Angelo J. Italiano 1938-2025
YOUNGSTOWN — The world feels a little less bright with the passing of Angelo Joseph Italiano, who left us peacefully, Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at the age of 87. A man remembered for his strength, warmth and devotion to family, Angelo touched the lives of all who knew him.
He was born Jan. 11, 1938, in Youngstown, to Augustine and Rose Italiano.
He was a graduate of Austintown Fitch High School (1955), The Ohio State University (B.S., education, 1961) and Pepperdine University (M.A., education, 1975). Angelo carried with him the values of hard work, integrity and compassion throughout his life.
Angelo shared 61 years of love and companionship with his beloved wife, Joan I. Stevens Italiano, with whom he built a beautiful family and a lasting legacy. Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with devotion, laughter and enduring commitment.
He is survived by his loving children, daughter, Joan E. Italiano Davidson (Ret. Col. Ross E. Davidson Jr.), and son, Christopher S. (Krysten) Italiano. He was the proud grandfather of Ross Angelo Davidson, Vincent A. Italiano, Sofia G. Italiano and Eliot E. Desmond. He also leaves sisters, Patricia Marie (Mike) Butch and Elaine Marie (Mick) Connolly; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, all of whom brought him endless joy.
Angelo will be remembered for his service to the United States of America as a soldier of more than 33 years. He proudly served his country on active duty in the United States Army for 30 years (1963-1993), achieving the rank of colonel, a distinction that reflected his leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and to the nation he loved. His service was in the United States Army Medical Service Corps, with duty stations in Germany, Texas, Hawaii, California, Washington State and Vietnam (1969-1970), and many others.
Returning to Youngstown in 1993, Angelo’s professional career also included 25 years with the Mahoning County, Ohio Health Department (1994-2019) as a registered health sanitarian, where he dedicated himself to improving public health and safety in his community.
Angelo was widely known for his tremendous enthusiasm for clock collecting, restoration and historical research. He also enjoyed poker games, flea marketing, garage sales and reselling items, pursuits that showcased his curiosity and passion for uncovering treasures and preserving history.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Augustine and Rose Italiano, and his beloved wife of 60 years, Joan I. Stevens Italiano.
A celebration of Angelo’s life will be Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at St. Columba Cathedral in Youngstown, with family and friends invited to share memories and honor his legacy.
Angelo and Joan will be laid to rest together in the National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
His life was a gift, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
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