John A. Kopnisky 1964-2025
YOUNGSTOWN — It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John “Guido” Kopnisky, a beloved brother, uncle and son, who left this world, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025.
John was born May 20, 1964, a gift to his late father, Paul Kopnisky Jr., and his surviving mother, Saundra Kopnisky. He was known by some as “Johnny,” “John-John,” “Uncle Guido,” “Darling” and “Dude.”
He was a man of simple tastes who loved his mother’s cooking above all. A fan of country music, John loved watching car restoration shows and the sitcom, “Home Improvement.”
John also took great pleasure in watching NASCAR, OSU football and Pittsburgh Steelers games.
He loved nothing more than fishing with family and friends, and lending a hand at his friend Garrett’s automotive shop. John also loved spending time with his high school sweetheart and lifelong love, Sharon Jenkins.
John had a heart for helping others and a keen love for spending time with his family, especially during the holidays. He will always be remembered as a loving, caring and passionate individual who embodied strength, kindness and reliability. His greatest teachings were about the importance of putting family first, and owning up to one’s mistakes and the significance of learning from them.
Among his accomplishments, John gallantly fought and conquered Stage-4 mantle cell lymphoma.
His knack for rebuilding old cars and his courage to start anew at various stages in life were also notable. He bore the affectionate title of “Greatest Uncle Guido” to his nieces and nephews, and his legacy includes his undeniable love for his mother and the example he set in expressing that love, daily.
In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established to help with funeral expenses. Contributions can be made at everloved.com/life-of/john-kopnisky/.
John is survived by his large loving family, which includes his siblings, Michelle (Dave) Peters, Margaret (John) Gardner, Paul Kopnisky III, Karl (Angie) Kopnisky, Dennis (Sonya) Kopnisky, Marcella (John) Oleksa, Gerard (Nicole) Kopnisky and Melinda Kopnisky; along with several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father, Paul Kopnisky Jr.; and his grandparents, Margaret Ligore, Carl Ligore, Helen Kopnisky and Paul Kopnisky.
John’s life will be celebrated with visiting hours starting at 10:30 a.m. and a Catholic funeral Mass at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown.
John’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives but his memory will forever be etched in our hearts. We take comfort in knowing he is now at peace and reunited with his dear father and grandparents.
(special notice)