Dambaugh

Dennis R. Dambaugh, 85, of Zelienople, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2024.

Born in Ellwood City on June 15, 1938, Denny was the son of Robert and Mildred (Weigel) Dambaugh and grew up in Harmony. He met Sally Lukes during high school, and they married on July 18, 1959. Together with their four daughters, they eventually settled in Zelienople.

After completing technical school, Denny became part owner of Mel-Den, a TV and appliance store on Main Street. When the business was sold, he transitioned to working at the Zelie borough electrical department, where he rose to the position of supervisor. Even after his retirement, Denny couldn’t stay idle and took up part-time work at Hovis Auto Parts.

Denny was a member of St. Peter’s Reformed Church in Zelienople. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to serving the community. He volunteered as a firefighter for both the Harmony and Zelienople fire companies for 50 years. His commitment led him to eventually become the fire chief. Additionally, Denny supported the community through his involvement with the Zelienople-Harmony Emergency Management Agency.

Denny’s warm and easygoing personality endeared him to everyone he met. Those who knew him will never forget his rosy cheeks, infectious smile, and the mischievous twinkle in his eye that made it difficult for him to pull off a joke. Denny was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever someone asked.

Denny embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm. He was a member of the Connoquenessing Valley Bowman, Zelienople Sportsmen’s and Fly Pittsburgh Kite clubs. His passion for flying stunt kites extended to making and sewing his own. Additionally, Denny enjoyed hunting, fishing (both in his boat and on the ice in his shanty), tying his own fishing flies, camping and beach outings. His love for travel led him and Sally to spend several winters exploring warmer destinations in their camper.

Denny was a great dancer, at weddings dancing to “Proud Mary” with his daughters, polkas, on roller skates with Sally, and even square dancing as part of the Keystone Squares.

Denny’s memory will always be treasured by his daughters, Mary Kay (David) Murphy of Fort Myers, Terry Jacobs of Zelienople, Susan (Donald) Cade of Johnstown, Patty (Chet) Chang of Painted Post; his grandchildren, Bree and Shawn Lenehan, Brian and Nathan Cade, Michelle Jacobs and Alex and Abby Chang; and his six great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and stepmother, Lois Dambaugh, Denny was preceded in death by his wife, Sally, who passed away on June 13, 2013.

DAMBAUGH — Friends of Dennis R. Dambaugh, who died Monday, May 13, 2024, will be received for visitation from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday with a service immediately following at 7 p.m. at BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME, 324 E. Grandview Ave., Zelienople, with Pastor David Bordy officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Denny’s honor to the Harmony Fire District, 543 Main St., Harmony, PA 16037.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.boylanfuneralservices.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.