battalion Commander at Hunt Armory in East Liberty. He remained in service for 27 years earning much recognition for his efforts. He retired as a colonel. John was the final living founding member of Francos Italian Army which was formed along with close friends. John retired from the military and went on to be appointed Allegheny County Director of Public Protection. He retired from Allegheny County and became the Monroeville Public Safety Director. After retirement, John went on to serve on council in Monroeville and also as Deputy Mayor. John was a strong supporter and avid fan of the University of Pittsburgh. He was preceded in death by his mother Josephine, his fatherly uncle Anthony, his wife Karen, and his son John. He is survived by his daughters Janice Colagrande and Valerie Walters. His grandchildren, Christopher, Joshua, Angela, Jeremy, and Jaclyn. Great Grandchildren, Ashley, Devlin, Aysha and Aliyah. And his loving companion Rita Windsor and former wife Lois Duff. Family and friends will be received on Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the GENE H. CORL FUNERAL CHAPEL INC. AND CREMATION SERVICES OF MONROEVILLE, 4335 Northern Pike (412-372-2100). A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 29, at 10:30 AM, at Christ the Divine Shepherd Parish at St. Bernadette Church at 245 Azalea Drive, Monroeville. Interment will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh.