Don DeLuca, Bishop Ireton Physics Teacher, Dies at 80

Don DeLuca, a beloved physics instructor at Bishop Ireton High School, has passed away, the school announced Thursday. DeLuca was 80.

For much of his career, DeLuca consulted high-tech firms as a representative to various U.S. government departments regarding energy production and conservation and environmental protection programs.

Before joining Bishop Ireton as a full-time teacher in 2005, DeLuca worked for as a substitute teacher at T.C. Williams High School.

According to a statement from Bishop Ireton, DeLuca is remembered as a “consummate Salesian gentleman with a genuine passion for his students, he never failed to bring a smile to one’s face when he was around. He wanted to be known as, ‘the old man in the hat,’ as he always had a cap on his head. Mr. DeLuca was also known for his humor and love of life, which he shared with his students in his stories and advice.”

DeLuca is survived by a son, David (Meaghan), daughter, Lauren (Clint Brogdon), and grandchildren, Matthew and Nathan.

A reception honoring DeLuca’s life will be held at Bishop Ireton High School (201 Cambridge Rd.) from 5 p.m. to 8 pm. Friday, Nov. 8. A funeral Mass will be offered at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 at 2 pm at St. Louis Catholic Church (2907 Popkins Ln.).   

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Don DeLuca Scholarship Fund at Bishop Ireton High School.