Legendary USC football player Dom Fusci died Feb. 2 at the age of 89.
COLUMBIA (WACH) --You always knew when Dom Fusci walked in a room.
He was known for his cackling laugh, smile, and sense of humor.
Fusci was part of the “Greatest Generation” and a Gamecock great. He played for the USC football team in 1942 and 1943, left school to serve in World War II, and then came back to school in 1946.
His impact on USC athletics will always be remembered.
“Dynamite Dom” is in both the USC Hall of Fame and the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame. He was named to the USC Centennial Football Team.
Fusci was also instrumental in bringing his old friend from New York to the university, legendary basketball coach Frank McGuire.
While Fusci left his mark at USC, it’s the impact he made on those closest to him that shows his true character.
Friends describe Dom as loyal, kind, sweet, and the ultimate family man.
“I took him under my arms,” said former teammate Lou Sossamon at a reception honoring Fusci Wednesday. “I liked the fellow to begin with. Kind of like a brother to me.”
Sossamon first met Fusci in the early 1940’s, when the two played football together at USC. Their friendship off the field stayed strong for nearly 70 years.
Fusci died peacefully in his sleep on February 2. He was 89-years-old.
He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Marjorie, their three children, and several grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or Pawmetto Lifeline.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH