David Progar

David Albert Progar, 81, of O'Hara Township, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and impact on all who knew him. Preceded in death by parents, Genevieve and Joseph Progar; and sister, Genevieve Patla. Beloved husband of 56 years to Joanne (Ruscetti) Progar. Loving father of Jodi Rupert, Tracey (Dominic) Perry, Dana (David) Hunter, and David (Meredith) Progar. Grandfather of Josh (Keira) Rupert, Luke Rupert, Sam Perry, Joseph Perry, Eleanor Perry, Gia Hunter, Tyson Hunter, Nora Progar, Ava Progar, and David Jonathan Progar. He is also survived by nine nieces and nephews. Dave was a proud Springdale Dynamo, and graduate of California University of Pennsylvania, where he studied teaching and played both baseball and basketball. His competitive spirit and commitment to excellence were apparent early on, setting the stage for a life filled with accomplishments and giving back to others. His passion for sports, especially basketball, became a hallmark of his career, leading him to become an assistant coach at Fox Chapel High School. In the late 70s, he played a key role in guiding the Foxes to both a state championship and took over as head coach and led them to a WPIAL Championship, moments that he cherished throughout his life. In 1981, Dave's coaching career took him to the University of Pittsburgh, where he served as an assistant coach for the basketball team until 1984. He knew how to connect with young athletes (his grandkids included) and instill in them a sense of discipline, teamwork, and tenacity. Beyond his players and family, Dave was a coach to all whom he encountered. After leaving coaching, Dave transitioned into the real estate business, where he worked for Howard Hanna as a broker for decades and led their New Homes Division. Dave's professional achievements pale in comparison to the impact that he made on his family. He routinely put his children's needs before his own and was everyone's biggest supporter. Pirates games, Bethany Beach, coconut donuts, late-night ice cream runs, and everyone being together were some of his favorite things. Dave's magnetic personality, compassion, and sense of humor touched countless lives. Whether it was sitting in the stands watching his grandson's football practice, listening to his wife talk about her day, or befriending the server at a local restaurant, Dave loved people unconditionally. His joy and hard-working spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Friends and family will be received from 1 to 5 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at the BURKET-TRUBY FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES, INC., at 421 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont, PA 15139. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, at St. Edward Church - Christ the King Parish, 448 Walnut St., Pittsburgh, PA 15238. Everyone please meet at church. Interment to follow at Springdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sports Matter (www.sportsmatter.org) or the American Heart Association (www.heart.org).