Richard “Dick” Attisano’s death at 95 leaves a lasting legacy in youth sports, education, and civic life.
Richard “Dick” Attisano, a lifelong advocate for youth sports, community service, and civic leadership, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Tapestry Senior Living in Moon Township. He was 95.
Born on September 17, 1929, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, Richard “Dick” Attisano lived a life marked by quiet dedication, leadership, and service.
From his early years as a student at Beaver Falls High School—where he served as the team manager for the football and basketball teams—Dick demonstrated a natural inclination for support, organization, and teamwork.
After graduating in 1947, he began working at Babcock & Wilcox’s Eastworks division in 1948, where he remained until his retirement in 1986.
During his time there, he not only built a solid career but also coached company softball teams, instilling camaraderie and sportsmanship in those he mentored.
A proud member of the Local 1082 United Steelworkers Union, Dick valued the dignity of labor and advocated for workers’ rights throughout his tenure.
Dick’s contributions extended far beyond his workplace. From 1957 to 1982, he coached young athletes in the Beaver Falls Recreation Department’s basketeers program.
He also dedicated over a decade to coaching at St. Mary’s Catholic grade school and more than two decades directing activities for Beaver Falls Senior Citizens.
As a member of the Beaver Falls American Legion Post 261, Dick took on numerous leadership roles including adjutant, finance director, post commander, and county commander.
His greatest passion, however, may have been American Legion baseball, which he directed for an astounding 40 years—nurturing generations of players with discipline and community pride.
His faith was equally important in his life. A longtime member and usher at St. Philomena’s Catholic Church and later St. Monica’s, he served the church community through the Holy Name Society and the church committee.
Dick also held a lifetime membership in the Beaver Falls Sons of Italy Lodge and served for 21 years on the Beaver Falls School Board, retiring in 2016 after a legacy of education advocacy.
Even into his 90s, Dick remained a regular presence at BFHS Tiger football games—his love for Beaver Falls and its youth never wavering.
He was deeply committed to his community, leaving behind a legacy that touched every corner of the town he loved.
Richard “Dick” Attisano Is Remembered as a Mentor, Leader, and Lifelong Advocate for His Hometown
Richard “Dick” Attisano passed away on July 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship, civic duty, and unwavering love for Beaver Falls.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Gertrude (Carvelli) Attisano, his parents Dominic and Celeste (Salvano) Attisano, sister Jean Garroway, and brothers-in-law Harry Garroway and Louis Grzelka.
Dick is survived by his three daughters: Cindy (Peter) Curry of Plymouth, MA; Marcy (Dr. Howard) Edington of Pittsburgh; and Carrie Suarez of Baden.
He also leaves behind five grandchildren—Collin (Katie), Phillip, Alexander (Cami), Gerry (Courtney), and Grace—and one great-grandson, Eli Suarez. His sister, Margaret (Peg) Grzelka, also survives him.
Family and friends will gather to honor Richard’s life on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Campbell’s Chippewa Funeral Home in Beaver Falls from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a remembrance service immediately following.
A private burial will take place at Grandview Cemetery.
In memory of Dick’s enduring commitment to community, memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver Falls American Legion Post 261, the Big Beaver Falls Education Foundation, or The Larry Bruno Foundation Hall of Achievement—all institutions that reflect the heart and soul of his life’s work.
Richard “Dick” Attisano lived not just for himself, but for the betterment of his neighbors, his city, and generations of youth who will benefit from the path he paved.
His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to echo through every gymnasium, classroom, and field in Beaver Falls.
