Daniel R. Cox, Sr. 84, of West Boylston, died Wednesday, June 7th at UMass Memorial Hospital – University Campus. He leaves his wife of 64 years, Joan (Cumming) Cox; two sons, Daniel R. Cox, Jr. and his wife, Beth of Attleborough, and David W. Cox and his wife, Kyu-Mee of Albuquerque, New Mexico; three sisters, Patricia Inzerillo of Worcester, Eileen Lohnes of Worcester, and Rita St. Dennis of Auburn; five grandchildren, Rachel Sims and her husband Ben, Brian Cox and his wife, Allie, Kelly Cox, Jennifer Cox, and Nicole Cox; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Caroline Hutchinson of Oxford.
Dan was born in Springfield, the son of John and Rita (Charbonneau) Cox. He graduated from South High School and then received his bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a master’s degree from Worcester State University. Dan was a physical education teacher in the Worcester school district for 40 years. In addition to playing football and basketball in high school, he was a lover of all sports – both in person and on television. Dan was an active member and officer at both the Educational Association of Worcester and the Massachusetts Teachers Association and enjoyed playing handball at the Central YMCA in Worcester during his younger days. Being active in the community, he also was a football and basketball referee for the local schools, served as a youth sports coach, and worked for many summers as a lifeguard at the pool at the Worcester Country Club. More than anything, Dan loved his family and he also loved to laugh at a good joke, an amusing story, and self-deprecating humor that was both entertaining and enjoyable for all who knew him.
Dan’s funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is assisting the family with arrangements.