Robert L. Magni Sr. 1931-2025

Born Nov. 18, 1931, in Youngstown, Bob was the son of the late Louis and Sarah DeSalle Magni.

He was a 1950 graduate of East High School and went on to attend Youngstown College.

Bob proudly served his country as an electronics technician second class in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He served aboard the USS Glynn and famously crossed the Arctic Circle on July 8, 1954, entering the Northern Domain of the Polar Bear.

After his military service, Bob returned to Youngstown and embarked on a 48-year career at LTV, formerly Republic Steel, starting as a design draftsman and progressing through the engineering department in many roles, including electrical engineer, project engineer, senior project engineer and project manager – Mahoning Valley District before retiring in 1999. He was a lifetime member of the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST).

A longtime member of Holy Family Church, Bob was also actively involved in his community. He served as an instructor and advisor for Junior Achievement for many years. He was on the board and president of Republic Steel Federal Credit Union.

An avid gardener, Bob enjoyed taking care of his sprawling vegetable garden. Bob liked to be outdoors either working in the yard, building a fire or taking a much-needed break basking in the sun on his chaise lounge. Bob always kept himself busy — he either had a project or two going on or he was doing research for his next project. In his leisure time, he enjoyed attending YSU football games, playing golf and tennis, and enjoying leagues and friendly matches. Bob liked his model trains, from the set he had since he was 3 years old to the collection he amassed over the years. Every Christmas the living room floor would become a model train display for all to enjoy. He ensured that all of his grandchildren had train sets as well.

Every Christmas and Easter morning, Bob would become a short-order chef, making his famous big breakfast, a tradition continued by his children.

Above all, Bob was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother who cherished family time and family vacations.

Bob is survived by six children, Robert L. (Patricia) Magni Jr. and Judith M. (Gary) Allen, both of Poland, Gregory A. Magni of Big Pool, Maryland, Sara H. (Donald) Katcher of New Middletown, Joseph C. (Michele) Magni and David R. Magni, both of Poland; grandchildren, Katie (Ryan), Robert III (Jenny), Alayne, Amy (Greg), Alexander (Serena), Mallory, Carson, Karissa and Ben; and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves his brother, Richard Magni of Poland; a host of nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Carol Jean Magni, whom he married Dec. 29, 1956, and who died Feb. 17, 2019; and his brother, Samuel Magni.

A private Mass of Christian Burial was held at Holy Family Church on Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, with Msgr. William Connell officiating. Full military honors were provided by the U.S. Navy and Ellsworth VFW Post #9571 at Poland Riverside Cemetery.

In honor of Bob’s memory, the family kindly requests that tributes be made in the form of donations to Holy Family Church, 2729 Center Road, Poland, OH 44514; or the Youngstown VA Clinic, 1815 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH 44504.

The family would like to recognize and thank all of Bob’s caregivers for the love, care and support that was given to Bob and his family at this time.

Arrangements were handled by Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main Street in Poland. To share memories and condolences with Bob’s family, please visit www.beckerobits.com.

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