ADVERTISING

Daniel J. Pavlic

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | May 03, 2025

Daniel Joseph Pavlic, age 87 of McCandless Twp. and formerly of Elizabeth Twp., peacefully went home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on May 2, 2025. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud Croatian-American, Dan lived a life full of music, faith, and devotion to his family and heritage. He is survived by his loving wife and soulmate of 62 years, Nancy (Dziak) Pavlic, who stood by his side through every season of life.

Dan was born May 16, 1937 in Versailles, he was a son of the late Joseph and Lucy (Burkovich) Pavlic. Born with a love for music, Dan began performing as a solo accordionist at the age of 8, enchanting local audiences at events like Kennywood's Croatian Day. By high school, he was performing with the "Cafe Boys," delighting crowds with his talent and charm. After graduating from McKeesport High School in 1955, he went on to study music at Duquesne University, where he was a featured accordionist and dancer with the renowned Duquesne University Tamburitzans. It was during his time with the "Tammies" that he fell in love with Nancy as they performed and toured the country together.

Following his graduation, Dan proudly served his country as a Captain in the Airborne Rangers, serving in Germany, from 1960 to 1965. He later earned a master's degree in business administration and dedicated his professional life to Robert Morris University, where he served in various roles and was a beloved golf coach. His mentorship left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.

Dan was the rock of the family - a true patriarch who led with quiet strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. He was unconditionally loved by his late son, Jeffrey (Denise) Pavlic, and his daughters Karen (John) Aromando and Pamela (Charles) Cubelic. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth (Dean) Maddox, Daniel (Emily) Aromando, Victoria Cubelic, Christian Aromando, Charles J. Cubelic, and Josh Cooley; his great-grandchild Cody Arneth; his brother Robert (Debra) Pavlic of Stuart, FL; his sister Annette (Allan) Weiss of Mt. Vernon; and also nieces and nephews.

He was an avid golfer and fisherman, a devoted fan of lamb roasts, and a proud celebrator of his Croatian heritage as a member of the CFU Lodge #146 of Versailles. He also had a deep love of Slovenian polkas and Pittsburgh Sports - cheering on his hometown teams (with slightly wavering loyalty and a few expletives.) But above all, his greatest interest and deepest joy was always his family.

Those who knew Dan will remember his sharp sense of humor, his unwavering values, and his black-and-white, straight-laced approach to life. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, tradition, and strength - but most importantly, a heart that beat with a deep and abiding love of his family.

Friends will be received in the Daniel F. Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory, 4504 Walnut St., Versailles Borough, McKeesport, PA 15132 (412-678-3454) on Monday, May 5, 2025 from 3 PM to 8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 10 AM in Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael's Church in Elizabeth Twp. with Fr. Thomas Burke officiating. Procession and burial will follow to Sacred Heart Cemetery, Monongahela. Memorial contributions in Dan's name should be made to the Duquesne University Tamburitzans, 1430 Superior Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15212. www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

Originally published May 03, 2025.

Other deaths:
"Paul F. Merlino Jr" || "Patricia Ann “Molly” …"