George Panno 1927-2021

He was born Aug. 30, 1927, to Felice and Rosa Panno. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father and papa.

He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Zoe Kramer Panno; five children, Rosemari (Mark) Panno, Mary “Dada” Panno, Phillip (Martha) Panno, George (Pauline) Panno and Zoeann Panno; nine grandchildren, Nicholas, Candace, Jeremy, Amanda, Ricky, George, Phil, Angelina and Jerrett; four great-grandchildren; his brother, Alex (Betty) Panno; and brother-in-law, Anthony Barone.

George graduated from East High School and was elected to the East High Hall of Fame for his golf accomplishments. He graduated from Miami of Ohio before his service in the Army. It was in the army where he learned his trade of firefighting.

George worked for the Youngstown Fire Department. He helped found the firefighters union and served as union president. In 1970, under the direction of Mayor Hunter, George was appointed and sworn in as fire chief. He loved his years of service.

He also enjoyed being a substitute teacher of math and science.

After retiring from the fire department, George became a nursing home administrator, where he worked until October 1989, when he retired full time.

George was a lifetime member of the Arco Club. He was an avid bocce player, teaching his children to play and love the game. George also enjoyed traveling. Often he vacationed and wintered in his Florida home.

George was preceded in death by his father, Felice, and mother, Rosa; his sister, Mary; and brother, Phil.

The family will receive family and friends 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15, 2021, at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman. There will be a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian burial celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica, 343 Via Mount Carmel Ave., Youngstown, by the Very Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Cariglio. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the church Saturday morning for Mass.

In respect to COVID-19 guidelines, guests are asked to wear masks at both the funeral home and church.

Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support via phone call, text, email or may visit the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com to view this tribute and send condolences to George’s family.

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