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Salvatore DiPietro Obituary
1935-2017
born Feb. 10, 1935. Died Monday, Feb. 27, 2017. Also known as Junior, Joe, or Papa Bear, he was a big man with an even bigger heart and zest for life. He was a member of Little Flower Catholic Church. Joe loved sports. He was a 1954 graduate of Central Catholic, where he earned all county honors for both basketball and golf. His football skills earned him all Ohio recognition and a scholarship to Indiana University. He was also a professional golfer and owned his own race horses. He was the founder of the Pizza Ovens & Papa Bears. He also owned and operated Skyland Pines Golf, Banquet, and Swim & Tennis. He was most proud of The Walter Hagen Memorial Golf Tourneys that ran from 1976 – 1982. It brought in 27 tour pros, raised awareness and dollars for the American Cancer Society.
Through the course of his career he sponsored countless youth programs, bowling leagues and spearheaded fundraising programs for churches, schools, associations and organizations. He has received recognition from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the Italian American Festival, and the Tri County Restaurant Association. He was also a 3rd & 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, Canton Chapter # 341. In 2016, he received the Aster Award from the Sons of Italy. He was proud to have been inducted in the McKinley High School Booster Club Hall of Fame, the J Babe Stearn Community Center Hall of Fame, and the Canton Fumble ball Hall of Fame.
Joe was very dedicated to the Canton Ex-Newsboys Association. He was an original member of the Unique Club of Stark County. Joe never forgot his Italian heritage, and enjoyed his childhood memories of growing up in the southwest end with his DeChellis, DePasquale and Ranalli cousins and many good friends. He never made a friend he didn't keep and he cherished them all. He was especially grateful to his right hand friends, Sam & Nancy Coletti for all their support and assistance in his various fundraising pursuits.
Joe is survived by Georgia, his wife of 60 years and their six children: Daughter, Stephanie (Leo Russo) Condric and Sons Ron (Tyra Zwick), John (John McDaniel), Steve (Sandy), Jerry (Ellie), and David (Chris) DiPietro. Also by beloved former daughters-in-law, Barb Hoover, Nancy DiPietro, and Susan Quilter. His 17 grandchildren were a great source of pride and joy: Georgiana (Dr. Sal Paolillo) Condric, Marija (Bill) McAfee, Lauren (Zack ) Smith, Tristan (Danielle) DiPietro, Kendre DiPietro, Hannah (Ryan Cole) DiPietro, Rachael (Eddie Walaszewski ) DiPietro, Austin DiPietro, Brayton (Audrey) DiPietro, Giavana (Garrett) Kloots, Salvatore (Kathleen) DiPietro III, Gina DiPietro, Alex (Rich) Nagy, Toni DiPietro, Juan Echavarria Rave, Dominicue DiPietro and Mackenzie DiPietro. There are eight great grandchildren, the youngest being born on his last birthday! Also survived by brother Frank DiPietro and sister in law Elsie DiPietro, brothers-in-law Mike McNamee, Rande (Judy) Rider, Monte (Gwen) Rider, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Salvatore and Maria DiPietro, and siblings: Adelaine (James) DiBartolo, Flora (Henry) Weaver Rose (Richard) Borgner, Noel (Bea) DiPietro , Joanne (Larry) Smith and Carl DiPietro. Sisters in Laws, Ethel DiPietro and Gonda McNamee and his Son in Law, Tomo Condric. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canton Ex-Newsboys.
Calling hours will be held in the Friendship Hall at Little Flower Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 1st from 2 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, March 2 at 10 a.m. Private Burial Services will be held in North Lawn Cemetery.
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Memories and Condolences
for Salvatore DiPietro
Jim & Barb Beyman
March 10, 2017
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. May God comfort the family during this difficult time. You will be in our thoughts and prayers
Mike and Carol Shaheen
March 6, 2017
Dear Stephanie,
Extending deepest sympathies on the loss of your wonderful father - he touched so many lives personally and professionally - he made our community a better place. I just talked to him at the Ex-Newsies Dance - so warm and kind. What a blessing to have a great dad - may your memories wrap you and your family in comfort and, in time, bring you peace. God be with all of you.
Mike and Carol
Kevin Lehnis
March 6, 2017
I am sadden to hear of Juniors passing.I'm sorry I couldn't be there to offer my condolences as I am in Florida. I can't say enough about what Georgias and Juniors generosity and kindness meant to the Lehnis family.They will always hold a special place in my heart. God bless the family and you will always be in my prayers.
