DAN TROPPOLI 

Daniel Anthony Troppoli Jr. went peacefully to his final home on Jan. 29, 2026, with his devoted wife by his side.

Though he lived a long and full 98 years, dementia quietly took the last two years from him and from those who loved him dearly.

Dan was born on Oct. 4, 1927, to Daniel Anthony Troppoli and Margaret Pape Troppoli in Pittsburgh, Pa.   He was an only child and a devoted son who spoke so lovingly about his mom and dad as well as his grandparents and the life they gave him growing up. He often spoke of his childhood and the friendships that stayed with him throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Mary Beth Bigley; son, Eric Troppoli; an infant grandson, Michael Yeager; a special mother-in-law, Lula Sorrels; and sister-in-law, Gaye Carter. 

Dan had a rare gift of connecting with people and never met a stranger – especially if there was a chance to talk about his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers.  He was a devoted fan and attended many games throughout the years.  After high school, Dan proudly served in the U.S. Army including the 11th Airborne Division, and later returned to service during the Korean War.  He carried a deep pride in his service and often shared stories of adventure, courage, and the joy of jumping from a plane.  When he came home, he built a life centered on family – marrying, raising six children and earning his degree from St. Francis College in Loretto, Pa.

Dan spent his career helping young people make their educational choices. He served in financial aid and admissions at St. Francis College and many years later, he moved to Virginia to accept the job of director of financial aid at the Virginia Military Institute and later as director of admissions until his retirement.  His kindness, patience and genuine care left a lasting mark on countless students and families, many of whom stayed in touch with words of gratitude long after graduation.

Dan enjoyed reading and playing golf with his buddies and trips to the beach with family and grandkids. He spent a lot of days on his faithful ole tractor mowing and bush hogging. He also loved sitting in his front yard on his bench at the end of the day and watching the beautiful sunsets. Though a city boy at heart, he grew to love his country life. 

Dan is survived by his devoted wife of 37 years, Pat Troppoli; his four children, Danielle (Steve) Arvanitakis, Jude (Suzie) Troppoli, Julia (David) Yeager, of Chicago, Ill., and Danny (Gina) Troppoli of Charlotte, N.C.; a daughter-in-law, Cecilia Troppoli of Little Rock, Ark.; also his two stepdaughters whose love and devotion to Dan were beyond words, Tammy (Jeff) Cash of Lexington and Marcy (Rick) Volk of Roanoke.  He leaves behind 20 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.  He spent many hours telling his grandchildren stories about his childhood and spending time with them at horseback riding lessons, ballet lessons and school plays.  Dan was dearly loved and will be greatly missed especially by his special grandson and best buddy, Spencer Cash, and special granddaughter, Lula Volk, who is the keeper of all of his stories. Alexis and Meg Cash will cherish their memories forever of time spent with their Pawpaw. He also leaves behind seven brothers-in-law, Steve, Roy, David, Rodney and Keith Sorrels and Stover Dalton and Mike Carter; special sisters-in-law, Ruth Dalton, Nina, Kim, Katie and Linda Sorrels; along with many nieces and nephews.  They all thought the world of Dan and were so kind to him throughout the years. 

A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. at Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Home by Pastor Tim Stalnaker. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.  Interment will be held at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens at a later date due to weather conditions.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.  The family wishes to thank the caregivers of ConnectionsPlus Healthcare + Hospice for their compassion, kindness and loving support during this difficult time.