YOUNGSTOWN – Gene Alfred Campana, 83, passed away on April 28, 2016.
A loving father and husband who always put everyone else’s needs before his own, Gene will be missed by family, friends, and all who were privileged to know him.
Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Catherine Mary (Pepperney) Campana; sons, Thomas J. (Beth) of Akron, John M. (Juliann) of Tallahassee, Fla., and James J. of Youngstown; grandchildren Joelie and Jace; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Campana and Assunta Maria (D’Annunzo) Campana; brothers John and Julius; and sister Josephine.
Gene was born in Paterson, N.J. on Dec. 17, 1932, and raised in Youngstown.
He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and worked at General Extrusions before serving dutifully in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1955. Upon his honorable discharge, he attended Youngstown University and graduated in 1960 with a degree in Engineering and Math.
Gene enjoyed a successful career in Youngstown, working for 20 years as an industrial engineer and foreman at US Steel, then as an estimator for various companies in the Youngstown area from 1980-1992. He culminated his career working for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown both full and part-time until his retirement in 2011. In his retirement, Gene volunteered for countless activities associated with St. Christine Parish, where he and Cathy are devoted parishioners, such as participating in the bread and soup delivery program.
A cancer survivor, Gene was known for his devotion and loyalty to loved ones, wisdom, amazing kindness, selflessness and unending generosity. He also had a passion for crossword puzzles, reading, playing golf, and was a diehard Ohio sports fan, especially the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians and The Ohio State Buckeyes. A beloved friend and treasured relative, he will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Christine Church in Gene’s honor.
Calling hours will take place on Monday, May 2, 2016, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home in Youngstown.
A memorial Mass in celebration of his life will be held at St. Christine Church, 3165 South Schenley Ave., Youngstown, OH, 44511, at   10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 3, 2016, after a closing prayer service which will be held at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home.

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