David Leo LaSota

It is with great sadness that the family of David Leo LaSota, 78, of Washington, announce his passing Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Despite developing such an aggressive disease, he remained steadfast and strong throughout the challenges of treatment and beat the odds in many ways, aided in large part by prayer, kindness and generous encouragement from his family and friends, which made the last two years enjoyable despite hardships. Born in Dormont in August of 1946, Dave grew up in Canonsburg, attending a one-room schoolhouse during his elementary years. He enjoyed telling everyone he met stories of his mischievous antics as a youngster. He straightened out during his late teen years and went on to graduate with a bachelor's degree from California University of Pennsylvania. Following college, Dave joined the Navy and served four years of active duty on the USS John Kennedy Aircraft Carrier, including tours in the Mediterranean, followed by 20 years of service in the Naval Reserves. He was particularly proud of his military service and greatly appreciative of all others who served. Dave dedicated his entire 40+ year career to Consol Energy, serving in the purchasing and materials management departments, making many lifelong friends over the years. On March 15, 1986, he married Denise Bunner LaSota, who he often referred to as his "Cinderella Bride." He was a member of the Church of Christ until his death. Dave felt that his most important job was that of a husband, father and grandfather, which he fulfilled with dependability and the utmost joy. Dave was so proud of his daughters and grandkids, and loved going on big and small adventures with them. A calm, compassionate, and somewhat reserved man socially, Dave had the amazing ability to talk to anyone, from any walk of life, connect with them and make them feel important, which was one of his best and most unique qualities. Throughout life, but especially in retirement, his interests included: feeding the birds; appreciating wildlife; doing yard work; relaxing on the driveway with his wife; playing with his grandchildren; vacationing with his family, most of all Myrtle Beach; socializing with his fellow retirees; and eating a good slice of watermelon. Surviving him is his wife of nearly 40 years, Denise LaSota. Left to cherish his memories are his daughters: Emily (Kat) LaSota of Hinckley, Ohio; and Kylie (Scott) Hand of Drexel Hill; grandchildren, Olive and Henry LaSota, as well as a grandson expected to be born in September. Also surviving are his sister, Patricia (Rob) Simonin of Canonsburg; mother-in-law, MaryAnn Bunner; sister-in-law, Debra (Tom) Flickinger; brothers-in-law, Jeffrey (Renea) Bunner, and Matt (Kim) Bunner; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families. Preceding him in death were his parents, Leo J. and Estelle "Pat" Dillon LaSota; as well as his sister, Judy Stankus. Friends will be received from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m., the hour of services, Saturday, August 2, in the Piatt and Barnhill Funeral Home, 420 Locust Avenue, Washington. Interment will take place at a later date in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, accompanied with full Military Honors. Condolences may be expressed at www.piattandbarnhillfh.com. Piatt and Barnhill Funeral Directors, Inc., Charles R. Piatt, owner/supervisor, Andrew C. Piatt, director.