Raymond R. Melewski

CANFIELD – Raymond R. “Ray” Melewski, 91, passed away Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, at Briarfield Place in Boardman, following a long and fulfilling life. 

Ray was born Jan. 15, 1935, in Youngstown, a son of the late Seigmend and Mary Kos Melewski, and was a lifelong area resident. He was a 1953 graduate of South High School and continued his education at Youngstown State University, where he earned an associate degree. Ray was proud to be a YSU alumnus and maintained a lifelong connection to his alma mater. 

Ray dedicated 43 years of his life to a career with the Erie Lackawanna Railroad and Conrail, retiring in 1995. He took great pride in his work as a conductor and brakeman and valued the friendships and camaraderie he shared with his fellow railroaders throughout the years. 

Ray was a longtime member of St. Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Christine Church, and enjoyed a full and active life surrounded by family and friends. He especially looked forward to trips to Mountaineer with his brother, Ted, and sister, Gerry. Ray also enjoyed fishing and spending time at Pymatuning Lake, with his dear friend, Mary Baxter, and cherished the companionship of his beloved poodles, Bo, Jake and Pandora. 

Proud of his Polish heritage, Ray had a special fondness for the pierogies from the former St. Stan’s Church. He also enjoyed gathering for lunch with fellow railroad retirees and his South High School classmates, sharing stories, reminiscing about old times and maintaining friendships that spanned decades. 

He was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather who took particular pleasure in attending his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s sporting events and other school activities, always taking pride in their accomplishments and supporting them in their endeavors. Above all, Ray treasured the time he spent with his family, who were the center of his life and his greatest source of pride and happiness. 

Ray leaves to forever cherish his memory his son, Ray (Fran) Melewski of Canfield; two daughters, Mary Anne LoBosco of Schaumburg, Illinois, and Sandy (Robert) Rodino of Austintown; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and his lifelong friend, Wendell Jones. 

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara “Bobbie” Alexander; his brother, Ted Melewski; his sister, Gerry McCracken; and his son-in-law, Chris LoBosco. 

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, at St. Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown. 

Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.