Richard J. Faiello

age 80, of Canton, passed away Friday, August 9, 2024.  He was born Dec. 1, 1943 in Magnolia, a son of the late Rocco and Carmel (Logozzo) Faiello, and was a life resident of the Magnolia and Canton area.  Dick was a 1961 graduate of Sandy Valley High School. He was the first student at SV to receive a letter in all 4 major sports. He went on to study at West Liberty State College where he double-majored in Speech and Theater and Physical Education, receiving his BS in both. While at West Liberty, he played football and was involved in theatrical productions. Later, he continued graduate study at Kent State University and received his MEd. in School Counseling. Dick worked in education for most of his life. He was a passionate educator, basketball coach, guidance counselor, supervisor, and ultimately principal and director of R. G. Drage Career Center, where he worked until retiring in 2007 after 30 years of educational and administrative service. Dick was a member of St. James Catholic Church, Magnolia Lions Club, and the Sandy Valley Alumni Association.

Dick was a stellar athlete, enjoying and excelling at many sports throughout his life. As a coach, he was well loved and respected. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hiking and fishing with friends, gardening and landscaping, and playing and watching sports. In addition, Dick was a skilled woodworker and capable handyman. He loved being in his shop and always was working on a new "project" – including remodeling 9 houses in the Magnolia area! Many have been blessed with gifts of something beautiful that he created with his own hands. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five sisters and four brothers, Mary Xides, Virginia Rose, Rose Pentello, Betty Lancaster, Agnes Larson, Louis, Orlando, Art, and Mike Faiello.  Dick is survived by his daughter and son, Raquel "Rocci" (Michael Hill) Faiello-Teare, and John (Alaina) Faiello; two step-children, Justin Vonville and Gabrielle Vonville; five grandchildren, Corinne, Brennan, Braden, Rocco, and Giavanna; three sisters and two brothers, Nancy Neisel, Anne Boyd, Vickie Albright, Pat and Maris Faiello, Dave and Judy Faiello; and 60 nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Friday 5-7 p.m. at the Finefrock-Gordon Funeral Home in Magnolia.  A graveside service will be held Sat. at 10 a.m. in Magnolia Cemetery with Fr. Mike Seifert officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dick's memory may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 400 W. Lisbon St., Waynesburg, OH 44688.

Gordon (330) 866-9425