Col. Daniel R. Apostolu, USA (Ret)

Col. Daniel R. Apostolu, USA (Ret), of Glen Mills, PA, formerly of Springfield, PA, who dedicated his life to service, leadership, and faith, sadly passed away on August 10, 2026, at the age of 96.

Born in Kingsbridge section of Bronx, NY, he was the son of the late Daniel and Rose Mary (née Terrizzi) Apostolu.

Dan earned his B.S. in Industrial Management from Georgia Tech and his M.B.A. from Drexel University, laying the foundation for his professional journey.

In his senior year at Georgia Tech in 1951, Dan was promoted to Cadet Colonel and served as commander of the Army ROTC Regiment. Upon graduation, he was named a Distinguished Military Graduate and offered a Regular Army commission in the Infantry. During his four years of active duty, he served as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, followed by a combat tour in the Korean War as Platoon Leader and Company Commander of the Heavy Mortar Company, 224th Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Meritorious Service Medal. Later, he attended Army Ranger School at Ft. Benning, GA, where he was designated a distinguished graduate.

Dan continued his military career in the Army Reserve for another 20 years. He served as Battalion Commander, 157th Infantry Brigade (SEP), and G-3 Director of Plans and Operations, 79th ARCOM. He retired in 1975 with the rank of Colonel, after proudly serving his country for over 24 years.

Col. Apostolu built an honorable and distinguished military career, guided by the values of integrity, commitment, and service that defined his years in uniform. After retiring from the military, he brought that same discipline and leadership to the private sector, working in business operations, personnel administration, and financial administration within the health care industry.

Beyond his professional career, he was deeply invested in civic service. His role as President of the Springfield Township School Board from 1975 to 1977 stands as a testament to his commitment to education and the betterment of his community. A proud member of the Veteran’s group at Maris Grove, Dan also fostered close bonds with fellow servicemen and women and honored the spirit of comradeship.

His faith was a guiding force in his life. As a long-time member of Proclamation Presbyterian Church, Dan served faithfully as an Elder for many years. He found joy in teaching and attending Bible Studies, inspiring and supporting many within his church community. His unwavering dedication made a lasting impact and offered comfort and guidance to countless individuals.

Dan was the beloved husband of the late Jeannette T. (née Tustin) Apostolu; the loving father of D. Christian Apostolu (Maryann) and Karen E. McGonigle (Patrick). He was the caring grandfather of Daniel C., Nicholas R., and Georgia K. Dan is predeceased by his brother, Leonard, and his sister, Gloria.

Family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives were uplifted by his example are invited to pay their respects and share in the remembrance of this remarkable life. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Proclamation Presbyterian Church, 278 S Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. A funeral service will follow commencing at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place thereafter at Glenwood Memorial Gardens, 2321 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Col. Daniel R. Apostolu, USA (Ret), would be appreciated to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, https://t2t.org/donate/.