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POLAND - Donald D. Fanelli Sr., died Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026.
Donald was born April 7, 1935, in Pittsburgh, Pa., the son of the late Dominic Fanelli and Helen Fowler.
A proud husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and veteran, Don lived a life filled with hard work, craftsmanship, and, above all, love for his family.
Early in life, Don moved to Campbell, where he attended high school before answering the call to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving from 1954 to 1958 while stationed in Newfoundland.
Following his military service, Don returned home and settled in Struthers, with his beloved bride, the former Rita Emanuel, whom he loved dearly. Together, they built a life and family rooted in love and devotion. They were blessed with two children, Donald (Beth) Fanelli of Beverly Hills, Florida, and Vicki (Harry) Groner of Poland.
Don had a lifelong passion for classic cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and spending countless hours in his garage. Whether he was working on a car or crafting beautiful wooden masterpieces, he took great pride in working with his hands and creating things to be admired. His garage was more than a place to work; it was a reflection of his passions, his talents, and the pride he took in everything he did. He was also a proud member of the Mahoning County Sheriff's Reserve Motorcycle Program.
While Don had many interests, his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was his family. He never missed an opportunity to brag about his grandchildren, Tiffany Thorpe, Bethany Fanelli, Mariah (Vincent) Chirchiglia, and Cory (Samantha) Groner. His love extended to his four great-grandchildren, Alex, Kylie, Enzo and Giovanni, who brought him immeasurable happiness. His family was his greatest treasure, and the pride he had in each of them was evident to everyone who knew him. He will truly be missed by his two surviving sisters, Thelma and Geri, and many nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dominic and Helen; his siblings, Frank and Patty; and his daughter, Jacqueline Fanelli, who passed away shortly after birth.
Don will be remembered for his pride in his work, his passion for the things he loved, his dedication to his country, and, most importantly, the deep love he held for his family. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the craftsmanship he left behind, and the generations of family who will forever carry his love with them.
Though he will be deeply missed, the stories told, the lessons shared, and the love he gave will remain a lasting part of the family he was so proud of.
Consider making a donation in honor of Don to either the Youngstown Branch of the VA or Patriot Hospice Care.
Friends will be received from 12 to 12:45 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers, followed by a funeral service beginning at 1 p.m.
He will be laid to rest at Lake Park Cemetery, where military honors will be rendered for his service to our country.
Visit www.beckerfuneralhomes.com to send the family condolences and share your memories.
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