Donato ‘Danny’ D'Agostino Sr., consummate family man

Donato "Danny" Antonio D'Agostino Sr., 90, of Lewes passed away peacefully at his home Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, to the comfort of God's embrace, with his devoted wife Adelaide "Della" at his side.  He was born Feb. 23, 1930, in Washington, D.C., to Italian immigrant parents, Antonio and Filomena (Gentilcore) D'Agostino.

 Danny enjoyed a loving and large family upbringing.  He graduated from McKinley Tech High School in D.C., where he was active and talented in sports, cheerleading and various social activities - even awarded the “Best Dressed” senior. 

 Danny married his junior high school sweetheart and love of his life, Della D’Amico, and they celebrated nearly 70 years of marriage.  They had a special relationship and were everlasting partners.  As a proud and loving father, Danny was a teacher, coach, supporter and counselor. He was active in the Catholic Church, as well as civic, sports and school activities. He enjoyed his hobbies of collecting bicentennial quarters, building birdhouses, and tending to his home and yard.  He immensely loved the company of his family, relatives, and friends.  When you met Danny, you always felt welcomed, and he had a special ability to make you feel part of his family.  He cherished Italian traditions, American patriotism, special celebrations, family reunions, and holidays.  At his core, Danny was a consummate family man.  

Danny lived in Chillum, Md., for many years before moving to Lewes to enjoy his retirement with his wife. He worked for the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission for over 30 years as a senior designing engineer and draftsman. Danny was a mentor/supervisor to countless staffers, and he received numerous awards, certifications and honors.  

During his retirement years, Danny was a consultant, handyman, and volunteer for many community organizations.  He felt blessed to travel with his wife throughout the country and abroad.  Danny loved family visits and spending time together at the beach.  He leaves a legacy of love and memories.

In addition to his parents, Danny was preceded in death by his siblings:  Joseph, Philip, Nicholas, Rosalie and Antoinette.  He is survived by his beloved wife, Adelaide "Della" D'Agostino; his children:  Danny Jr. (Barbara), Terry Schott (Joe), Gina Rooney (Tim), Lori Gough (Nat) and Christine Dufrane;  his 14 grandchildren and their spouses;  his eight great-grandchildren; his sister, Katie Fratantuono; and his many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

 A private memorial Mass will be held at a later date with consideration to COVID-19 guidelines.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.

Donations in Danny's memory may be made to any charity of choice.

Please visit Danny's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.