Dave Tanilli

Dave Tanilli, 65, of Sarver, formerly of Brackenridge, passed away peacefully Sunday, January 10, 2021 after a month-long heroic battle with the Corona virus, surrounded by his family at St. Margaret’s Hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born November 9, 1955 to the late Leo and Lena Tanilli. Dave met his wife, Janie of 43 years at Highlands High School in 1972. She was the head majorette, and he played the trumpet in the marching band. They were high school sweethearts and married in 1977.

            Dave worked for Thrift Drug Co. from 1977 to 1997 working his way up to the corporate office. In 1997 he was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning his own business. He founded and owned JDI Sales and Consulting, a successful retail brokerage company for over 20 years, until he retired in 2018. Dave loved people and he loved to make them laugh. He was often called the “life of the party.” He was a passionate man who worked hard, loved deeply, and would do anything for anyone. His friends, of which there are many, were his family. He always had a smile on his face and approached life with an open heart. He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan, with the Steelers in particular. He was a 25-year season ticket holder and was their number one fan, win or lose. He and his wife traveled the country for sports memorabilia to add to his collection and fine antiques for their home. Dave had a deep affection for all animals, and truly loved his feline companions. He loved all genres of music and attended many live concerts, from jazz to hard rock. Dave loved to garden and grew beautiful hydrangea plants which he picked every day in the summer and brought into their home.

            Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Janie Tanilli; brothers Mark and Bob and sister Maria. Also, his goddaughter Morgan Tanilli, god son Christian Tanilli, two nieces Brittany Bock, Rachel Tanilli, nephew Anthony Tanilli and his loving mother-in-law Eileen Mosley, who loved him like a son. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by a brother Larry Tanilli. Dave wouldn’t want us to be sad, he would want us to celebrate his wonderful life. This summer, there will be a celebration of his life when we can hopefully get together and share our love and memories of our beloved David.

            Visitation 4-7 PM Thursday in the Duster Funeral Home, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum, 724-224-1526 where services will be held on Friday at 11 am. with Rev. Jack Hartman, officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Airy Cemetery, Natrona Heights.

VISIT:dusterfh.com