Jack Walp

Jack D. Walp, 79, of Youngstown, passed away early Thursday morning, January 8, 2026 at the Hospice House of Poland. Jack was born on June 25, 1946, in Youngstown, a son of the late Jack S. and Elizabeth N. (Nicholson) Walp, and was a lifelong area resident. He graduated from Rayen High School in 1964 and went on to proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War as an intelligence specialist where he earned a National Defense Service Medal. Jack earned his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Youngstown State University. He later became a professor at YSU, where he taught self-defense and martial arts. In addition, Jack worked as a fitness and martial arts instructor at various community centers throughout the area. A lifelong student of physical fitness, Jack spent countless hours watching instructional videos and reading books on fitness and weightlifting. Martial arts was not just a career for him-it was his passion and his way of life. Jack leaves behind his beloved wife, Deena, whom he married on February 15, 2016; a daughter, Elizabeth (Richard) Mulhall, DVM, of Pittman, NJ; two step-sons, Daniel (Jennifer) East of Wytheville, VA, and David (Elise) East of Thomasville, NC; and 11 grandchildren. He is also survived by two sister-in-laws MaryDee (Don) and Robin (Woodrow), a niece, Sue (Brett) Buzard, and a nephew, Curtis (Kathleen) Bodamer. In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Wilkinson, and a niece, Jodi Shaw. There ill be a Celebration of Jack's life at Gentry's Catering, 116 E.. Liberty St., Hubbard, OH 44425 on Sunday, January 18th from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family asks for you to please make a monetary donation to an animal charity of your choice.