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Pete Duranko Obituary
Notre Dame announced Sunday that Duranko died at a hospice in Windber, Pa., on Friday. He had battled amyotrophic lateral sclerosis for a decade.
Originally from Johnston, Pa., Duranko started at defensive tackle for the Fighting Irish in 1965 and '66. He had 73 tackles for the '66 team, which allowed only 3.8 points per game and had six shutouts in 10 games.
The next year he was drafted by the Cleveland Browns of the NFL in the fourth round and the Broncos of the AFL in the second round. He went on to play defensive end and linebacker for the Broncos from 1967-74.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
23 Entries
February 14, 2016
Duranko, the finest football name I have ever heard. If ever there was a name for football "Duranko" would be that name. A Denver Broncos, Pete Duranko fan, who will always remember you, from 1968 until my final day. It broke my heart to hear of your passing. Just a Pete Duranko, Denver Broncos fan. This Ones for Pete!
Bob Harbrant
June 22, 2012
I miss my dear friend a lot and think about him often; I am glad he is free of pain now! I miss my visits with him. He will always be in my prayers.
March 5, 2012
Just found out,that Pete Duranko passed away. Our love is with him. Love,Sherry and Angel Duranko Carson City,Nevada
Susie Oreskovich-Gornick
October 22, 2011
Jan Nick and Greg I just learned of Pete's passing. I have fond memories of the Duranko family from my childhood.Pete was my show and tell in first grade.My dad played golf with Pete and my dad recently passed away. God Bless you all.Susie Oreskovich Gornick
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Pete Ulicny
July 17, 2011
I remember that championship team and Mr. Duranko's performance very well. I have wonderful memories of a great person and player. God bless his family.
Jacqueline Hippler/Phillips
July 13, 2011
Pete & I were in the same graduating class ('62) at Jntn Catholic. He was very popular in school but he had a knack of making everyone else seem more important than himself. He lived his life with humility & hilarity and I don't know a soul who met Pete & did not love him. All I can say is "Heaven will never be the same after Pete arrives". Go for it Pete, God needs a good joke & a hardy laugh right now. Travel well to God my good friend!
July 13, 2011
What an encouragement to know that the "God of all comfort", as well as others, care about your feelings at this time. You are in my thoughts today.
--A recent fan
Michelle Salamon
July 12, 2011
I had the opportunity to meet Pete at the first Walk to Defeat ALS walk in Johnstown. My mom also passed away from this disease. Pete was very funny that day telling jokes. I will continue to walk for those battling ALS and for those who have courageously lost the battle in hopes of one day finding a cure.
July 12, 2011
I first met Pete at Pittsburgh Steeler & NFL Alumni meetings. He was a wonderful congenial, humorous man filled with genuineness. He always brightened the situation. He knew I was of the same ethinic background as he and he would say to me, "Slava Isusu Christu". He was a man's man. My heart is with his wife and family. His memory truly will be eternal. Bill Priatko
Tom Beer
July 12, 2011
With profound sadness we lost a giant of a man much, much too soon. Pete was my teammate, training camp roommate and good friend when I played with the Broncos in the late 60's. He came from the working class town of Johnstown, Pa.,and working class family and gave 110% every play while on the field. I pray Janet and the boys will take solace in knowing Pete was a giant among men and will never be forgotten. He is in a far better place where he can once again bench press 350 and run a 4.8. Rest well my dear friend.
COUNCIL RUDOLPH JR
July 12, 2011
We are in prayer for the family.
Pam Shuster
July 12, 2011
Pete came to visit my late husband Chuck Shuster when he, too was diagnosed with ALS. Deepest sympathy to the Duranko family. Pete was an inspiration to many. God Bless.
Tanisha
July 12, 2011
Dear Duranko family,
I hope that you continue to reflect on the good times that you had with Pete. Those times will help you shine even during these darkest hours. May the words of the 23rd Psalms verses 4,6 help the family through this difficult time, and it says
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell[a] in the house of the LORD
Forever.
July 12, 2011
Please allow us to extend our heartfelt sympathy. The Bible teaches that "God is love".(1John 4:16)Surely a God of love cares about you and your family at this time of grief. Take comfort in that love. You are in our prayers.
July 11, 2011
To the family of Pete Duranko, you have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved one. Our heavenly Father is with you, and He will revive your spirit and crush heart-Isaiah 57:15. (Erma L. Davis, Park Forest, IL.)
Lou Badia, Jr.
July 11, 2011
Prayers and condolences to Pete's family and friends.
Pete was a great football player and even greater person.
He set an example we should all learn to follow.
Rest In Peace, buddy.
Lou Badia, Jr
ND-66
Thomas Vaught
July 11, 2011
He was a star for the Broncos during a period when they were not too good. He was one player fans could count on to give it his best.
R Golay
July 11, 2011
To the the family of Pete Duranko - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that he will be missed by many.
william gallagher
July 11, 2011
One fine gentleman, brave and funny to the end! Rest in peace Pete! Go Irish and God bless always!
J. K. Moran
July 11, 2011
Perhaps the best defender on one of the greatest Fighting Irish defenses. Sensational effort was routine for him. May eternal rest be upon him.
Jeffrey Powlas
July 11, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Pete family. He was a great Human Being and will be greatly missed.
Jack Michaels
July 11, 2011
Great athlete and an even greater human being! Goodbye Pete..and thanks for being a friend!
July 11, 2011
One of the best to play for the Irish, Pete will be missed.
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