Greg & Barb Duckworth
March 6, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peggy Fletcher
March 3, 2017
Stephanie and the entire Dipietro family. My heart was greaty saddened to hear about Joe's passing. So many great memories when I was young and friends with Stephanie since the second grade.i know you will be greatly missed by family and so many friends. My thoughts and prayers go to the family and his many friends.
LINDA & FRANK MONDAY
March 2, 2017
DIPIETRO FAMILY... OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOUR FAMILY...MAY YOUR FATHERS MEMIORIES STAY ALIVE IN ALL YOUR HEARTS.......
LINDA & FRANK MONDAY
LAS VEGAS, NV
Jim and Lorraine Kamp
March 2, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to the DiPietro family. Rest in peace Papa Bear.
Nick Costello and Family
March 2, 2017
Many good memories of golfing and working with Joe at Skyland Pines. Very sorry for you loss.
With Sympathy,
Kelley Young
March 2, 2017
Dear Dipietro Family,
My deepest sympathies go to you and your family during this time of loss. Let all the memories fill your hearts with joy & laughter.
I was at calling hours but because of a previous engagement, I could not stay and wait in the massive line that had formed. That in itself shows the love, kindness and admiration so many people have for you all.
With sympathy,
Tony Rainieri
March 2, 2017
So sorry for your loss , Junior and his family are in our prayers. Will miss seeing him at church.(no matter where we went)
Tony and Debbie Rainieri
Deanna Barbato
March 2, 2017
It was so sad to hear that Joe had passed away. We know that he is resting peacefully. I am in Florida and am so sorry I could not be there to pay my respect.
Laurel
March 2, 2017
Dear Stephanie,
Remembering good times at your house on 32nd during our high school days, so much activity with all of your brothers, your mom so kind and your dad such a huge presence. What a fun time with a great family. Haven't we been lucky and our lives blessed. It's obvious that your father meant so much to so many and I am thinking of you and all of the DiPietro family during this time of loss.
March 1, 2017
So sorry to read of your loss. We know you have many memories of a wonderful man who did so much for so many. We extend our sincere sympathies to the DiPietro family.
Tom and Patty Grisez
March 1, 2017
My thoughts and prayers for the DiPietro family. May God be with you in this time of sorrow, and always.
Taylor Smith
March 1, 2017
On behalf of the Forchione Family we would like to extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers during this difficult time. Your father/husband was always so kind to all of us.
God Bless and may all of you take comfort in knowing we are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Anthony Russo
March 1, 2017
Dear Stephanie,
Esther and I just heard the sad News about your Dad. Now that he has Passed into our next life with Jesus; we know as you also must know that your Dad is in one of the "Many Chambers" of Bliss that Our Good Lord promised that He would have prepared.
Please accept Our Deepest Sympathy.
Betty Leasure
March 1, 2017
Our hearts and prayers go out to the DiPietro family. We will always remember the banquets at Skyland Pines for Mckinley football. The Leasure family
Johnny and Dorie Carlin
March 1, 2017
DiPietro Family,
We are so sad to hear that Mr. DiPietro has passed.
My parents had the privilege of having the DiPietro children at Mason School. Mr. and Mrs. DiPietro
became friends with my parents. Mr. DiPietro was a kind and gentle person. His contributions to the Canton community will be his legacy. We love the DiPietro family and extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. We are blessed to have all of you as special people in our lives.
Pete & Lorie Bitzel
March 1, 2017
Georgia,
So sorry for your loss. The last time we were in Ohio, fortunately we had seen you and Joe at the Italian festival. He came up and gave us both a hug and told us that he loved us, and in return we told him that we loved him. He is going to be greatly missed. Please know that we are thinking of you at this very difficult time, and are sending prayers.
Sincerely,
AL AND NANCY DEPASQUALE
March 1, 2017
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF JUNIORS PASSING.HE WAS FRIENDLY AND CARING.SYMPATHY TO ALL THE FAMILY. HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL.
GOD BLESS
AL AND NANCY DEPASQUALE
George Shaheen
March 1, 2017
Our deepest sympathies to the family. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
May God Bless.
George, Kevin, Donna Shaheen
Maria Shaheen Nagel, Paul, Nick, and John Nagel.
Nancy Adams
March 1, 2017
Deepest sympathy to Stephanie and all the family. Many fond memories of all the dinner meetings at
Skyland Pines for the Stark County Medical Society membership.
Connie Calhoun
March 1, 2017
May God give you comfort at this time of your lost.
God Bless each one of you.
