William I. Cene Sr. 1941-2025

William was born Aug. 10, 1941, in Youngstown, a son of the late William and Prisella Chumita Cene. He was a 1960 graduate of Chaney High School and retired from General Motors Lordstown after 35 years. A lifelong resident of Austintown, he lived a full and passionate life centered on family, travel and the outdoors.

An avid fisherman and hunter, Bill found deep joy in nature. He also had a lifelong love for baseball and was a devoted fan of the New York Yankees. Known for his warmth, sense of humor and unwavering support of those he loved, Bill left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joann Stein-Cene, whom he married June 29, 2003; his sons, William (Carrie) Cene and Daniel (Rebecca) Cene; his daughters, Roseanne (Jeff) Messerly and Cheri (Dan) Michael; his stepson, John Stein; and stepdaughter, Christina (Bill) Church. Bill was a proud grandfather to Nicole (Corey) Vallas, Gabrielle Kendall, Nathan, Daniella, Joseph, Joshua and Bella Cene, Josh and Johnathan Stein, and Brittany and Ashley Williams. He also leaves behind many cherished great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Marilyn Maga Cene; and his brother, Robert Cene.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2025, at St. Joseph Church, 4545 New Road, Austintown, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m.

A committal service will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation in Bill’s memory.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Windsor House at St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center, Aventura at Humility House and Patriot Hospice for their dedicated care.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.

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