Dana Dokmanovich is the wife of legendary NFL player Franco Harris. She married the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Famer in 1972. Dana Dokmanovich lived a quiet life away from the spotlight throughout their marriage. She preferred to support her husband’s career while raising their family in private, exemplifying the role of an NFL wife with grace and dignity.
Dana Dokmanovich was born and raised in the United States to Serbian immigrant parents. She met Franco Harris during their college years at Penn State University. The couple built a strong marriage that lasted over four decades. Dana Dokmanovich stood by Franco’s side through all his achievements and challenges until his passing in 2022, demonstrating her quiet strength and resilience throughout their life together.
Dana Dokmanovich Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Dana Dokmanovich |
| Famous As | Wife of NFL Hall of Famer Franco Harris |
| Date of Birth | Between 1951-1954 (exact date unknown) |
| Age | Approximately 70-73 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Serbian-American |
| Heritage | Serbian descent |
| Father’s Name | Peter Dokmanovich (World War II veteran) |
| Mother’s Name | Bess Dokmanovich (homemaker) |
| Education | Penn State University (Graduate degree) |
| Former Occupation | Model, Flight Attendant |
| Modeling Brands | Calvin Klein, Victoria’s Secret, Tommy Hilfiger |
| Marriage Date | 1972 (private wedding) |
| Spouse | Franco Harris (deceased December 2022) |
| Children | 1 son – Franco “Dok” Harris Jr. |
| Son’s Birth Year | 1979 |
| Son’s Profession | Attorney, Politician, Entrepreneur |
| Son’s Education | Princeton University (Political Economy), University of Pittsburgh School of Law, Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business |
| Grandchildren | None (as of 2023) |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 63 kg (139 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 – $600,000 |
| Husband’s Net Worth | $30 Million (at time of death) |
| Combined Wealth | Approximately $10 Million (shared assets) |
| Residence | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Business Involvement | Super Bakery, Parks Sausage Company (supporting role) |
| Community Work | Charitable organizations, education initiatives, family support programs |
| Social Media | Not active/Very private |
| Public Profile | Extremely private, avoids media attention |
| Known For | Supporting Franco Harris’s NFL career, raising their son, community philanthropy |
| Where They Met | Penn State University (college sweethearts) |
| Marriage Duration | 50 years (1972-2022) |
| Current Status | Widow (as of December 2022) |
| Notable Characteristics | Grace, humility, strength, resilience, compassion |
| Cultural Values | Family unity, hard work, discipline, perseverance |
| Mother-in-law Role | Bess Dokmanovich also served as Franco Harris’s secretary |
| Parenting Philosophy | Normal upbringing away from spotlight, supported son’s choice not to pursue football |
| Legacy | Quiet strength, devoted wife and mother, community supporter |
Early Life and Background
Dana Dokmanovich was born in the early 1950s in the United States. She comes from a proud Serbian-American family background with strong cultural roots. Her parents, Peter Dokmanovich and Bess Dokmanovich, were hardworking people who valued family above everything. They raised Dana with traditional values that shaped her character and future life, giving her the foundation for what would become her remarkable Dana Dokmanovich biography.
Her father Peter Dokmanovich was a World War II veteran who served his country with honor. Her mother Bess Dokmanovich was a devoted homemaker who kept the family together. Growing up in a Serbian immigrant household, Dana Dokmanovich learned the importance of discipline and perseverance. These early lessons would help her navigate life as the wife of a famous NFL player, preparing her for the Dana Dokmanovich early life and background that would shape her future.
Dana Dokmanovich pursued higher education at Penn State University where she earned her degree. During her college years, she developed independence and confidence in herself. She also worked as a model for major brands like Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret, beginning her Dana Dokmanovich modeling career. Later, she became a flight attendant, showing her adventurous spirit and desire to explore the world through her Dana Dokmanovich flight attendant career.
Education and College Years
Dana Dokmanovich attended Penn State University for her higher education. She pursued her studies during the early 1970s at this prestigious institution. The university environment helped shape her into a well-rounded individual. Dana Dokmanovich focused on her academics while also enjoying college life with friends, building the foundation of her Dana Dokmanovich education at Penn State.