Freddie and Becky Bors
March 1, 2017
Sending Peace, light and love the DiPietro family and to all those he touched. May he rest in Peace~*
March 1, 2017
Prayers and our heartfelt sympathy to your family.
Ben and Gina Eccles
Bing Family
March 1, 2017
Dear Steve and all the Dipietro family, we are sad to hear of Papa Bear's pasing.
He was a great man who loved his community and will be greatly missed. Thanks for always supporting St.Thomas Aquinas High school.
March 1, 2017
Dear Mrs. DiPietro & Family,
You have our sympathy and love during this time. I will miss Papa Bear story telling and hugs. Although he will be greatly missed, he is now at peace with God and his angels. He is a wonderful man with a generous and kind family.
May God Bless you all,
Love Marlene & Michelle Diano
Theresa Radalia-Wern
March 1, 2017
Heartfelt sympathy to all the family. Anytime I would see Mr. DePietro he always returned my smile and greeting. Especially kind person. He will be missed. xo
Ben Stoffer
March 1, 2017
To the Dipietro family,
The Unique Club of Stark County extends our deepest sympathy in the loss of our friend and supporter Junior Dipietro. Also on a personal note, I have greatly appreciated the loyalty and friendship Junior shared with my late grandmother Alice Long as well as the tremendous support during our 2-year undefeated Championship run at THE St. Thomas Aquinas. May God Bless
Our thoughts and prayers always,
Ben Stoffer and The Unique Club of Stark County
debra martin
March 1, 2017
my deepest condolences to all the family may he rest in peace..
March 1, 2017
To The DiPietro Family,
Our Unique Club of Stark County extends our deepest sympathy to the entire DiPietro Family in the loss of our friend and supporter Junior DiPietro. Junior has given so much to so many in our Stark County community and it will always be greatly appreciated. On a personal note, I have always appreciated the loyalty and friendship Junior shared with my late grandmother, Alice Long, as well as his dedicated support in our two-year undefeated Championship run at THE St. Thomas Aquinas. May God Bless.
Our Thoughts and Prayers always,
Ben Stoffer and The Unique Club Of Stark County
Jim & Sue Addessi
March 1, 2017
Georgia,extending our deepest sympathy to you and your family,may your memories be your comfort.
Theresa (Fano) Horning
March 1, 2017
Pappa Bear was in one word a NICE man..God bless you and the entire DiPietro family..
Todd Bosley
March 1, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Dieptro's passing and I extend my condolences to his entire family. As a student at St. Thomas Aquinas in the mid 1980's, I learned more from the kindness and generosity of this man than I could have ever learned at any high school. Mr. Dipietro made sure every player on the football team was well fed before each game, bought uniforms and equipment and donated money for things we needed. There wasn'tmuch money in the programs during those years and without the help of Mr. Dipietro therewould not have been much of a football team. I asked my coach when I was a junior in high school why Mr. Dipietro did all of this for us? My coach told me it was just the kind of man he was and he did it because he could!!! I swear from that day on, I wanted to be Mr. Dipietro and give back to the community just as I had watched him do time after time and day after day. Community's lose good people all the time, but few communities ever lose this great of a man because a great man like this is very hard to find in the world we live in these days! Mr. Dipietro helped people his entire life and never asked to be recognized for it - Not one time! I had an opportunity many years ago to see Mr. Dipietro in the club house at Skyland Pines. I walked up to his table, shook his hand and took some time to thank him for all the things he had done for me as a student. It was the only conversation we ever had but it was a conversation I needed to have with him. He was very gracious and told me to go work hard, save my money and do nice things for others if you want to have a happy life. I appreciate that I had the opportunity to meet him and I want his family to know that every student appreciated what Mr. Dipietro did for all of us. He was an amazing person with a great big heart who taught by example and that's the kind of person we all should be!!
Todd D. Bosley
Former Stark County Commissioner
Current Nimishillen Township Trustee
Darla Marran- Sells
February 28, 2017
Georgia; I am so glad that I called a few weeks ago. I got to hear both your voices. Joe was especially talkative. When I heard that Joe was gone it took my breath away. He has had so many health issues but, like the energize bunny you just expected him to keep going. You and Joe did so much for my family. Joe and my late husband Don Marran, grew up together. When you were a friend of Joe's, you were a friend forever. I am sure that Joe, Don, and Dick Marran already have a tee time. I know for sure Joe and Don have a deck of cards. So many wonderful memories come flooding back. Watching all of our children growing up. The trips to the Pizza Ovens fo4 the best Pizza in town. The fun working at Skyland. Georgia, Steph, John, Ron, Steve, Jerry, David you dad physical body is gone but he will never leave you. You will feel his presence because LOVE NEVER DIES.
