John A. Italiano 1933-2025

John was born Sept. 14, 1933, in Youngstown, the son of Pasquale and Clara Calo Italiano. He was proud to grow up on the East Side of Youngstown and attended East High School as a “Golden Bear.”

John was a proud United States Army veteran serving in the Korean War. He served in the 945th Quartermaster Service Company stationed in Korea. While he was overseas, John helped arrest two Korean soldiers as they were in the process of stealing two vehicles from the Army.

John was awarded the following decorations for his service to our country: the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the United Nations Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He received an honorable discharge on Jan. 4, 1954.

John was the owner and operator of Liberty Auto Wrecking, along with Liberty Auto Sales, for many years.

John was a member of St. Patrick Church, Youngstown, and AMVETS.

John had many passions throughout his life. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and drag racing. He also loved making homemade wine, and he valued the time he shared with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren at family barbecues.

His wife of over 62 years, the former Theresa Meyers, whom he married Nov. 6, 1954, passed away Aug. 12, 2017.

John leaves behind to hold onto his memories, his son, John “Jack” (Cindy) Italiano II of Youngstown; two granddaughters, Angelica (Dusty) Hammond and Nicole Italiano; four great-grandchildren, Mia and Avery Grau, Nicolina Italiano and Blaine Hammond; a sister, Rose (Captain Nick) Pacalo; his faithful and beloved pet dog, Smokey Joe; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Besides his parents and wife, John was preceded in death by two daughters, an infant, Theresa Italiano, and Jody Italiano; and three sisters, Florence Kloos, Frances Italiano and Sister Charlotte Italiano, OSU.

Per John’s request, there will be no calling hours or services at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi and Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

On behalf of John’s family, they would like to express their sincere appreciation to Renee and Lill for all the care and compassion shown to them and John throughout this difficult time.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to John’s family.

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