David E. Umbel 1956-2026

David was born on Oct. 26, 1956, in Youngstown, a son of the late Jack E. and Jane l. Hoop Umbel.

He graduated from Poland Seminary High School in 1975 and attended Youngstown State University. He was a lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley.

Dave worked for Local 8 Bricklayers in Youngstown for over 20 years.

He was known for his sharp wit, quick comebacks and a sarcasm that could fill a room with laughter. Humor was his language, and that same quick wit lives on in his daughter, Lauren – like father, like daughter.

He found joy in the simple things: a good book, a guitar in his hands and music turned up just loud enough to feel it. Music wasn’t just something he listened to; it was something he lived.

If there was sunlight to be found, he was in it — often bundled up outside with a book, soaking in the warmth. An excellent cook and natural chef, he loved summer days on the patio preparing meals for those he loved.

He treasured time in his garden, proudly carrying on the family tradition of planting garlic seeds brought from Italy — a love of gardening that lives on through his son, Benjamin, who continues the tradition. One of his greatest joys was working alongside his beloved wife, Diane, tending the garden, canning peppers, tomatoes and making pesto. He often said Diane was the love of his life and the glue of the family.

David found immense joy in being “Papa” to his three grandchildren — Auburn, Lawson and Monroe. His love for them was steady, proud and deep. They brought a special light into his life, and he often marveled at their beauty and talent.

He loved the freedom of the open road on his motorcycle and time spent at his favorite local spot, Rip’s, surrounded by friends and familiar laughter.

He carried a strong belief in God and was a member of Poland United Methodist Church. He leaned deeply into his faith, reading the Bible daily for comfort and peace.

Above all, he loved deeply — his family, his loyal dog Enzo, and the people who stood beside him through the years.

Dave is survived by his childhood sweetheart, Diane M. Lepore, whom he married on Oct. 9, 1982; his two children, Lauren M. (Sara M. Hoovler) Umbel of Mercer, Pa., and Benjamin D. (Amy) Umbel of Hickory, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Auburn, Lawson and Monroe Umbel; a sister, Nancy (Tracy) Smith of Fuquay Varina, Florida; a brother, Thomas (Suzie) Umbel of San Antonio, Texas; his sisters and brother-in-law, Linda and Scott Benson and Christine McKay, both of Poland; a brother-in-law, Christopher Lepore and his wife, Melinda of Portland, Oregon; many nieces and nephews; and many close friends who he cherished.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Rosie Perez for her unwavering loyalty and love.

A sincere thank you to the dedicated nurses at Hospice of the Valley, especially Amy Miletta, for their compassion and care.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, March 9, 2026, at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland.

There will be a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Paul Turner officiating.

Interment will take place at Poland Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that material tributes take the form of contributions in Dave’s name, to Friends of Fido, P.O. Box 2963, Youngstown, OH 44511 or Hospice of the Valley Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, OH 44514.

Visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and condolences with Dave’s family.

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