Coach Frank Niglio passed away on February 20, 2025, at the age of 75, at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.
The community of Mount Carmel mourns the loss of a cherished educator, coach, and family man, Frank C. “Dabby” Niglio, who passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
Frank Niglio is preceded in death by his wife, Denise Niglio, and father, Paul Niglio. Denise passed away in 2006; however, details surrounding her demise remain concealed so far.
In 1993, Frank Niglio married Denise Mirarchi, and they had two daughters.
Frank Niglio, coach, is survived by their mother, Helene Niglio, and his two daughters, Tara Michaels and her husband David, and Cassandra Niglio and her fiance, Jayson Stellar.
He also left behind his four grandchildren, Chloe, Cameron, Quintin, and Cortland Michaels.
Niglio’s grandson, Quintin Michales, has followed in his footsteps. Presently, he is a linebacker at Lewisburg Varsity Football. Besides football, he also plays basketball and lacrosse.
Likewise, Niglio is also survived by three brothers, Paul Niglio and his wife Stephanie, Stanley Niglio, and Bobby Joe Niglio and his wife Trish, as well as cousins, nieces, nephews, and other family members.
A funeral Mass to honor Frank’s life will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 1, at the Church of the Holy Angels with Father Andrew Stahmer as the celebrant, followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Kulpmont.
Frank Niglio Dedicated His Professional Life to Coaching and Education Until His Retirement!
Ex-NFL star Frank C. “Dabby” Niglio was born in Kulpmont on August 20, 1949, to his parents, Paul and Helene Niglio.
A lifelong resident of Kulpmont, Niglio graduated from Mount Carmel Area High School in 1967, where he made his mark as a talented wide receiver on the school’s football team.
He continued his education at Yankton College in South Dakota. He earned his degree in 1971 while excelling on the college’s football team.
Niglio’s passion for athletics and education led him to a fulfilling career as a teacher and coach at North Schuylkill High School.
He dedicated his professional life to coaching and education. He taught physical education and health from 1971 until his retirement in 2006.
Niglio’s student, Janelle Moyer, penned a lengthy eulogy following his tragic passing. She wrote, “I was lucky enough to have him as a coach, and a very good friend of my dad’s.”
As a coach, he significantly contributed to the school’s athletic programs. Niglio served as the head coach for the girls’ and boys’ track and field teams, the head coach for girls’ volleyball and boys’ basketball, and the assistant coach for football.
Frank also extended his coaching talents to Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School and the Mount Carmel Area School District.
In addition to his sound personal and professional life, Niglio’s commitment to his faith was evident through his active involvement.
He was a member of the Church of the Holy Angels, formerly St. Mary’s Church, and had a life membership in the Knights of Columbus, Third Degree, in Kulpmont.
He also served as president of the Ed Romance Hall of Fame, continuing his dedication to local sports after retirement.
