Harry Machuga

Harry Machuga, 97, passed away with his family at his side, Wednesday evening, February 12, 2025, in the comfort of his home. His remarkable life spanned nearly a century, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.

Born on October 7, 1927, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Harry was the beloved son of Stephen and Catherine Zoblesein Machuga. He was raised in Campbell, where he graduated from East High School, Class of 1944. At the young age of 14, Harry began to hone his skills as a meat cutter while working at Junedales Market in downtown Youngstown. His career in the grocery industry flourished over the years, culminating in his retirement from Rulli Brothers in 1999.

A proud veteran, Harry enlisted in the United States Army and served during World War II, earning the Victory Medal for his service. His commitment to his country continued as he later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Korean Conflict.

Harry was a charter member of St. Luke Catholic Church. He actively engaged in various capacities, including usher, reader, and distributor of communion to the sick. His leadership was further recognized through his presidency of the St. Luke St. Vincent DePaul Society and the Holy Name Society, both of which honored him with a 65-plus years’ service plaque. His dedication extended to the St. Luke Festival, where he participated in running the sausage booth, and he also organized the church’s golf league and outings. A devoted member, Harry attended mass and church meetings until recently.

The American Legion Post 15 in Poland also felt Harry’s impact, as he previously held the position of past Commander. Beyond his commitment to service, Harry had a passion for sports, particularly golf and bowling. He was known for centering himself around his family, never missing the opportunity to attend his grandchildren's sporting events and extracurricular activities, such as plays and music recitals. As the Patriarch of the annual Machuga Golf Open outing, Harry cherished the tradition of being the first to hit the opening tee shot.

His wife of 67 years, the former Rosemarie Buccieri whom he married June 25, 1955, at Immaculate Conception Church, passed away November 9, 2022. Harry is survived by his two daughters, Sharon (Rick Miller) Machuga of Poland and Loraine (Michael) Mangine of Lowellville; three sons, Deacon Mark (Julie) Machuga of Cincinnati, Brian (Pam) Machuga of Cuyahoga Falls, and Darren (Patti) Machuga of Canfield. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Jonathan (Kristin) Machuga, Jennifer (Matt) Reinkemeyer, Michael (Gina) Mangine Jr., Maria Mangine, Brianna (Trevor) Frank, David (Imani) Machuga, Joseph (Alessandra) Machuga, and Vince Machuga, and he took great joy in the presence of his seven great-grandchildren: Isabelle, Isaac, Ria, Aidan and Gianna Reinkemeyer, Gio Mangine, and Claire Machuga. He is also survived by his brother, Stephen (Janice) Machuga of Youngstown and his sister, Maryann (Ron) Porter of Destin, Florida.

In addition to his parents and wife, Harry was preceded in death by his sister, Bertha deVarennes, and his brother, George Machuga.

Friends will be received Monday, February 17, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland. A prayer service will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 9:15 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. St. Luke Catholic Church with Fr. Gerald Delucia officiating. Private interment will follow later that day at Calvary Cemetery.

Harry Machuga's life was a testament of service to his faith, family, and community, and he will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him.