OUR PRAYERS, SYMPATHY AND LOVE TO YOU
Mike and Joni Ungashick
February 28, 2017
To all the DiPietro family our deepest sympathy. May he Rest In Peace with our Heavenly Father. God bless all of you.
February 28, 2017
Georgia & Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Junior's passing. I remember the last time my dad and he were together, there was always a memory and a laugh the would share. I know his loss causes an ache in all your hearts, but know he will be missed by many. His kindness an generosity to the children of Stark County will never be forgotten, but his greatest gift is the children and grandchildren he leaves behind. They will carry on his legacy and keep his memory alive.
My deepest Sympathies
Hope Forchione
William Paoletto
February 28, 2017
Mrs. Georgia Dipietro and all the Dipietro family,
Shirlene and Billy Paoletto would like to give our prayers to everyone and share our sorrows in the passing of a great and kind man(Mr. Dipietro). I know that God has him on the golf team in Heaven.
Dominic Mercurio
February 28, 2017
My condolences to you Mrs. Dipietro and your family
February 28, 2017
Georgia and Family, you have our condolences, Nick and Julie Martin!
Victor Marran
February 28, 2017
Georgia and Family- I want to offer my deepest sympathy to your family. Junior was one of a kind. I will always cherish the wonderful memories of the family get togethers', holidays, and especially Skyland. Junior and my father, Dick, were life long friends and shared a very special friendship not many can claim. You and Junior were there, at my dads bedside when he passed away. I will never forget that...I am happy that Junior is at peace, and that he and my father will be golfing together again....Love, Victor Marran and Family.
Rebecca Halter
February 28, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to all of the family. You all are in our prayers. God Bless. Joe and Becky Halter and family
February 28, 2017
Georgia and family,
I want to express my prayers and a couple of my knowing you and your family. I want to Thank Bear and his family for all his work in Stark County. I will always remember going to Skyland Pines for banquets for all McKinley students. Georgia remember all the good times you had with Joe.
Tammy Kissenberger
Michelle (Miller) Weickert
February 28, 2017
DiPietro Family,
I am very sorry to hear this news. My family and I were very fond of Joe and all of you through our connection at Skyland Pines and St. Thomas Aquinas. Our family enjoyed many years as members of Skyland Pines, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to be a lifeguard there for many years. He has been a very generous supporter of STA. We cherish the memories we have of him and your family. Every time I am in town we are sure to eat at Papa Bears. Whenever we ran into Joe there, he was always sure to give us hugs. Please know that we are lifting you all in prayer.
Connie Horvath
February 28, 2017
Georgia,I didn't know you and Joe well,but I enjoyed the times we sat together at mass at Little Flower. Always so nice to me.
Sincere sympathy for your loss. Connie
David Brendan Moriarty
February 28, 2017
Steve, Jerry, and Family,
On behalf of the Moriarty family of Saint John's and Saint Thomas Aquinas, please accept our heartfelt sympathy.
Rhonda Vechey
February 28, 2017
Marija & family,
My thoughts an prayers to you and your family at this difficult time.
Bing Family
February 28, 2017
Steve and family - we are sadened to hear of of your Fathers passing.Papa Bear was a kind person always willing to help the community and especially St.Thomas Aquinas High School. We wish your family all the best in this difficult time.
February 28, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss! Joe was a "great" guy, and I am so thankful I got to know him better over the last couple of years. Your entire family will be in my prayers. LOVE to ALL of you! BOB LONG
ron blend
February 28, 2017
jr
may he rest in peace from one from the old neighbor.old friend..gone but not forgotten!!!!!!!!!!
Rebecca Nicola
February 28, 2017
Georgia and Family,
May God Give you comfort and peace during this time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Rebecca Nicola and Family
Maria Tersigni Montini
February 28, 2017
From all the Tersigni Family we wish our sincere prayers and condolences. Our love, prayers and peace to the DiPietro Family.
Dan Hlavaty
February 28, 2017
Steph,
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. He was a great man who gave to his family, friends and community like few others. I hope that, over time, your grief dissipates and is replaced with an occasional smile at the fond memories you'll always have.
Dan Hlavaty
Bill Stathakaros
February 28, 2017
Jr. Is the last of the Mohecans. I played many rounds of golf with him and we were looking forward to playing at Glenmoor together this summer. He helped the community, many people, and my family many times and never seeked any type of attention or recognition. A true giant with an even bigger heart. I will truly miss all the fun that we had all those years playing golf at Skyland Pines with Sny, Ron, and Dave. Georgia and family you have my deepest sympathy on your loss. Like I said at the beginning, there will never be another Joe , never. God has a tee time reserved for Jr in heaven. Rest in peace Jr.
