Russell E. Cornman 1943-2024
BOARDMAN — Russell E. Cornman, 80, of Boardman, made his transition to his heavenly home on Wednesday morning, Jan. 3, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Russell will always be remembered for his pensiveness, quietness, generosity and humility along with being a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.
He was born July 14, 1943, in Armstrong County in Pennsylvania, the son of Harry P. and Hazel Anthony Cornman.
Russell was a 1961 graduate of Wilmington Area High School and then heard the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He earned the rank of E-4 and received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. Upon receiving an honorable discharge on Dec. 13, 1965, Russell returned home and began a lifelong career in the vacuum cleaner industry. He started as a Hoover vacuum sales representative and then was owner and operator of Cornman’s Sweeperland in Hermitage, Pennsylvania for over 47 years. In 2009, Russell’s son, Craig entered the family business which brought great enjoyment for them both. Craig took the company over in 2019, at which time Russell earned a well-deserved retirement.
Russell was a member of Christian Assembly and a past member of the Lions Club of New Bedford. Russell enjoyed golfing, photography and cooking on his charcoal grill where he became a “BBQ Grill Master.” He also enjoyed traveling and taking cruises.
Russell’s true passion was doing woodworking. He was very talented and loved to make and design different home decor items. He and his wife participated in many craft shows throughout the Mahoning Valley and his last creations were making his family corn-hole boards and shadow boxes.
He leaves behind to hold onto his precious memories his wife of over 55 years, the former Darlene Gentilcore whom he married May 18, 1968; a daughter, Michelle (Chris) Moriarty of Howland; a daughter-in-law, Carla Cornman; two grandsons, Mickey and Max, whom he adored; and two brothers, Floyd Cornman of Florida and Paul Cornman of New York; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Besides his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his beloved son, Russell Craig Cornman; sister, Fonda Toy; and three brothers, Elmer, Roy and Harry L. Cornman.
Family and friends may pay their respects from 11 a.m. until 12:50 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, at Christian Assembly, 5050 South Ave., Boardman, where a funeral service will take place at 1 p.m., with Pastor Jerry Hunt as celebrant. Following the services, Russell will have military honors provided by the great men of the Ellsworth VFW.
Burial will take place in Tod Homestead Cemetery, Youngstown.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.
Russell’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff of Hospice of the Valley for all the care and compassion shown to Russell and them throughout this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made in Russell’s name to Hospice of the Valley, 979 Tibbetts Wick Road A, Girard, OH 44420; St. Jude Children’s Hospital; 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or Pregnancy Help Center, 4845 Market St. #13, Youngstown, OH 44512.
Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Russell’s family.
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