Mancini, Dennis Eugene, 71, Delmont, passed away January 27, 2026. Born December 18, 1954, to the late Felix and Edna (Miller) Mancini.
Survived by brother, Mark Mancini, cousins, and family that loved him. Dennis was a 1975 graduate of Western PA School for the Deaf, where he was a stellar athlete and held multiple school records for numerous years.
He was a talented craftsman for 25+ years at Valley Billiards.
Dennis had many friends in Johnstown that he enjoyed playing softball with and made countless friends over the years in Delmont.
He will be deeply missed by those who knew him. At Dennis’ request, there will be no viewing or service.
Donations may be made in Dennis memory to PSPCA. Arrangements in care of Simple Alternatives, Inc., Affordable Cremation & Sensible Funeral Care. Condolences may be made at SimpleAlternativeCares.com
Source: simplealternatives.com
Written by Stephen Rute ‘74
Dennis Mancini was a dedicated and versatile athlete during his years at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), participating in soccer (4 years), wrestling (2 years), basketball (4 years), and track (5 years). His
promising wrestling career was cut short when he suffered a broken arm during the championship match at the 2nd Invitational Wrestling Tournament in 1969, resulting in a default loss. This injury marked a turning point in his athletic path, leading him to focus fully on basketball.
Dennis went on to become an outstanding basketball player, earning numerous awards and serving as co-captain of the team during the 1974–75 season. He was also one of the few athletes to earn varsity letters for six years
testament to his talent, commitment, and leadership.
Following graduation, Dennis remained active in sports. He played basketball and softball for the Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf for many years. In addition, he was active in the hearing community, participating in darts, bowling, billiards, and slow-pitch softball tournaments. He was also a proud member of the American Softball Association.
Professionally, Dennis worked for Scott Hartin’s billiard business from 1988 until 2013, when the business was tragically destroyed by fire. When it reopened, he returned as a part-time employee in 2019, continuing to stay
involved in the work he enjoyed.
Dennis’s lifelong love of sports and his perseverance through setbacks have made him a valued member of the WPSD alumni community and an inspiring example of dedication.