Obituary of Andrew N. Spagnuolo

Andrew Nick Spagnuolo, 97, passed away on April 23, surrounded by family. Although his later years were dulled by dementia, Andy left his family with indelible memories that will forever bring laughter and tears to their lives. Born August 1, 1920 in Rivisondoli, Italy, Andy ("Spag" to his friends) came to America when he was five years old. The family settled in Akron where Andy became an All-State wrestler for Garfield High School. Andy began what would be a 42 year career with the Firestone Tire & Rubber Co., interrupted only by the time he served in the US Army during World War II, landing on Utah Beach in June 1944. Andy married the love of his life, Ann Louise ("Lou") Caruso, in 1947. They had three children, built their dream home, and were married for 57 years, until Lou passed away in 2004. While the children received their appreciation for education from their mother, Andy instilled in them the importance of a strong work ethic. Andy never turned down an opportunity to work overtime and would often come home after a long day at Firestone to work on a project at home. An electrician by trade, Andy could repair and build almost anything. Andy loved to sing and was "entertaining" others just hours before he died. He loved the horse races, the lottery, and poker--although they generally didn't love him back. Andy enjoyed gardening and was especially competitive about his tomatoes. Andy is survived by his children Sandy (Ed) Meholick, Jerry (Mary) Spagnuolo of Pickerington, Ohio and Lynne (Mike) Callahan; his grandchildren Patty (Mark) Reynolds, Brian Meholick, Greg (Tammy) Meholick, Michael and Daniel Spagnuolo, Kelli (Jeff) Peiffer, Katie (Josh) Meiring, and Michael Callahan; eleven great-grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will begin Monday, April 30 at 9:30 a.m at the Anthony Funeral Homes, Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St. in Akron and continue with a Mass of the Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Church, 4009 Manchester Road in Akron. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 300 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Suite 103, Akron, OH 44333.