Celestino Ialenti 1942-2025

Charles was born Aug. 3, 1942, in Montelongo, Campobasso, Italy, a son of the late Michael and Angelina Ialenti. He arrived in the United States in April 1954 through Ellis Island, following a two-week voyage at sea. He was always grateful for the opportunities he had in America and took great pride in sharing his Italian heritage with his family through cultures, customs and traditions.

In 1964, Chuck was drafted into the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and later trained as a medic in San Antonio, Texas. He valued his military service, which instilled in him the importance of honor, discipline and respect — traits that remained central throughout his life.

After his honorable discharge in 1966, Chuck married the former Bernice Halicki on May 7 of that year. Together, they shared nearly 49 years of marriage and raised three daughters. He was a devoted husband and served as a loving caregiver to Bernice for several years prior to her passing in 2015.

Chuck proudly worked at General Motors for 30 years, primarily at the car and van assembly plants. He retired as a supervisor in final processing and was affectionately known by his co-workers as “Cherokee.”

He was an avid gardener, winemaker, golfer, coffee drinker and Elvis Presley wannabe. Chuck had an incredible singing voice and shared his gift of song generously. He also coached girls’ softball at Arco Fields, where he was fondly referred to as “Mr. I.”

For the past four years, Chuck shared a home with his eldest daughter, Angela, and her husband, Mike. They graciously and selflessly provided constant care to ensure his safety and well-being. Ang and Mike did not view their caregiving responsibilities as a burden or sacrifice; they made the necessary accommodations for Chuck to maintain a quality of life with respect and dignity. Mike and Chuck shared a special bond — built on Western movies and the occasional shot of whiskey.

Chuck is survived by his three daughters and sons-in-law, Angela (Mike) Ruddy, Michele (Alan) Mikovich and Cecelia (William) Lugaila, and by his six grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Tata,” Cali (Lou) Altomare, Gabby Lugaila, JC Mikovich, Anthony Ruddy, Will Lugaila and Joseph Ruddy.

He also leaves his brother, Nick (Jill) Ialenti; niece, Jaclyn (Garrick) Backer; and brother-in-law, Salvatore Halicki.

Chuck’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Hospice House for its compassionate care in his final days and to his community hospice nurse, Kylie, for her months of devoted support and kindness.

Some of our fondest memories of Dad are gathered around a large table, sharing a wonderful, home-cooked meal and a glass of wine as a family. Chuck would sit at the head of the table, a proud smile on his face, tears often streaming down his cheeks — overwhelmed with emotion, love and gratitude. Despite his struggles to get words out and articulate what he wanted to say, we all knew that our family gatherings meant the world to him.

This was his family. His legacy.

What began as the journey of a young boy leaving his homeland in search of a better life became a remarkable story — one of courage, resilience and love. We are forever honored and blessed to have been raised by the very best.

Rest in peace, Dad. Your memory is eternal.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at St. Brendan Church, 2800 Oakwood Ave., Youngstown, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m.

Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, where Chuck will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife.

In lieu of flowers, Chuck’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to either Hospice House, the American Diabetes Association via www.diabetes.org or to the Epilepsy Foundation via www.epilepsy.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to share this obituary and to send condolences to Chuck’s family.

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