Daniel J. Furzi

Daniel Joseph Furzi, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on December 17, 2013 in Colorado Springs, Colorado at the age of 76. He was born in Trinidad, Colorado on January 6, 1937.

Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings; Clifford Morelli, Dominic Morelli, Anna Giltner, and loving wife Eileen Furzi.

Daniel is survived by sister Clethia McHugh, sister Camel (Bob) Skalko, daughters Mary (Curtis) Esch, Elaine ( Alan) Peterson, son Gino Furzi, grandchildren Abby, Hannah, Adam Peterson, Mark and Julia Esch. There are numerous nieces and nephews.

Daniel was drafted into the United States Army and valiantly served his country in the Army band from 1959 to 1961. He graduated from Trinidad High School, earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Colorado University, a Master’s Degree from Western State College and an Educational Administration Certificate from University of Wyoming.

After his military experience, Daniel taught in Pueblo School District 70 from 1961 to 1963. He then moved to Widefield School District 3 (1963 to 1991) and worked vigorously to improve lives by teaching music, counseling, coaching and being the key administrator who developed the Widefield Community Center into what it is today. In addition, Dan was the Lay Director of the Colorado Springs Cursillo movement, President of the Fountain Valley Jaycees, and President of the Community Educators Association.

Daniel, “Papa,” as his five grandchildren called him, was a proud Italian. He was a member of the Italian Band Masters and continued as a lifelong musician who volunteered his time and talent. Daniel and his grandchildren became Papa and the Grands and they toured Colorado Springs and Pueblo areas performing at nursing homes.

Daniel was an avid CU Buff fan, golfer, and humanitarian.

Visitation, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday December 22, 2013, St. Dominic Catholic Church, 5354 S. Hwy 85/87. Rosary, 7 p.m. Sunday, St. Dominic Catholic Church, 5354 S. Hwy 85/87. Mass of Christian Burial, 11 a.m. Monday December 23, 2013, St. Dominic Catholic Church, 5354 S. Hwy 85/87. Burial, Evergreen Cemetery, Colorado Springs.