John DeMain

YOUNGSTOWN

JOHN R. "JACK" DEMAIN

1940-2026

MSG. John R. "Jack" DeMain Jr., 85, of Youngstown, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, following a short illness.

Jack was born on October 30, 1940, in Youngstown, to Flora and John R. DeMain Sr. A proud lifelong resident, he was a graduate of Youngstown South High School, Class of 1958. He attended Youngstown College for one year, studying drafting, before beginning a long and dedicated career with the City of Youngstown Engineering Department, where he worked for 37 years, retiring in 1996.

Jack's lifelong passion for trains began at a young age. While still in high school, he started working at Amer's Hobby Shop in Youngstown. What began as a part-time job became a 48-year commitment when he purchased the business from Howard Amer in 1990. Jack owned and operated the shop until its closing in 2015, sharing his love of model railroading with generations of hobbyists.

In 1963, Jack enlisted in the Ohio Army National Guard, serving honorably for 27 years. He retired in 1990 with the rank of Master Sergeant.

Jack was an active member and officer of many organizations that included: The Youngstown Model Railroad Association (Charter Member since 1957, past President and current Secretary since 1968 until his passing), South High Class of 1958 Reunion Committee (Chairman and Honorary Class President), Northern Ohio Chapter of the Oldsmobile Club of America (President, Vice-President and current Treasurer), Ohio Army National Guard 437 MP Bn. Reunion committee (Treasurer), Mahoning Valley Railroad Heritage Association and The Greater Youngstown Italian Fest Committee.

When Jack wasn't working on his extensive model railroad layout, he could often be found in his garage, happily "puttering" on one of his three beloved Oldsmobiles. Truly a "Jack of all trades," he was frequently repairing toys and projects for his grandchildren, who were the joy of his life. Jack was a devoted and enthusiastic supporter of all his grandchildren's activities and sporting events.

On October 7, 1967, Jack married Norma Jean Piccolo, and together they shared 53½ years of marriage until her passing in 2021.

Jack is survived by his three children: Dean (Gina) DeMain and Jill (Joseph) Cole, both of Boardman, and Todd (Jennifer) DeMain of Canfield; seven grandchildren, Stephanie (Maxwell) Brooke, Emily DeMain, Anthony DeMain, Michael Cole, Jasmine DeMain, Heather DeMain, and Chelsea DeMain; and two great-grandchildren, Genevieve and Bennett Brooke. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Dominic (Nina) Piccolo of Orlando, Florida, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his wife, Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Jean and David Williams; his brother and sister-in-law, William and Patricia DeMain; and his sister and brother-in-law, Anita and John Ifft.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by an 11:00 a.m. Mass at St. Christine's Church.

Jack will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Caprice Health Care Center and Hospice of the Mahoning Valley for their compassionate care.

Material contributions can be made in Jack's name to the Youngstown Model Railroad Association or the Northern Ohio Chapter of the Oldsmobile Club of America.

The family has entrusted Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home for the arrangements.