Community Remembers Dan Dillon as Selfless Advocate

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Many are mourning the loss of local human services advocate Daniel Dillon, 79, who passed away on Monday, Jan. 4, at Berkshire Medical Center from complications of COVID-19.

Born June 14, 1941, and a graduate of St. Joseph's High School and Berkshire Community College, Dillon held many important roles throughout his lifetime including as a soldier, a leader, and a helping hand.

"I had the privilege to know and to work with Dan Dillon for nearly 20 years," President and CEO of Greylock Federal Credit Union John Bissell said. "He set the standard for community service, and service above self. In every capacity, from community volunteer roles to his leadership of the Berkshire United Way, to his engagement with local politics, and his part-time role at Greylock, Dan demonstrated how deeply he cared for all of the people in this region. We will miss his tireless energy, his upbeat spirit, and his Irish charm."

Dillon was president of Berkshire United Way for 12 years and, in 2005, was presented the Francis X. Doyle Award by the Berkshire Health Systems Board of Trustees for his commitment to those in the community who need help. In 2005, Berkshire United Way presented him the Helping Hands, Caring Heart Award, which was then renamed in his honor as the Daniel C. Dillon Helping Hands, Caring Hearts Award.

"In many ways, Dan Dillon was larger than life. A true local hero who embodied Berkshire United Ways tagline — Here for Good," President and CEO of Berkshire United Way Candace Winkler said. "Whether playing Santa Claus at the annual tree lighting ceremony in Pittsfield or raising money to address social challenges, he inspired others to volunteer and give back to the community. All of us at Berkshire United Way are saddened by his passing but his legacy will live on through the Daniel C. Dillon Helping Hands, Caring Hearts Award."

A 2005 press release announcing Dillon's retirement said: "His leadership has been characterized by a positive attitude, creative ideas, insightful thought process, and a tireless work ethic."

After retiring from BUW in that same year, Dillon took leadership as the relationship development officer for Greylock Federal Credit Union, where he benefited staff by creating fun events to encourage employee engagement. It was said that playing Santa Claus was Dillon's favorite community role.

Pittsfield ZBA Member Recognized for 40 Years of Service

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
12:23PM / Thursday, April 25, 2024

Albert Ingegni III tells the council about how his father-in-law, former Mayor Remo Del Gallo who died at age 94 in 2020, enjoyed his many years serving the city and told Ingegni to do the same. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — It's not every day that a citizen is recognized for decades of service to a local board — except for Tuesday.

Albert Ingegni III was applauded for four decades of service on the Zoning Board of Appeals during City Council. Mayor Peter Marchetti presented him with a certificate of thanks for his commitment to the community.

"It's not every day that you get to stand before the City Council in honor of a Pittsfield citizen who has dedicated 40 years of his life serving on a board or commission," he said.

"As we say that, I know that there are many people that want to serve on boards and commissions and this office will take any resume that there is and evaluate each person but tonight, we're here to honor Albert Ingegni."

The honoree is currently chair of the ZBA, which handles applicants who are appealing a decision or asking for a variance.

Ingegni said he was thinking on the ride over about his late father-in-law, former Mayor Remo Del Gallo, who told him to "enjoy every moment of it because it goes really quickly."

"He was right," he said. "Thank you all."

The council accepted $18,000 from the state Department of Conservation and Recreation and a  $310,060 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All program.