Joseph J. Marion 1943-2026

Joe was born Nov. 18, 1943, in Youngstown, the son of Patsy A. and Mary A. Rossi Marion.

He grew up on Youngstown’s East Side, at the corner of Albert and Valley streets, and attended Immaculate Conception Elementary School. A proud 1962 graduate of Ursuline High School, Joe later fulfilled his lifelong commitment to education by earning his teaching certificate from Kent State University.

A dedicated and hardworking man throughout his life, Joe began his career at U.S. Steel McDonald Works before becoming a skilled carpenter. He later co-owned the Shadows Lounge on Youngstown’s North Side with his childhood friend for nearly 20 years. During that time, Joe built countless lasting friendships and was known for hosting memorable gatherings that brought people together.

Joe also shared his knowledge and craftsmanship as a carpentry instructor at Cleveland West Technical School and Maplewood Vocational School in Ravenna. While teaching, he established a senior class project in which students built a house that was sold at auction to help fund the following year’s project. Always eager to help others learn valuable skills, Joe later taught masonry at CCA Prison until his retirement in 2011.

In addition to teaching, he worked as a contractor, completing numerous remodeling projects and occasionally building spec homes.

A devoted member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica, Joe served as an usher, belonged to the Vestibule Club, and volunteered faithfully at the parish’s annual festival and spaghetti dinners. He was also a member of the Bagnolese Men’s Club of Youngstown and the ARCO Club, where he enjoyed playing bocce.

Joe embraced his Italian heritage with great pride. He loved making homemade wine, golfing, and listening to the Italian hour on the radio. As his physical abilities became more limited, he found joy in making pizzelles, hand-rolling meatballs, and preparing his signature homemade Italian dressing for family and friends.

Joe never met a stranger. His warm smile, generous spirit and genuine kindness made everyone feel welcome. He treasured friendships that spanned more than 75 years, a testament to the loyalty and character that defined his life.

Above all, Joe’s greatest joy was caring for his family. Whether at home or at the family condo in Myrtle Beach, some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by those he loved most.

On April 5, 1975, Joe married the love of his life, the former Geraldine A. “Geri” Lovati, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Together they shared over 41 wonderful years of marriage until Geri’s passing April 8, 2016.

Joe leaves to cherish his memory his two sons, Joseph P. Marion of Boardman and James P. (Erin) Marion of Dublin; his beloved grandchildren, Anna and Jimmy, whom he adored; his brother, Vince (Patty) Marion of Boardman; his sister-in-law, Della Plesac; one niece; five nephews; and many cousins and dear friends.

In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Joe was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Emil Lovati and Richard Plesac.

Family and friends may pay their respects 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 17, 2026, at Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

A prayer service will be at 9:20 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica, 343 Via Mount Carmel, Youngstown, with the Very Rev. Msgr. John Zuraw, J.C.L., V.G., serving as celebrant.

Entombment will follow in Green Haven Memorial Gardens in Canfield.

Family and friends are invited to visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view Joe’s obituary, sign the guestbook or offer condolences to his family.

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