Dominick Francis DeSanno

Of Pittsburgh, originally from Brooklyn, NY, age 95, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

Born the son of the late Cono DeSanno and the late Madelene (Delia) DeSanno. 

Beloved husband of Josephine (Braccia) DeSanno for over 68 years.

Loving father of Anthony (Linda) DeSanno of NJ, Madeline (Jackie Vincunas) DeSanno of Churchill, Rita DeSanno of NC, and the late Valerie DeSanno McCormick.

Preceded in death by his siblings; Frank DeSanno (WW II Purple Heart recipient), Marie DeSanno, Anne (the late Henry) Coppi, Thomas (the late Mary) DeSanno, Michael (the late Ann) DeSanno, Vincent (the late Theresa) DeSanno, John (surviving spouse, Lisa) DeSanno.

Also survived by grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In 1950, at age 20, Dom entered the U.S. Marine Corps, and proudly served his country during the Korean War. After serving two years of active duty and two in the reserves, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. Not long after returning to civilian life, Dom met the love of his life, Josephine “Jo” Braccia at a dance in 1955. Soon after, they married and raised four children in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, although Dom always had the desire to reside in Florida!

Dom attended trade school where he gained various skills including woodworking. For many years, he was employed as a union carpenter and was involved with many significant projects, such as the Williamsburg Bridge and the original World Trade Center in New York City, where he served as a finishing carpenter. Even outside of work, Dom enjoyed woodworking around the home, where he also amassed the finest collection of tools. Everyone knew, Dom could fix almost anything! He also instilled the practice of always reading the instructions!

In 2004, Dom and Jo built a home in Lake George, NY, their favorite vacation spot in all seasons. Over the years they shared many memories with family and friends on Carefree Lane, an appropriate name for their retirement residence!

Dom was incredibly proud of his Italian heritage; both of his parents immigrated from Italy in the early 1900’s in search for a better place to raise a family. He was an active Catholic within his parishes, both in Brooklyn and Lake George, having served as an usher and assisted at the food pantry in the latter. 

Dom was one of a kind, filled with patience and kindness until the end. He impacted everyone he met, leaving lasting impressions both on old friends and new acquaintances alike. His gentle soul will be greatly missed!

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to both the Southwestern Veteran’s Center and Suncrest Hospice for their kind and compassionate care for Dom.

A Blessing Service followed by presentation of Military Honors will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Southwestern Veterans Center, 7060 Highland Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15206. 

Arrangements are entrusted to the Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 700 Linden Ave. at Cable, East Pittsburgh, PA 15112, (412) 824-8800.