Obituary published on Legacy.com by Dolan Funeral Home - North Chelmsford on Oct. 22, 2025.
Daniel Vincent Pioli, 90, of Lowell, MA, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his life, Joan, and their two children. He was the devoted husband of Joan A. (Piccione) Pioli, with whom he would have celebrated 67 wonderful years of marriage this December.
Born in Somerville, MA, Daniel was the cherished son of James Pioli of Italy and Nora (Flaherty) Pioli of Ireland. He graduated from Somerville High School in 1953 and earned an engineering degree from Northeastern University. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany, where his first daughter, Dawn, was born.
To his friends, he was Dan-but to those closest to him, he was simply "Papa." A man of quiet strength and endless devotion, Dan lived a life deeply rooted in love, family, and purpose. He married his soulmate, Joan, in 1958, and the two built a beautiful life together. As first-generation Americans, they shared a strong work ethic, a deep love for family, and an unwavering bond that grew stronger with each passing year.
Though Dan traveled often for work, his family was always his priority. He coached little league, made early morning hockey runs with his son Dino, and carved out special time for his daughters, Dawn and Dayna. Dayna, the youngest, was always "Daddy's little girl," while Dawn shared a quiet, meaningful bond with her father. Dan was her biggest cheerleader, especially during her dance years, when he became a beloved MC at her recitals-something the whole community looked forward to.
Dan was a proud grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of four-with one more on the way. Whether building Legos, playing with Play-Doh, snuggling during movie time, or cheering at sports games, he created unforgettable moments with each grandchild. In recent years, attending his great-grandsons Danny and Jackson's sporting events and playing with Greyson and Maxwell brought him immense joy.
Dan will be remembered as the calm in life's noise-a man of few words but great wisdom. He was a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, loyal friend, and steady presence. His love, quiet strength, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan A. Pioli; his son Daniel "Dino" Pioli and his wife Deborah of Merrimack, NH; his daughter Dawn Pioli of Lowell, MA; his son-in-law Alan Boisvert of Westford, MA; his brother Francis Pioli and wife Donna; his sister Diana Wyatt of New Hampshire; and his seven grandchildren: Lisa Gleason and husband John, Jaime Curran and husband Richard, Mikey Gower, Dylan Pioli and wife Tori, Devyn Pioli, Jenelle Goss and husband Patrick, and Jonathan Boisvert. He also leaves four great-grandchildren: Daniel Gleason, Jackson Gleason, Greyson Curran, and Maxwell Curran-with one more expected soon.
He was predeceased by his beloved daughter Dayna Boisvert and his brother James Pioli.
Funeral Notice Daniel V. Pioli of Lowell, MA, passed away on October 20, 2025. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at Dolan Funeral Home, 106 Middlesex Street,
North Chelmsford, MA. A service will be celebrated on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the Dolan Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dan's memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the
American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Dolan Funeral Home – (978) 251-4041. Guestbook and additional details at www.dolanfuneralhome.com
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