Richard Danko Sr.

1942 - 2021

Richard Danko Sr. of Gino Merli Veterans Center, Scranton, and formerly of Nanticoke, passed peacefully Friday, Feb. 12, 2021.

Rich was born in September 1942, the son of the late Joseph and Albina Danko. He was a graduate of Nanticoke High School, Class of 1961, and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, stationed in Missouri from 1961 to 1964. He returned to Nanticoke following his service and married his love, Joann Collepardi, in 1972. Together they raised four children, Darrin, Richard Jr., Jamie and Kristen.

Rich spent his working years as postman for the U.S. Postal Service, an automobile salesman and finally as a security guard until retirement. He was fortunate to win salesman of the year on five different occasions with four different companies. He was always proud of this accomplishment.

Dad spoke fondly of his days growing up and getting into as much trouble as he could. There was never an envelope he wouldn't push or exit door that didn't double as an entrance. This rang true for the entirety of his life.

Above all he loved each of us. He coached and/or announced for soccer, football and Little League. He enjoyed picking up the neighborhood kids and taking them to practices, events and tournaments. He was sure to never miss a field hockey game or anything we were participating in. Dad loved taking us anywhere from Daytona, Little League World Series, BC Open, Niagara Falls, Wildwood Crest/Cape May and day jaunts to the state parks.

There weren't many experiences we missed out on with Dad. If it was happening and any of us had interest, we were in the car on our way there. There was no drive that was too long … but we would never take that toll road! Dad wanted to squeeze every last drop out of life and encouraged us to do the same. We will be sure to follow his wish.

Richard was preceded in death by son, Rick.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 48 years on Feb. 23, Joann; son, Darrin Conrad, Wilkes-Barre; son, Jamie and his wife, Shannon; grandchildren, Allie and Sydney, Kingston; daughter, Kristen and her husband, Jason Cunningham; grandchildren, Bryce and Adelyn, Nanticoke; sister Maryann and her husband, Michael Gabel, Nanticoke; nieces, Michelle and Meredith; brother, Albert, Florida; grandchildren, Brooke and Camryn.

The family would like to thank the wonderful care Dad was given at the Gino Merli Center, Scranton. He would be the first to tell you his life should have never lasted as long as it had from a childhood bout with rheumatic fever, aortic valve replacements and finally dementia. He had deep respect for the medical professionals and staff who enabled him to live a good life.

Care has been entrusted to Mamary-Durkin Funeral Service, 59 Parrish St, Wilkes-Barre. Due to COVID-19, there will be no calling hours. A celebration of life will be held when climate allows. As in true fashion and his favorite line … he's glad you got to meet him.