Quick Summary
- Daniel C. Minocchi passed away after battling cancer.
- The University at Buffalo Athletics posted a tribute to honor him following his passing.
- He married his wife, Devon, on September 5, 2010, and they were blessed with two children.
Daniel C. Minocchi, a former Buffalo Bulls football player, certified Chiropractic Sports Physician, and coach, passed away on February 3, 2025, at the age of 42.
He fought a brave and lengthy battle with cancer before his passing.
Despite the challenges of his illness, including the amputation of part of his leg in November 2023 due to cancer surgery, Daniel continued his chiropractic practice and coaching duties.
He worked as a chiropractor for the University at Buffalo’s Athletic Program until his passing and also coached at Clarence Baseball.
Following his death, both the Clarence community and his friends and family are mourning the loss of a beloved individual.
In the wake of his passing, UB Athletics posted a tribute:
The outpouring of support from the community was evident, with one user commenting:
Great guy! Man. Smh. Sending prayers to the family!
Via Instagram
Another wrote:
Loved Dan. Terrible loss. Praying for him and his family.
Via Instagram
A third comment read:
😢 This hurts sending love to his family and anyone who got to know him
Via Instagram
Born in 1982 in Clarence, New York, Daniel developed a love for sports early in life.
He was a standout athlete at Canton Central Catholic High School, graduating in 2000.
His dedication to sports continued when he joined the University at Buffalo, where he played for the Bulls football team, earning four letters during his college career.
Daniel’s talent was not limited to football. He was also a skilled shot putter, setting a county and division record of 61 feet, 9¾ inches, breaking a long-standing record held by Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Dierdorf.
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and nutrition in 2004, he decided not to pursue a professional football career.
Instead, he pursued a doctorate in chiropractic medicine from what is now Northeast College of Health Sciences in Seneca Falls.
He became a member of the Phi Chi Omega honor society, marking the beginning of his impactful career in sports medicine.
He continued to serve as the team chiropractor for the UB Athletic Program, where he treated various musculoskeletal conditions, supporting athletes throughout their careers.
Minocchi also managed his chiropractic practice in Williamsville, New York, and coached Little League baseball in his hometown.

Daniel’s life was marked by his dedication to sports, medicine, and his family. His legacy lives on not only in the athletes he helped but also in the memories he created with those who knew him personally.
His impact as both a football player and a chiropractor will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of crossing paths with him.
Daniel is survived by his wife, Devon, and their two children, Gabriella and Christopher, who will carry forward his legacy of passion, dedication, and love.
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Daniel C. Minocchi: A Loving Husband to Devon, and Father to Two Kids
Daniel C. Minocchi married his wife, Devon, on September 5, 2010. Together, they had two school-aged children.
Daniel met Devon W. Russell, a player on the UB women’s soccer team, on a blind date set up by her twin sister.
At the time, both were studying at the University at Buffalo. Their connection was instant, and they began dating shortly after their first meeting.
While at university, Devon majored in communications and marketing and also played varsity soccer.
The couple then married and built a loving family. They welcomed their daughter, Gabriella, and later their son, Christopher.
Throughout their journey together, they shared a deeply loving and supportive relationship, always uplifting each other as they began their professional careers.
After graduation, Devon worked as a healthcare representative for Pfizer before becoming a senior health science advisor at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies.
Despite their demanding careers, the couple always made time for their children and enjoyed quality family moments.
The Minocchi family, a happy and close-knit family of four, cherished their time together until Daniel’s passing.
Here’s Something You Didn’t Know
- Daniel C. Minocchi was the beloved son of Kathleen (a retired nurse) and Frank Minocchi (a retired insurance representative).
- He grew up with his brother, Joseph Minocchi.