Joseph John Melago

Austintown, OH - After an acute illness on Monday, January 15, 2018, Joseph John Melago, age 85, passed away in St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with Eleanor (Koker) Melago, his beloved wife of 49 years at his side.  Joe was born in Youngstown on April 3, 1932 to the late William and Mary (Hripko) Melago.

Besides his wife Joe is survived by his sister-in-law, Carolyn (Bob) Stricko of Austintown, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, John, William, Steve Melago, Mary DePascale and Helen DeMarco.

Joe was a 1950 graduate of Chaney High School then was recruited and played for the Detroit Tigers Minor League Baseball Club.   He honorably served his country, in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954, during the Korean Conflict.  Afterward Joe married his love, Eleanor, on August 29, 1969 in St. Peter & Paul Roman Catholic where they are still members.  He spent most of his working life and retired from Areolite Extrusion Co.

From the time Joe was in high school, through his Minor League career and while deployment in Korea, he played baseball.  Later on and through his retirement Joe remained active, playing on the Holy Name Parish and Sam Camen's Golf Leagues.  Most of all Joe was a wonderful and loving husband, helping Eleanor with everything at home until his last days.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 4:00 PM at St. Peter & Paul Church, 421 Covington St., Youngstown, OH 44510.

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc.  Send condolences to Joe's family by visiting: www.cremateohio.com.