Donald D. Vincenzo

DONALD DAVID VINCENZO June 16, 1923 – May 12, 2023 He nearly made his 100th birthday, having lived his entire life in Ashtabula, Ohio. Born to Joseph and Rose (Ray) Vincenzo, he was a U.S. Army WWII Veteran who served in Okinawa and survived an aerial attack by the Japanese while onboard ship and a typhoon on the island. Drafted at age 19 and all of 114 lbs., he said he was proud to have served. Don grew up with a piano in the house, took a few lessons and “fell in love with the instrument.” He played for a time with his cousin Ray Giangola in the Ray Jangles Band. Becoming a Master Piano Technician in 1947, he continued to tune and repair pianos until 2019. His last major project, at age 82, was a Steinway piano that had been badly damaged and abused. When played by a Cleveland Orchestra pianist, she applauded him for his restoration, calling it “a perfect instrument,” the likes of which she almost never finds outside her home venue. Don married twice and survived both wives, Gladys Bomar, whom he married in 1942 while in the service, and Irene Schimel in 1991. He never had children, but was a proud and loving uncle who was the family photographer/videographer for decades. A special “Thank You” to all the devoted caregivers who helped him continue to live in the home he built in 1957. He is survived by a brother, Joseph Vincenzo, Jr. and many nieces and nephews who will miss him terribly. He was preceded in death by a brother Anthony Robert “Bobby” in 1999, Nancy Matrisciano in 2012, and Irene Cifelli in 2019. Nearly everyone who knew him called him a dear, sweet man…not a bad tribute.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday May 17 at 8:00 P.M. in Guerriero Funeral Home  1550 West 19th St. in Ashtabula with Father Raymond Thomas of Our Lady of Peace Parish officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Army. Private burial will take place in St. Joseph Cemetery , Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 at the funeral home. Condolences can be made at guerrjierofuneralhome.com

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