CANFIELD – Mario Silvestri, 81, passed away peacefully, Saturday evening, January 4, 2025, at University Hospital Ravenna surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Mario was born May 18, 1943, in Pacentro L'Aquilla, Italy, the son of the late Antonio and Bambina Demartinis Silvestri. As a young boy, he immigrated to the United States arriving on October 23, 1951, eventually settling in Youngstown to begin a new chapter of his life.

Mario was a proud graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1963. Following his graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he honorably served as a tank driver with the 3rd Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment of the 4th Armored Division in Germany. He was discharged with honor in 1970, carrying with him the deep respect of his peers and a lifelong pride in his service.

A skilled autobody repairman, Mario worked for many years at various establishments, including Stack House Oldsmobile, Quints Autobody, and Mill Creek Auto/U Save Auto, before retiring. After retirement, his dedication to hard work led him to a second career as a custodian for MCCTC.

Mario was a man of strong faith and was a devoted member of St. Michael Church in Canfield, where he served as an usher. He also enjoyed attending Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica in Youngstown.

Mario had a deep love for the outdoors, cherishing 44 years of camping adventures at Lake Erie. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and gardening, and he celebrated his Italian heritage by making homemade wine and cooking traditional meals. Above all, Mario's greatest joy was his family, and he treasured every moment spent supporting his grandchildren and sharing his love with those around him.

Mario is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Wascko Silvestri, whom he married February 4, 1967; his son, Matt (Marina) Silvestri of Canfield; his daughter-in-law, Michelle Silvestri of Canfield; three grandchildren, Mikayla Silvestri, Mikenzie (Hayes) Covert, and Michael Silvestri; his four sisters, Clara Foti of Austintown, Lisa Orlando of Youngstown, Marisa Ricottilli of Youngstown, and Ennia Moses of Columbus; and many extended family members and countless friends.

Mario was preceded in death by his son, Marc Silvestri and his brother, Fred Silvestri.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the funeral home and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica 343 Via Mount Carmel, Youngstown.

May Mario rest in eternal peace, surrounded by God's love, as his family cherishes the legacy of love and faith he leaves behind.