John David Vallinger

John David Vallinger, 61, of Poland, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, surrounded by his family, following complications from a stroke. Born on March 27, 1964, in Youngstown to Raymond and Connie (DelSignore) Vallinger, John grew up with a big heart, an even bigger smile, and a knack for making friends wherever he went. A proud 1982 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, John shined on the football field-but the greatest thing he found during those years was the love of his life, Melanie. The two became inseparable, marrying in 1987, and spent nearly four decades building a life filled with laughter, adventure, and family. John had what many would call "the gift of gab," but those who knew him best would say it was really his gift of connection. He started his sales career in 1982 with Scandinavian Health Spas, eventually moving into district management roles at Circuit City and, most recently, Big Lots, where he spent the past 16 years. His easygoing nature made him not just a co-worker, but a friend to many. To his family and friends, John was the life of every room he entered. Whether it was coaching youth football, hosting gatherings, or simply telling stories, he radiated joy and had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged. He poured that same energy into sports, especially cheering on his sons in football, baseball, and wrestling. As a longtime trustee and head coach for the Poland Little Bulldogs, John proudly led the 130-lb team to a Super Bowl win in 2003-a memory he carried with him always. Even after his boys grew up, he never missed a Friday night under the lights cheering on the Poland Bulldogs. John also knew how to enjoy life to the fullest. He loved the thrill of a good scratch-off, the buzz of a casino, the peace of fishing, and the challenge of a daily workout. Some of his happiest memories came from traveling to Las Vegas and Mexico with Melanie, golfing in Myrtle Beach, and annual trips to Keeneland with the guys. Above all, John adored his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife and high school sweetheart, Melanie; his sons Tyler (Ericka) and Trent (Dee), all of Poland; his sister Rose Miller of Boardman; his brother Frank (Gloria) Vallinger of Poland; his sisters-in-law Marlene Stamp and Marsha Stas, both of Poland; his nieces Amy (Tom) Hackstedde of Poland, Mary (Kris) Brown of Austintown, and Tricia (Jack) Breegle of Austintown; his nephews Aaron (Sylvia) Stamp of Poland and Michael (Marla) Miller of Struthers He also leaves numerous great-nieces and great-nephews who affectionally thought of him as "Fun Uncle John": Kelsey, Logan, and Cameron Hackstedde; Aidan, Constantine, Arianna, Christian, Malena, and Markella Stamp; Mike Miller; Luca, Noah, Micah, and Jonah Brown; Olivia and Ella Breegle. John is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ray, and his in-laws, Elmer and Dorothy Haidle. The Vallinger family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gujrati, the critical care N.P.'s (Rhonda, Laurie, and Tracy), and all the nursing staff at St. Elizabeth Youngstown CVICU for the compassion and care they provided during this difficult time. Though his time here feels far too short, John's legacy of laughter, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in every story told, every game watched under Friday night lights, and every smile shared in his memory. Family will receive visitors at Cunningham -Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland, Ohio 44514 on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.