Daniel Lee Zajac Sr.

Daniel 'Danny' Lee Zajac, Sr., 67, a lifelong resident of Monaca passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025 in his Monaca residence. Danny was also known by his nicknames ZA and Bugman.
Born in Rochester, PA, Danny is survived by his beloved wife, Jacqueline Hiwiller Zajac, with whom he shared nearly five decades of marriage after tying the knot on June 22, 1980, in New Castle. Their love story began when Jackie was just 14 years old, and it blossomed into a partnership that was a testament to their devotion to each other. He leaves behind two proud sons, Daniel Lee Zajac, Jr. and Ryan Michael Zajac, and his cherished granddaughter, Danica Leigh Zajac, who brought him immeasurable joy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William George and Eleanor Louise (Zayak) Zajac, his sister, Tammy Shively, his in laws Blaine and Florence Hiwiller and brother in-law, Larry Hiwiller. Danny's memory will be honored by his surviving siblings Donny Zajac (Annette), Sharon Strickler, Bill Zajac (Lissa), and Susan Clancy (John). His extended family includes his brothers-in-law, Joseph Shively and Tom Hiwiller (Patty), and sister-in-law, Penny (Clark) Pugh, as well as numerous nieces and nephews: Joey, Jesse, Elie, Raelene, Rachel, Shawna, Zachary, Travis, Dustin, Abby, Lee, Larry (Amanda) Hiwiller, Jennifer (George) Thomas, Tom (Katrina) Hiwiller and Paul (Abbey) Pugh and numerous great nieces and great nephews.
A graduate of Monaca High School's class of 1976, Danny was the co-captain of the 1975 WPIAL Championship Football Team, a role that foreshadowed his lifelong passion for sports. His career began at Rentokil Pest Control, where he earned the nickname 'Bugman,' a name that stuck with him through his subsequent positions at Horsehead Inc. as a furnace operator attendant, with the labor union at the Shell Oil's 'cracker' plant, and finally at Hussey Copper in the storeroom.
Danny's commitment to his community shone through with his love of sports as he coached the Mighty Mites and Midget Football teams and the Turners' Little League Baseball Team, leading them to six consecutive championships. His leadership on and off the field was recognized by his membership in the Monaca Quarterback Club, Laborers' Union #833, and the former Steelworkers Union.
An avid University of Michigan Football fan, Danny's enthusiasm for sports was matched by his love for the outdoors. Deer hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes, offering him moments of tranquility and a connection to nature that he deeply treasured.
Friends will be received on Thursday, April 10th from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca where services will be held on Friday at 11 am.
To share online condolences, add photos, and get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com