Daniel J. Durso, Purple Heart recipient
Daniel J. Durso, 97, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022, accompanied by his family. Daniel was a beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend.
Dan was born Feb. 13, 1924, in Freeland, Pa. One of eight children, Dan learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and dedication from the late Joseph and Millie Durso. Dan served in the 702nd Tank Battalion of the U.S. Army. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his service and was honorably discharged in 1944.
After serving his country, Dan returned to Freeland, and began a career in industrial arts. He graduated from both Whitney Art School in Connecticut and Millersville University with a degree in education. He became a teacher and taught in the Governor Mifflin School District for more than 40 years, mentoring and befriending countless students and faculty members along the way. After retiring from teaching, Dan went into business with his wife, Grace, and took over the Tussie Mussie, turning it into a thriving gift and furniture store.
Dan met the love of his life, Grace Ferdinand, as children, and was re-introduced through the help of his friend and Grace's brother, Louis Ferdinand. The couple married in November 1956, and their daughter, the light of their lives, Dan’s precious package, was born three years later. The couple resided in Reading, Pa., until 2001 when they relocated to Rehoboth Beach to enjoy retirement.
Dan was an avid car enthusiast, sculptor, and in recent years, writer. Recently, Dan wrote “A World War II Soldier Thoughts and Memories A Trilogy," recounting his time in the war, as well as the challenges faced when returning to civilian life. He truly felt his calling was to help others and was always willing to help those in need. Dan will be deeply missed and remembered as a man who lived his life with dignity, grit, and determination.
Dan is survived by his wife of 65 years, Grace; his daughter, Denise and son-in-law Steve Carney of Rehoboth Beach; his granddaughters, Megan and Taylor Costanzo of Manhattan, N.Y.; and brother, Jack Durso of Basking Ridge, N.J.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Home of the Brave Foundation, 6632 Sharps Road, Milford, DE 19963, homeofthebravefdn.org, or an organization of your choosing.
No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones and friends when a service is scheduled.