Melanie Rodriguez
February 28, 2017
Thinking of each and every life Uncle Joe touched and all those who loved him...
February 28, 2017
Mrs.Dipietro and Family
I was so sorry to read Mr. DIpietro passed away.
Our sincere condolences to you and all the family.
Larry and Kay Kuhn
Ft.Myers,Florida
Koula
February 28, 2017
So sorry to hear about the passing of JR.He was a gentle and kind man my prayers are with your family
Tiffany (Kessler) Grimsley
February 28, 2017
To the family: I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I have so many wonderful memories (of Joe and your family) from spending my childhood summers at Skyland Pines. May your memories give you comfort during this difficult time. You will continue to be in my prayers.
February 28, 2017
A WONDERFUL MAN AND GREAT FAMILY I MET ON MANY OCCASIONS. THE CERRETA BOYS, JEFF, JERRY AND JOEL HAVE FOND MEMORIES.
MOM, JUNE CERRETA
February 28, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Frank and Andrea DePasquale
February 28, 2017
My deepest sorrow to hear of Joe's passing.
One of the people I looked to emulate in my life. A warm and caring person always looking to help people. I have many fond memories and will never forget him.
My prayers go out to the DiPietro family.
Rest in Peace Joe.
Francesca Indorf
February 28, 2017
It was an honor and privilege to be one of his nurses at the Aultman Infusion Center. He will be greatly missed! My deepest sympathy to Georgia and his entire family.
Vince and Mary Jane Lupe
February 28, 2017
Our sincere sympathy to the Dipietro family. Junior will be missed as he was a large influence in the Canton area.
Monique Vacha
February 28, 2017
So sorry to hear the news. Some of my best memories were from working for your family.He truly will be missed.
February 28, 2017
Stephanie,
We are sorry to hear of the passing of your father.
Our prayers go out to you and your family.
Doyle & Dana Miller
GINA BUONOCORE
February 28, 2017
TO THE DIPIETRO FAMILY:
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS SAD TIME.
GOD BLESS,
GINA BUONOCORE AND FAMILY
Smoke Monnot
February 28, 2017
joe DiPietro will be missed in Stark County Community. He was a very Special Husband, FATHER, AND FRIEND TO many people. He was a huge influence in my life for over 30 years, and next to God and my Father can'nt think of a bigger influence in my lifetime. I will truly miss him, and think of him often. Nobody had a handshake like JUNIOR.
RIP Big Man,
Love ya,
Smoke Monnot & family
Rosie Hall
February 28, 2017
Stephanie, So sorry to hear of the passing of your father. Such a kind and generous man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Rosie and Charlie Hall
Mel Stickle
February 28, 2017
Sorry to Dipietro Family. You family has been friends to my family for many years. You father was a great man and great dad. Sorry for you loss my condolences. Mel Stickle.
Marian Knipfer
February 28, 2017
To the entire DiPietro family---
For over 50 years this family has been very special to me...not only in business, but personally. We all "grew" up together and Joe and Georgia are very special friends. I'll miss Joe and his big bear personna, but what a gentleman. To his children, cherish the good memories.
Ron and Maggie Hill
February 28, 2017
Dave and your family
We extend our deepest regret for the loss of your dad. Our prayers are with you
Jane Burt
February 28, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man who always was open to helping a child. You are in my prayers.
Jane Burt
Nick Cignetti
February 28, 2017
Deepest sympathy to the DiPietro Family Nick and Juanita Cignetti
Michael Zeigler
February 28, 2017
Bear
You have helped so many including myself. You always helped me when I needed it.
Lots if families owe you a great debt of gratitude.
I know right now your sitting with your arms crossed with that big smile across your face
Thank you for you! You will never be forgotten
Michael Zeigler and Family
Theresa Losey
February 28, 2017
So sorry to hear of Joe's passing, he was a great person. My life is richer for having known him.
Tricia Bowser-Nikishin
February 27, 2017
It is with a saddened heart that my thoughts are with the Family at this time.
Richard Drevpn
February 28, 2017
I remember St. Josephs football 1949 when we played together and won the city title thanks to Junior.
February 27, 2017
Georgia and family,
Joe will be missed by soo many. I will miss his big hugs and big smile. Our prayers are with you all.
Debbie Grosschmidt and the Chase Easton office staff
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