Dana R. Coppins
December 28, 1949 - August 4, 2021
Albany-Dana R Coppins 72 of Albany NY was born December 28 1949 in Syracuse NY. At the age of four his mother moved his family to Staten Island NY. She married Salvatore Aliotta. When Dana was nine years old Sal taught him how to be a heavy machine operator. In 1970 he enlisted with the United States Marine Corp. From 1970 until 1974 he served in Vietnam. In 1978 he moved his young family to Bakersfield California along with his brothers family where they lived for two years. While in California he worked in the oil fields and for a cement factory as a machine operator and truck driver. In 1980 after moving back to Staten Island NY, he was highly sought after as a heavy machine operator by many construction companies. He also worked for NYC Sanitation as a machine operator in Staten Islands landfill. In the mid to late nineties he moved to Albany NY. He fell in love with the staff at the VA Hospital’s staff. For many years he volunteered for the Blind Veterans Association. He taught newly blind veterans how to find their ways around the hospital to get to their appointments. He received many awards and recognitions over the years for his work with the B.V.A. On August 4 2021 he passed away while being a patient at Albany Veterans hospital. He is survived by his brother Dale and two sisters Pam and Tina. His two sons Dana and Derek. His daughter Deanna plus nine grandchildren. He is loved and will be missed by all who knew him. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Dana’s family Wednesday, August 11, 2021 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY. Please only enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot doorway; unvaccinated individuals must wear a mask and practice social distancing. Funeral services Thursday, August 12, 2021 at 10:30 am at the McVeigh Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow at 12:30 pm at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery with full military honors. To leave a message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com
Albany-Dana R Coppins 72 of Albany NY was born December 28 1949 in Syracuse NY. At the age of four his mother moved his family to Staten Island NY. She married Salvatore Aliotta. When Dana was nine years old Sal taught him how to be a heavy... View Obituary & Service Information