During her time at Penn State, Dana Dokmanovich met Franco Harris who was a star football player. Their paths crossed on campus and they quickly formed a connection, beginning the Dana Dokmanovich relationship with Franco Harris. The young couple shared similar values about family and hard work. Their college romance eventually turned into a lifelong partnership that lasted fifty years, answering the question of when did Dana Dokmanovich marry Franco Harris.
Dana Dokmanovich graduated from Penn State University with a degree that prepared her for various careers. Her education gave her the confidence to work as a model and flight attendant. She learned important life skills during her college years that helped her later. The experiences at Penn State shaped the strong, independent woman she became.
Career Before Marriage
Dana Dokmanovich started her career as a professional model in the early 1970s. She worked with several famous fashion brands during that time. Her modeling career included work with Calvin Klein and other major companies. Dana Dokmanovich’s natural beauty and grace made her successful in the competitive fashion industry, establishing her Dana Dokmanovich career before marriage.
After modeling, Dana Dokmanovich decided to pursue a career in aviation. She became a flight attendant for a major airline company. This job allowed her to travel across the country and meet new people. She enjoyed the excitement and independence that came with her aviation career, demonstrating her Dana Dokmanovich modeling and flight attendant career experience.
Dana also focused on her education during her early career years. She attended Penn State University where she earned her degree. It was during her college years that she met Franco Harris. Her education and work experience shaped her into a strong, independent woman before marriage.
Meeting with Franco Harris
Dana Dokmanovich first met Franco Harris during their college years at Penn State University. They were both young students pursuing their education in the early 1970s. The connection between them was instant and genuine from the very beginning. Their relationship started as a college romance that would last a lifetime.
Franco was already making a name for himself as a talented football player at Penn State. Dana was drawn to his humble personality and strong character beyond his athletic abilities. They spent time together on campus and developed a deep friendship before dating. Their bond grew stronger as they supported each other through their college journey.
The couple fell in love during a time when Franco’s football career was just taking off. Dana saw the man behind the athlete and loved him for who he truly was. They decided to build a future together despite the challenges of a professional sports career. Their college romance blossomed into a marriage proposal that Dana happily accepted in 1972.
Relationship And Marriage to Franco Harris
Dana Dokmanovich met Franco Harris during their college days at Penn State University. They were young students who quickly fell in love with each other. Their connection was strong from the very beginning of their relationship. The couple dated for several years before deciding to get married, establishing the foundation of Franco Harris and Dana Dokmanovich marriage.
Dana Dokmanovich and Franco tied the knot in 1972 in a private wedding ceremony, marking the beginning of the Dana Dokmanovich marriage. She became his wife just as his NFL career was taking off with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dana Dokmanovich supported Franco through every game, every season, and every challenge he faced. Their marriage remained strong for an incredible 50 years until Franco’s passing in 2022.
The couple built their life together based on love, trust, and mutual respect. Dana Dokmanovich chose to stay away from the spotlight while Franco became a football legend, exemplifying her Dana Dokmanovich private life philosophy. She focused on raising their son and managing their home life in Pittsburgh. Their enduring marriage showed the world what true partnership and commitment look like.
Who Is Franco Harris?
Franco Harris was a legendary NFL running back who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent 12 seasons with the Steelers from 1972 to 1983. Franco became famous for making the “Immaculate Reception” in 1972. This play is considered one of the greatest moments in NFL history.
Franco Harris won four Super Bowl championships with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. Franco rushed for over 12,000 yards during his incredible career. He passed away in December 2022 at the age of 72, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and his devoted wife Dana Dokmanovich.
Family Life and Parenthood
Dana Dokmanovich built a strong family foundation with Franco Harris. They married in 1972 after meeting at Penn State University. The couple shared a deep love that lasted fifty years together. Dana focused on creating a stable home while Franco pursued his NFL career, embracing her Dana Dokmanovich role as NFL wife.
Dana Dokmanovich and Franco welcomed their son Franco “Dok” Harris Jr. in 1979, adding to the Dana Dokmanovich family and son. She raised him with strong values and a sense of normalcy. Dana made sure her son grew up away from the celebrity spotlight. She supported his decision to become a lawyer instead of following football, showing her support as Franco “Dok” Harris mother.
Family always came first in Dana Dokmanovich’s life and priorities. She taught her son the importance of education and hard work. Dana created a loving environment filled with Serbian cultural traditions from her Serbian-American family background. She remained a devoted wife and mother throughout all the years.
