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Daniel P. Casullo, 71, dentist

Daniel P. Casullo, 71, of Center City, a Philadelphia dentist and educator, died Saturday, Oct. 3, of pancreatic cancer at home.

Daniel P. Casullo, 71, of Center City, a Philadelphia dentist and educator, died Saturday, Oct. 3, of pancreatic cancer at home.

Despite a three-year battle with the disease, Dr. Casullo "lived life to the fullest and was an inspiration and friend to all who met him," his family said.

Born in Boston and reared in Medford, Mass., Dr. Casullo graduated from Medford High School in 1962. He excelled in academics and sports, including basketball and golf, and was an active golf caddy.

Dr. Casullo graduated from Villanova University in 1966, with a bachelor's degree in liberal arts. In 1970, he graduated from Tufts Dental School, after being named Outstanding Student for All Four Years by the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society. He also received an award for being the "most proficient in operative dentistry," or dental work with his hands.

He served in the Air Force, from 1970 to 1972, and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.

Afterward, Dr. Casullo established a thriving dental practice in Center City Philadelphia.

Early in his career, he obtained post-doctoral certification in both periodontics and crown and bridge work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, as well as a certificate in surgical and restorative implant dentistry from Northwestern University.

Dr. Casullo also was a respected associate professor in the Department of Orthodontics at Penn for more than 25 years. He directed the General Practice Fellowship Program in the Division of Advanced Dental Education for 11 years.

He contributed to many publications and co-authored a textbook that is used in dental schools worldwide.

Dr. Casullo was an avid golfer, playing until a week before he died, and a member of Bala Golf Club. He had served on the board of directors, and as club president since 2012.

He is survived by his wife, Kristine Christensen Casullo; daughters Christine C. Cockerill and Lisa C. Cestare; sons Daniel P. Jr., Robert N., and Joseph S.; two stepsons, Matthew Hyman and Eric Lightman; nine grandchildren; a sister; and a niece. Former wives Barbara Casullo and Margaret Hertrich also survive.

A memorial service is to be at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Bala Golf Club, 2200 Belmont Ave., Philadelphia. Burial is private.

bcook@phillynews.com

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