Michael J. Rinko

AUSTINTOWN – Michael J. Rinko, 89, passed away on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, following a brief illness.

Michael was born June 18, 1936, in Youngstown, a son of the late Michael and Olga Dukovich Rinko, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a graduate of Chaney High School and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. Michael worked for General Motors Lordstown for 30 years, both on the line and as a quality inspector, before he retired.

After his retirement, Michael went to work at Mill Creek Golf Course for seven years, a job he truly enjoyed.

Michael was a lifelong member of St. Brendan Church and was an avid sports fan. He frequently enjoyed playing a good round of golf, but most of all, he cherished the time spent with his family.

Michael is survived by his three daughters, Kathy (Rick) Arnoto of Canfield, Terri (Alan) McCracken of Gettysburg, Pa., and Patty (Gary) Gaca of Austintown; his seven grandchildren, Nicolette (Nick) Vitale, Victor Arnoto, Stephen McCracken, Alaina (Samuel) Kiewit, Lindsey McCracken, Carlee Gaca and Angela (Nate) Baker; two great-grandchildren, Oaklynn and Lincoln Baker; his brother, Joseph (Sharon) Rinko of Mineral Ridge and many extended family members.

His wife of 62 years, Nicolette Kolesar Rinko, whom he married Sept. 3, 1960, died Oct. 28, 2022.

Michael was also preceded in death by an infant daughter.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, at the funeral home and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at St. Brendan Church, 2800 Oakwood Ave., Youngstown.

Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, where Michael will be laid to rest beside his beloved Nicolette.