Career, Hobbies, and Personal Interests
Dana Dokmanovich had a successful modeling career before her marriage. She worked with famous brands like Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret. Dana also worked as a flight attendant for several years. After marriage, she focused on supporting her husband’s business ventures and raising their son, contributing to the Franco Harris business ventures including Super Bakery.
Dana enjoys spending quality time with her family and close friends. She loves cooking traditional Serbian dishes from her heritage. Reading books and staying informed about current events are her favorite pastimes. Dana also enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her loved ones.
Dana Dokmanovich has always been passionate about education and community service. She supports various charitable organizations focused on children and families, demonstrating her Dana Dokmanovich charitable involvement. Dana values privacy and prefers a quiet life away from media attention. She finds joy in simple things like gardening and maintaining a peaceful home environment, reflecting her Dana Dokmanovich lifestyle.
Community Work and Charitable Involvement
Dana Dokmanovich has always believed in giving back to her community. She worked quietly alongside her husband on many charitable projects in Pittsburgh. Dana focused on helping families and children who needed support the most. She never sought recognition or media attention for her generous contributions, exemplifying her Dana Dokmanovich community work ethic.
Dana Dokmanovich supported educational programs that helped underprivileged youth succeed in school. She understood the importance of education from her own college experience. Many young people benefited from the scholarships and mentorship programs she helped fund. Dana believed every child deserved a chance to build a better future.
Dana Dokmanovich continued her charitable work even after Franco Harris passed away in 2022. She remained committed to the causes they both cared about deeply. Dana worked with local organizations that supported families facing difficult times, continuing her Dana Dokmanovich community service work. Her quiet strength and compassion made a real difference in many people’s lives.
Challenges and Resilience
Dana Dokmanovich faced many challenges as the wife of an NFL superstar. She raised their son mostly alone while Franco traveled for games and events. Dana had to manage the household and make important family decisions by herself. Despite these difficulties, she never complained and stayed strong for her family, demonstrating her Dana Dokmanovich quiet strength and resilience.
The couple dealt with constant media attention throughout Franco’s football career. Dana worked hard to keep their private life away from public scrutiny. She protected their son from the pressure of living in his father’s famous shadow. Her quiet strength helped the family stay grounded through all the attention.
Dana Dokmanovich showed incredible resilience after Franco Harris passed away in December 2022. She lost her husband of 50 years just days before a major celebration, beginning her Dana Dokmanovich life after Franco Harris death. The sudden loss shocked the entire sports world and their community. Dana handled her grief with grace and dignity while honoring Franco’s legacy.
Involvement in Business Ventures
Dana Dokmanovich played a supportive role in her husband’s business ventures throughout their marriage. She was actively involved in Super Bakery Franco Harris, a nutritious food company Franco Harris founded in 1990. Dana helped with business decisions and provided valuable insights from behind the scenes, showing her Dana Dokmanovich business involvement. Her practical approach and attention to detail contributed to the company’s success.
She also supported Franco’s work with Parks Sausage Company in the 1980s. Dana understood the importance of building strong business relationships in the community. She attended important meetings and company events alongside her husband when needed. Her presence helped Franco make important connections with business partners and investors.
Dana Dokmanovich preferred to work quietly without seeking public recognition for her contributions. She managed family finances and helped oversee their various investments over the years. Her business sense came from her education at Penn State University and life experience. Dana’s steady support allowed Franco to focus on growing their businesses while she handled operations.
Physical Appearance and Lifestyle
Dana Dokmanovich has a graceful and elegant presence. She stands at approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall with a slim build, reflecting her Dana Dokmanovich height and weight. Her blonde hair and brown eyes give her a classic beauty look. Even in her seventies, Dana maintains a dignified appearance.
During her younger years, Dana worked as a professional model. She modeled for Calvin Klein, Victoria’s Secret, and Tommy Hilfiger. Dana has always preferred simple and modest fashion choices. She avoided wearing expensive jewelry or designer clothes to events.
Dana Dokmanovich lives a very private and quiet life. She has spent most of her years in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Family has always been the center of Dana’s lifestyle. She dedicated herself to raising her son Franco Jr. with strong values while staying involved in charitable work and community programs.
