Gregory W. Orville 1957-2025

Greg was born on March 22, 1957, in Youngstown, to the late William and Kathryn Wilson Orville.

He was raised on West Boston Avenue alongside his siblings, growing up in a close-knit family. He was a proud graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, Class of 1975, and a longtime member of the Carpenter Local Union 171.

Greg was a master craftsman, whose hands could design, create and build just about anything. As a skilled carpenter, he took great pride in his work, always making things sturdy, heavy and built to last, just the way he believed they should be. His attention to detail was evident in every project he touched. Greg’s craftsmanship lives on throughout the Mahoning Valley, where countless homes, structures and projects stand as lasting reminders of his talent, work ethic and commitment to doing things right.

Greg met the love of his life, Madelyn M. Russo, believing their meeting was guided by mutual friends and God’s perfect timing. What began as a friendship, grew into a Christ-centered love, rooted in faith, trust and mutual devotion. On April 12, 1980, they committed their lives to one another and built a life grounded in Christian values, raising their two children, daughter Danielle M. Orville (Austin, Texas) and son Zachary W. Orville (Columbiana).

Greg was overjoyed as his family grew throughout the years, with the arrival of each grandchild: Oakley, Owin, Jayna and Jemma Orville, who brought him endless laughter, pride and delight. Whether cheering at their games, building projects together, or simply sharing stories, every moment with them was a treasured gift. His grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he delighted in their accomplishments, both big and small. “Papa Greg’s” love, encouragement and playful spirit created lasting memories for all who knew him, memories that will be cherished in their hearts for years to come.

Greg had a deep and abiding love for God and Greenford Christian Church, where his faith was nurtured and his spirit uplifted. He cherished the fellowship of the congregation by spending countless hours working and volunteering, always ready to lend a hand wherever it was needed. A man of deep faith, Greg lived his life guided by the teachings of Christ and often reflected on the Armor of God, embracing its call to truth, righteousness, faith, salvation and the Word of God.

He is survived by his loving wife, Madie Russo Orville; his children, Danielle Orville and Zack (Amy) Orville; his siblings, Christine (Bob) Bradley, Bradley Orville and Tracey (Tony) Klepec; his mother-in-law, Mary Jane Russo; and extended family, including Karen (Scott) Nelson and Marty (Katrina) Russo, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom he adored.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas V. Orville, and father-in-law, Martin Russo.

The family will receive visitors from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, at Greenford Christian Church, 11767 Lisbon Road, Greenford, OH 44422, followed by a celebration of life service, led by Pastor Bruce Rhodes Jr., beginning at 4 p.m.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Salem.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mercy Health Hospice of the Valley by Compassus and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. These causes were especially important to Greg, reflecting his lifelong compassion, generosity and care for others.

Greg’s life was marked by faith, love, and a generous spirit that touched all who knew him.

In remembering him, we are comforted by Psalms 25: “…when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”

Though he has left this world, Greg’s family and friends take comfort in knowing that the Lord carried him through his final days and now welcomes him into everlasting peace and joy.

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