Dennis A. Zitello

Poland - Dennis A. Zitello, 76, passed away on September 19, 2024 at Hospice of the Valley's Hospice House. Born on January 20, 1948 in Youngstown, Dennis was the son of the late Anthony and Frances (Diego) Zitello.

A 1966 graduate of Hubbard High School, Dennis furthered his education at Youngstown State University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. In later years, he attended Kent State University, where he was near completion of his Master's Degree in Library Science. 

Dennis began his career working for General Motors before accepting a position with Giant Eagle in Liberty. He was employed with Giant Eagle for many years and advanced to the position of Category Manager. It was during his time with Giant Eagle that he met fellow co-worker and love of his life, Patricia Mikolay, and they were married on September 14, 1985. Dennis finished his career as a salesman for the wine distributor The Hammer Company which was acquired by Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits. Dennis' vast knowledge on wine was an added perk for family and friends who always looked to him for advice on the perfect pairing of wine with their meal. 

In his leisure time, Dennis frequently assisted his wife Patty with her volunteer work with Altrusa, Hospice of the Valley, Salvation Army, and Comfort and Hope. He also found joy in golfing with buddies and the camaraderie that accompanied the sport, listening to music, particularly jazz and soft rock, traveling with Patty, and was an advocate for Big Brothers and Sisters for several years. A passionate and voracious reader, Dennis enjoyed exploring books through all genres and kept himself informed about world events through various newspapers. 

Dennis made friends effortlessly and those who encountered him were greeted by kindness and compassion. He was a soft-spoken, spiritual man whose unique sense of humor and contagious laughter left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. 

Dennis leaves to carry on his memory, his wife Patty; sisters-in-law, Marianne (Frank) Eliser of Boardman and Diane (Bruce Robertson) Mikolay of North Carolina; brother-in-law, Jon (Barbara) Mikolay of Sagamore Hills; cousins, Bob (Sandy) DeJulio, Ron (Diane) DeJulio, all of Hubbard, Mary Diego, and Donna (Paul) Ahner, all of Oklahoma; and several special nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday from 11:00-11:45 a.m. at the Davis-Becker Funeral Home, 8536 Market St., Boardman, where a memorial service will follow at noon. 

Patty would like to express her gratitude and appreciation to the nurses on the 6th Floor at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital and the entire staff at Hospice of the Valley for the wonderful care they gave to Dennis. 

Memorial tributes may take the form of contributions in Dennis' name to Hospice of the Valley, 979 Tibbetts Wick Rd., Suite A, Girard, OH 44420, Second Harvest Food Bank, 2805 Salt Springs Rd.,Youngstown, OH 44509, or the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley, 1300 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,Youngstown, OH 44510.

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