Daniel A. Taddei

October 29, 1946-November 16, 2024

Daniel A. Taddei, 78, Altoona, passed away Saturday evening, after a brave four-month battle with lymphoma. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late Angelo and Mary (Degol) Taddei.

Danny married Gloria J. Delloso on June 29, 1968 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

He is survived by his faithful and loving wife of 56 years; his three devoted children: Brenda Ajay (Bill), David Taddei (Shawna) and Cindy Saracoglu (Ercu) all of Altoona; his seven grandchildren: Brandis, Billy and Brooke Ajay, John and Karis Taddei and Ilayna and Sofia Saracoglu.

Danny was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Taddei.

He was a graduate of Penn State University, where his earned a degree in Business Administration, with the dream of one day owning his own business. Danny dreamed of creating a place where people could gather, share meals, and make memories-just as he had with his own family.

Danny was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star in recognition of heroism, outstanding achievement, and meritorious service. After returning home in 1969, he and Gloria, now new parents, began building their life together. His dream of creating a future for his family led him to DelGrosso’s Restaurant, where he continued to work alongside his father-in-law, Chef Philip Delloso. Under Chef Philip’s guidance and inspired by the DelGrosso’s success as a family-run business, Danny refined his culinary craft and embraced the values of hard work, family, and community-principles that would one day inspire him to build his own lasting legacy.

On November 16, 1978, Danny and Gloria opened the doors to Allegro Restaurant in Altoona, a premier fine dining establishment, where “fine cuisine is not just our profession or hobby, it’s our way of life.” The Allegro quickly became a beloved institution in Blair County, serving the community for over four decades.

Danny was a well-respected businessman, known for his dedication to his family, church and his community. Wealth was never his goal, he believed the greatest reward was building something lasting, meaningful and bringing people together. He was truly blessed by his family and Danny was overjoyed to have all three of his children-Brenda, David and Cindy-work alongside him. Together, the Taddei family created a business that would continue to thrive through the next generation.

He was a mentor to countless young people who got their start at Allegro and have gone on to become successful leaders in their communities, teaching them the value of hard work, integrity and dedication. Danny was a role model, not just as a chef, but as a man of character and conviction. Allegro was more than just a restaurant, it was his home, and when you walked through those doors, you were a part of his extended family.

Danny’s commitment to his community extended beyond the walls of Allegro, he most recently served as chairman of the board of directors for the Blair County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority.

He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Danny loved his country, community, Penn State football and especially loved his family and friends. He would ask us all to honor his memory by celebrating the joy and love he brought into the lives of those who knew and cared for him.

Friends will be received from 3-8 pm on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, where a vigil for the deceased will be held.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday, November 22, 2024 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 5519 6th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 with Fr. John Lynam, celebrant and concelebrated by Fr. Michael Pleva and Fr. Brian Norris. Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery with military honors.

The family kindly requests that contributions be made in Danny’s memory to: St. Vincent DePaul Food for Families, 2201 Union Ave., Altoona, Pa. 16601 or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516/ www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.