Lucio J. ‘Luciano’ Parillo 1945-2024

Anyone who really knew him can attest that he never had a bad word to say about anyone and that he possessed a perpetual positive attitude.

Lucio was born March 10, 1945, in Formicola, Italy, a son of the late Giuseppi Parillo and Giuseppina Matarazzo Parillo. He emigrated to the United States as a child and the Parillo family made their new home in Girard, where Lucio’s journey in America began.

Lucio’s passion for hair design blossomed early. After attending barber and cosmetology school, he became the first male hair designer in the Youngstown area during the early 1960s. His trailblazing spirit and unmatched talent quickly established him as a master coiffeur for countless businessmen and professionals. Lucio’s pursuit of excellence led him to study in major fashion capitals such as London and New York, where he mastered the latest trends and techniques, further cementing his reputation.

His entrepreneurial spirit thrived in Boardman, where he moved his business and owned several premier hair salons. Lucio’s salons were renowned not just for their exceptional service but for the creative and high standards he set. His dedication to his craft remained steadfast until illness prevented him from working a few months ago.

Lucio’s impact extended beyond his professional life. He was a mentor to many young people, guiding them to become successful entrepreneurs and professionals. His generosity with his time and knowledge helped shape the careers of many in the industry, creating a lasting legacy.

Lucio served in the United States Army, where he was an extremely proud member of the 101st Airborne Division. His sense of duty and patriotism were evident in his service.

Outside of his professional and military accomplishments, Lucio found joy in simple pleasures. Foremost, he cherished and enjoyed his family, was always game for a picnic and was an avid watcher of sci-fi and war movie, and appreciated the art of savoring a good piece of bread. Lucio always emphasized that “it’s all about the experience,” a philosophy that he lived by and imparted to those around him.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Marilyn Wagner Parillo; his daughter, Camille (Nathan) Tacsik of Boardman; his four sons, Ryan (Elizabeth) Parillo of Tampa, Florida, Derek (Kayla) Parillo of Columbus, Joseph Parillo (fiancee Abbey Dwinnells) of Midland, Michigan, and Alex (Lindsay) Parillo of Florida; two granddaughters, Aurelia and Lucia Tacsik; two brothers, Rocco “Rocky” (Rosemarie) Parillo and Vincenzo “Vince” Parillo; two sisters, Angelina Kovalchik and Caroline Martuccio; many nieces, nephews and extended family members; and many, many friends.

Lucio’s life was a testament to his hard work, creativity and love for his family, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Besides his parents, a sister, Serafina Creatura, preceded Lucio in death.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a memorial open house Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Camille and Nathan’s home, Lucio and Marilyn’s daughter, 4109 Lockwood Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44511. Please stop by between noon and 3 p.m. to sit a while, join in prayer or share a story or special memory of Lucio with his family. Light refreshments will be served.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view and share this obituary and to send condolences to Lucio’s family.

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