Daniel Robert Civis

Daniel Robert Civis, age 70, of Forest Hill, Maryland passed away on October 20, 2021 at his winter residence in Leesburg, Florida. Born and raised in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, he is the son of James and Patricia (Fisher) Civis, both preceding him in death. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving for 2 years on active duty and 4 years in the reserves. A graduate of Kutztown University, he married his wife, Mary Jo (Bickford) in September of 1979, and went on to train and work as a civilian for the Department of the Army as a Quality Assurance Specialist/Ammunition Surveillance (generically referred to as an “ammunition inspector”). Throughout his career with the Army, he moved to various assignments being stationed in Savanna, IL (3 times), McAlester, OK (2 times), Chambersburg, PA and Pirmasens, Germany. In 2000 Dan accepted a position in Washington, DC with FEMA (now called Homeland Security) where he Managed the Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program in conjunction with his Army counterparts. He retired in 2011 after more than 36 years of dedicated service to this country. Upon retirement, he and his wife became “snowbirds” and spent their winters in FL. 

Dan (affectionately called “Danny” by his family and many close friends) had many facets to his life. He was a loving husband, proud father of 3 accomplished children, and doting grandfather of 2 little boys. He had an easygoing warmth about him and always treated people with respect, resulting in him having a multitude of friends he enjoyed over the course of his lifetime. 

He always had a twinkle in his eye to go along with his sly sense of humor and gentle teasing. Those that knew him best will tell you his calling card was his boisterous laugh. It was matched by none and you could always tell when he was around. Being raised in PA, he never quite lost his accent. His use of the word “yinz” (short for “you all”) was baffling to many. He was considered the grill-meister of the family and an ardent Pittsburgh Steeler fan. His life in FL led him to taking up golf and sharing his good natured attitude with many new friends. 

Danny will be dearly missed by his family and many, many friends. He never made an enemy and led a full life. He was “one of the good guys” and his memories will always be cherished. He is now at peace in God’s hands. 

Daniel is survived by his wife Mary Jo (Bickford) Civis; daughters, Erin (and husband Vince) Moczulski and Erica (and husband Alex) Brady; son, Paul (and wife Sora) Civis; siblings: James "Randy", Sandy Wissinger, Donald and David; grandchildren: Nikoa and Leo; and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

As an alternative to flowers, a contribution to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in his name may be considered.