Daniel Chester Wisniewski

Daniel Chester Wisniewski, 89, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away on June 8, 2024. Born on November 14, 1934, in Erie, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Charles and Sophia Wisniewski (née Czerwinski). In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Constance Minichelli (Frank), and his son, James.

He is survived by his loving wife of many years, Janet (Levesque); his son, Charles (Sandy); his daughter, Jennie (Hugo); his cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Daniel Nathan, Isabella, and Mila; his great-grandson, Daniel Charles; and numerous nieces and nephews who will all remember him fondly.

A graduate of East High School in Erie, PA, Class of 1953, Daniel excelled academically and athletically, earning a football scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh. While at Pitt, he was also a distinguished wrestler, becoming an NCAA tournament qualifier. In 1957, he was drafted by the Baltimore Colts, but chose to complete his senior year and graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education.

Daniel honorably served as a U.S. Army reservist from 1958-1964. He furthered his education at Northern Illinois University, earning a Master's degree in Science in Health and Physical Education in 1970.

His professional career began in Erie, PA, at Memorial Tech High School before he moved on to Highland Park High School (HPHS) in Highland Park, Illinois in 1960. Affectionately known as Coach Wiz, he dedicated 34 years to teaching PE and Health and coaching wrestling and football until his retirement in 1994. His coaching career was highlighted by numerous accolades, including the development of the first wrestling team cultural exchange in 1980, a Gold Award from Scholastic Coaches Magazine and Franklin Life in 1988, and the proclamation of "Daniel Wisniewski Day" on January 12, 1990, by the Highland Park Mayor, in honor of his 300th match victory. With a record of 344 wrestling match wins, he was the most successful coach in HPHS's 100-year history. He was inducted into the IHSA Wrestling Coaches' Hall of Fame in 1997.

Daniel's life was one of perseverance, dedication, and commitment to the youth he served. His legacy is not only in his family but also in the countless students and athletes he mentored. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made in Daniel's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org. A private mass will be celebrated by the family at a later date.