Felix "Phil" A. Defino

Felix A. Defino, 89 of Heathrow, Florida, formerly of Moon Township, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on February 23, 2021.

Known as Phil to many, he was born at home in Swissvale, Pennsylvania on April 20,1931 to Rose and Frank V. Defino. He worked at his father’s construction company as a brick layer after graduating from Swissvale high school, until he entered the US Army in 1953 and honorably discharged in 1955. He then attended the University of Pittsburgh where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and subsequently a Master of Education degree. He was then ready to achieve his goal to teach math and science. His first teaching job was at East Pittsburgh High School where he fell in love with not only teaching, but his soon to be devoted wife of 54 years, Sarah (Sally) DeMatty Defino.

Phil then went on to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to earn a Master of Science degree in 1966. It was then that Phil and Sally were married, and he began a 32 year career at Robert Morris University where he achieved the position of Associate Professor and department chair of the Natural Sciences Department.

He became the proud father of two professional, caring and loving children, Frank A. Defino (Sharon, daughter-in-law) of Bridgeport, West Virginia and Susan Forbes (Donald, devoted and loving son-in-law) of Heathrow, Florida. He was the proud grandfather of Frank and Maria Defino and Jack Forbes. He is also survived by his sister, Amy Duran of Ponte Vedra, Florida, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Mike of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania and his sister, Theresa D’Angelo of Redmond, Washington.

He retired to Florida in 1998. Felix was devoted to his wife and his family and teaching. We lost a wonderful man who will always remain in our hearts.

Friends will be received Wednesday, March 3, 2021 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Copeland’s, 981 Brodhead Road, Moon Twp., where a funeral blessing service will be held on Thursday at 11am with Deacon Robert Jancart officiating.  Intermit will follow services at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

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