DeSantis

Donald DeSantis, 78, of Zelienople, formerly of Baden, passed peacefully at home in the presence of family, on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

Don was born May 5, 1947, in Sewickley, the fourth son of the late Josephine (Cicci) and Emil DeSantis.

He attended Ambridge area schools and Geneva College, earning his bachelor’s degree in education, followed by his master’s degree in reading from Westminster College. He married the love of his life, Margaret (Baum), in 1972, and, with her, lovingly raised their daughter, Jennifer. Don spent the entirety of his career teaching in the Freedom Area School District, where many students passed through his reading classroom, learning lifelong skills, not only in academics, but also in kindness and fellowship.

In addition to teaching, he was the Title I director and reading supervisor. His years of involvement with reading workshops at the University of Pittsburgh and with the school musicals at Freedom, allowed him to inspire students and share his love of learning and the arts, beyond the classroom.

A thoughtful man of deep faith, Don is survived by his loving wife, Margaret; daughter, Jennifer (Mark) Harmanos of Zelienople; grandchildren, Joseph, Emily and Madeline; along with his brother, Eugene (Nancy) DeSantis of Springfield, Va.; and nephews, Christopher (Melissa) DeSantis of Herdon, Va., and Jeff (Julie) DeSantis of Baden.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Emil and Jerome; and his nephew, Jason.

DESANTIS — The family of Donald DeSantis, who died Saturday, May 17, 2025, will be receiving guests from 10:30 a.m. until the Mass of Christian burial at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at Divine Grace Parish, St. Gregory Church, 2 W. Beaver St., Zelienople.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to be made in Don’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Arrangements were entrusted to BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME, Zelienople.

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

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