Obituary of Daniel A. Tagliente

Daniel A. Tagliente, 87, of Cortland, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026. Born April 11, 1939, in Cortland, he was the son of the late Daniel and Lena Farmaloro Tagliente and remained a proud lifelong member of the community he loved so deeply. Dan graduated from Cortland High School before serving his country in the U.S. Army in New Mexico. Following his service, he attended New Mexico State University and later earned a masters degree in history from SUNY Cortland, beginning a teaching career that would span 32 years. A beloved U.S. History and Journalism teacher at Marathon Central School, Dan was far more than an educator—he was a mentor, role model, and steady presence in the lives of generations of students. Affectionately known as "Tag," he formed lasting connections with those he taught, empowering them not only in the classroom, but on the athletic field and in life beyond school. He attended countless weddings, remained a trusted confidant to many, and took great pride in the successes of his students long after they graduated. His impact was immeasurable, and his legacy lives on in the many lives he shaped. Dan devoted his life to both education and community. During the school year, he was a dedicated high school teacher who left a lasting impression on his students. In the summers, he worked as a superintendent for Economy Paving in Cortland, where he built strong, enduring friendships over the years. Known for his generosity and quiet compassion, Dan was always willing to lend a hand. He often used his position to offer opportunities to those in need of a fresh start. Dan's commitment to public service reflected his deep love for his community. He served as a Cortland City Alderman, as Cortland County Democratic Chairperson, and as a Cortland County Legislator, always working to make his hometown a better place. He was widely known for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. Outside of his professional and civic life, Dan found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was an avid gardener who cherished time spent tending to his garden alongside his wife, Carolyn. He loved fishing, was an excellent cook, and was an avid baseball fan and lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted member of St. Anthony's Church. He treasured spending time with his family, loved traveling to visit them, and took great pride in each of them, following their lives closely and speaking of them often with unmistakable pride. Preceded in death by his sisters Pauline (Morton) and Mary (Pettit), Dan is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Carolyn Tagliente; his children Dana (Jeff) Hewitt, Jason (Donna) Sylstra, Justin (Ann) Sylstra, Damian Tagliente, and Carla (Jessica Vamvas) Tagliente; his grandchildren Michael Meyer, Austin Sylstra, Olivia Barnes, Garrett Sylstra, Evan Sylstra, Alexandra Sylstra, Ella Sylstra, Jack Sylstra, Lillian Tagliente, Lucy Tagliente, Daniel Tagliente, Luke Tagliente, and Kona Tagliente; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Westlynn and Garycen Barnes, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, former students, and dear friends. Calling hours will be held Monday, May 4th, from 9:30–10:45 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony's Church, Pomeroy Street, Cortland, NY. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Wright-Beard Funeral Home, and online condolences may be shared at www.wright-beard.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a scholarship fund established in honor of Daniel A. Tagliente, to support students pursuing studies in history, education, political science, or journalism. Checks can me mailed to Marathon Central School, c/o Daniel Tagliente Scholarship, 1 Park St. Marathon, NY 13803 and should be made out to Marathon School Expendable Trust with Daniel Tagliente Scholarship in the memo line.