Anthony Gary Martinelli

BOARDMAN — Anthony Gary Martinelli passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2026. Born in Salem on Aug. 19, 1963, to Anthony Dominic and Frances Martinelli.

Tony led a vibrant and active life. He was a creative, kind, and compassionate child, with a natural ability to make people feel at ease. As an adult, Tony channeled those traits into a career as an art educator. After studying art at Youngstown State University, Tony taught the students at Salem City Schools how to embrace their inner creativity for 33 years. He designed and built sets for Salem High School Drama Department’s annual plays and was an advisor to the A.F.S Club. Each year he helped to organize the Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition, a prestigious statewide competition that showcases the visual art of high school students around the state. Several of the students he mentored placed highly in the competition. Tony was also awarded Teacher of the Year in 2004.

Outside of teaching, Tony enjoyed an active life of hiking, weightlifting, traveling, art, and spending time with his family. He was a dynamic person with an honest curiosity and willingness to learn new things. Compassionate and reliable, Tony was always there for his family when they needed him and would do whatever he could to help. This innate compassion is best illustrated by the tenderness and devotion with which he cared for both of his parents towards the end of their lives.

He is survived by his siblings, Peter, Mary Beth, Susan, and Gayle; nephews, Matthew, Shawn, and Jack; nieces, Amber, Julie, Deanna, and Kelly, and many friends including Bob. Words cannot express how much he was loved, and how much he will be missed.

Tony is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Frances Dominic and his brother, James.

Calling hours will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church with Father Joseph Ruggieri officiating followed by the burial at Grandview Cemetery.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Tony’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

5/23/26