Lisa Dell’Alba, the president and CEO of Square One Markets, passed away on Sunday, February 16, at the age of 46.
A second-generation leader, Dell’Alba joined her family’s Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based convenience store business in 2004. Square One Markets, founded by her father, Gary Dell’Alba, operates 11 locations throughout Pennsylvania. After her father’s passing in 2009, she stepped into the role of president and CEO at just 29 years old, guiding the company’s growth and impact in the industry.
Dell’Alba was an influential figure in the convenience store sector, frequently lending her expertise to industry publications and discussions. In 2016, she was recognized on CStore Decisions’ “40 Under 40 Leaders to Watch” list. She also participated in CStore Decisions’ Conversations With Women in Convenience podcast, where she shared insights about leadership and her experience as a young female executive.
“The support and strength within this industry are truly invaluable,” Dell’Alba said in the podcast.
Beyond her leadership at Square One Markets, Dell’Alba played an active role in industry organizations. She served as vice chair of the NACS legislative committee from 2022 and previously held the position of vice chair of member services for NACS from 2020 to 2022. Additionally, she chaired the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) board, becoming the first woman to hold the position. PFMA honored her contributions with the Food Industry Trailblazer award in 2022.
“Lisa’s leadership and dedication set a new standard, helping move the industry forward in countless ways,” PFMA stated in a tribute.
Dell’Alba was born on June 30, 1978, in Easton, Pennsylvania, to Gary and Judith (Berg) Dell’Alba. A graduate of Bethlehem Catholic High School, she later earned her bachelor’s degree from DeSales University.
Her family remembered her as a dynamic individual who took joy in planning experiences and uplifting those around her. A skilled organizer, she loved coordinating family trips, particularly on Norwegian Cruise Lines. She also had a talent for recognizing the strengths in others and fostering teamwork.
Before entering the business world, Dell’Alba had a background in dance and martial arts. She held a second-degree black belt in mixed martial arts, a purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and enjoyed weightlifting.
Above all, her greatest source of joy was her son, Coltrane. Her family shared that she fought with unwavering determination to be present for him, demonstrating the deep love that defined her life.
Dell’Alba is survived by her husband, Steve; son, Coltrane; sister, Brenda Rosado; brother-in-law, John Rosado; niece, Kayla Rosado; and nephew, Gavin Rosado, along with many colleagues and friends.
Funeral Services
A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Connell Funeral Home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. A service celebrating her life will follow at 8:00 p.m., led by Pastor Jodie Harney. The burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lisa’s memory may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Contributions can be sent to P.O. Box 5028, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5028, or made online at MSK Giving. If donating online, contributors may use the funeral home’s address to notify the family. Condolences may be shared at www.connellfuneral.com.
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