Net Worth and Financial Insights
Dana Dokmanovich has an estimated net worth of around $500,000 to $600,000. She earned money through her modeling career with brands like Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret. She also worked as a flight attendant before focusing on her family. Her personal wealth reflects her years of hard work in different professions, representing her Dana Dokmanovich net worth and income sources.
Her late husband Franco Harris had a net worth of approximately $30 million at the time of his death. The couple shared assets and investments built over their 50-year marriage. They owned successful businesses including Super Bakery and Parks Sausage Company. Dana now manages these financial assets and estate after Franco’s passing in 2022.
Dana Dokmanovich has always lived a modest lifestyle despite access to significant wealth. She never flaunted money or sought luxury in the public eye. The couple focused on building businesses and supporting charitable causes quietly. Dana continues to maintain financial privacy and stays away from showing off her wealth.
Legacy and Impact
Dana Dokmanovich’s greatest legacy is the strong family she built with Franco Harris. She raised their son with love and taught him important values. Dana showed that success comes from staying true to yourself and your family. Her quiet strength inspired many people who knew her story, establishing the Dana Dokmanovich legacy and impact.
Dana Dokmanovich made a real difference through her charity work and community support. She helped others without seeking attention or recognition for herself. Her 50-year marriage showed the world what true commitment looks like. Dana proved that you can live a meaningful life away from the spotlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dana Dokmanovich?
Dana Dokmanovich is the wife of NFL Hall of Famer Franco Harris. She was married to the Pittsburgh Steelers legend for 50 years until his death in 2022.
How did Dana Dokmanovich meet Franco Harris?
Dana Dokmanovich met Franco Harris while they were both students at Penn State University. They were college sweethearts who fell in love during their time on campus.
When did Dana Dokmanovich and Franco Harris get married?
Dana Dokmanovich married Franco Harris in 1972 in a private wedding ceremony. Their marriage lasted 50 years until Franco’s passing in December 2022.
Does Dana Dokmanovich have any children?
Yes, Dana Dokmanovich has one son named Franco “Dok” Harris Jr., who was born in 1979. He is an attorney, politician, and entrepreneur.
What did Dana Dokmanovich do before marriage?
Dana Dokmanovich worked as a professional model for brands like Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret. She also worked as a flight attendant before focusing on her family.
Where is Dana Dokmanovich from?
Dana Dokmanovich is from the United States and has Serbian-American heritage. Her parents, Peter Dokmanovich and Bess Dokmanovich, were of Serbian descent.
What is Dana Dokmanovich’s net worth?
Dana Dokmanovich’s estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $600,000. She shared combined assets of approximately $10 million with her late husband Franco Harris.
Is Dana Dokmanovich active on social media?
No, Dana Dokmanovich maintains a very private life and is not active on social media. She has always preferred to stay away from public attention and media spotlight.
What does Dana Dokmanovich do now?
Dana Dokmanovich continues to live privately in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, following her husband’s death. She focuses on family, community work, and maintaining Franco Harris’s legacy.
How old is Dana Dokmanovich?
Dana Dokmanovich is approximately 70-73 years old as of 2025. Her exact Dana Dokmanovich date of birth has not been publicly disclosed due to her preference for privacy.
What is Dana Dokmanovich’s ethnicity?
Dana Dokmanovich ethnicity is Serbian-American. She was born to Serbian immigrant parents who instilled strong cultural values in her.
What was Dana Dokmanovich’s education?
Dana Dokmanovich education at Penn State was where she earned her degree and met Franco Harris during the early 1970s.
Conclusion
Dana Dokmanovich remains a remarkable example of grace, strength, and devotion in the world of sports families. Throughout her 50-year marriage to NFL legend Franco Harris, she chose dignity and privacy over fame and attention. Dana Dokmanovich successfully raised their son, supported her husband’s legendary career, and contributed to her community without seeking recognition. Her story proves that true success isn’t measured by public acclaim but by the love and values you share with your family. Even after Franco’s passing in 2022, Dana Dokmanovich’s legacy continues to inspire those who understand that the greatest victories in life happen away from the spotlight. She will always be remembered not just as the Franco Harris wife Dana Dokmanovich, but as a strong, independent woman who lived life on her own terms with grace and humility, exemplifying the best qualities of the Dana Dokmanovich wife of Franco Harris story.
Hammad is a celebrity blogger who writes engaging, well researched content about famous personalities, sharing biographies, life stories, and trending updates for readers worldwide.
