John J. Chapella 1958-2026

He was born in Youngstown, Ohio, on May 29, 1958, a son of the late Andy and Ann Pavlick Chapella.

John graduated from Struthers High School in 1976 and attended YSU for two years. John worked at the Republic Steel Company at the Open-Hearth Department, the Falcon Foundry Company in Lowellville, and then retired from the State of Ohio in 2003 as a procurement agent at the Ohio State Federal Surplus Services Division.

Johnny’s guiding principles were faith, family and friends. His vibrant personality naturally filled any room, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. John had a remarkable ability to connect with people, often forming friendships instantly with those he encountered. These core values shaped his life and relationships, making him a beloved presence among all who knew him.

John loved his mother very much and was an excellent son who took great care of her, often driving over six hours on the weekends to ensure she was taken care of.

He loved sports, weightlifting and playing baseball in his youth. He was a die-hard Cleveland Browns, Guardians and Cavaliers fan. In his earlier years, he enjoyed going to the Indy 500 every year and attending Browns and Indians games, and he made it to the Rose Bowl and Super Bowl.

John enjoyed local politics and worked at the polls on election days; he also enjoyed traveling to California to visit his brother and family often. Johnny was an amazing, loving and loyal son, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and friend. He had a big heart, a huge laugh and his generosity and warmth touched everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

John is survived by his brothers, William (Silvia) Chapella and Andrew (Sandy) Chapella; sister-in-law, Karen Chapella; nieces, Laura and Pamela; nephew, Chip Jr.; great-nephew, Robby; great-niece, Amanda; great-great-nephew, Sammy; and great-great-niece, Victoria Grace.

Along with his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Cliff Chapella.

Friends will be received from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, at Kirila Funeral Home Inc., 258 Poland Ave., Struthers, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church, 1429 Mahoning Ave., Youngstown, OH 44509. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at the church, following visitation.

Interment will follow in the Tod Homestead Cemetery, Youngstown, OH 44505.

To view this obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.kirilafh.com.

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