“Danny was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, teacher, and coach,” his obituary said. “He was a dedicated teacher and coach and had tremendous impact on countless students and athletes.”
Dellapina was a 1989 Catholic Central High School graduate who played defensive tackle at Capital University. He began his teaching and coaching career at Reynoldsburg High School before joining Springfield South High School, where he coached football, wrestling and worked with at-risk kids, according to obituary.
He then fulfilled a dream of coaching with his best friend, Kent Massie, at Tecumseh High School, later returning to Springfield High School, where he was currently teaching special education and coaching football.
“Danny was known for his loyalty, unwavering friendship, sharp sense of humor and sophisticated sarcasm,” his obit said. “He was the uncle you always wanted and the first person you wanted to call if you read something funny.”
He was a fan of Ohio State football and loved taking his daughters to the games, and taking off in his Jeep.
Dellapina is survived by his mother, Ardath Dellapina; his daughters, Taylor, Madison and Sydney Dennis; his brothers, Mike and Tim; his sisters, Kris, Terri and Maria; and nephews and nieces.
The family will have visitation from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday at Littleton & Rue Funeral Home, 830 N. Limestone St.
The burial service will begin at noon Saturday at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, followed by a celebration of life from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Simon Kenton Inn, 4690 Urbana Road.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Dellapina Scholarship Fund in c/o The Springfield Foundation.
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