Samuel J. Traino Jr.

AUSTINTOWN — Samuel J. Traino Jr., 87, died peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, at his home.

He was born Jan. 4, 1938, in Youngstown, a son of Samuel J. Traino Sr. and the former Rose Lepore.

Samuel was a veteran of the Army, having served as a sergeant (T) E5. He was employed as a steelworker at US Steel-Ohio Works and also at Polaris Windows and Terrace Gardens.

Known as the neighborhood handyman, he was always ready with a helping hand, fixing what needed to be mended and lending support wherever possible. His unwavering friendship was cherished by all who knew him.

Sam’s passion for gardening was legendary; at one time, he cultivated over 6,000 plants, including a remarkable variety of peppers, tomatoes, zucchini and cabbage. Friends and neighbors would eagerly come to share in the fruits of his labor.

He is survived by his wife, the former Virginia Bistarkey, whom he married Feb. 17, 1961; sisters, Rosalie Nolfi of New Middletown and Rita Restaino of Girard; brother, Vincent (Pam) Traino of Canfield; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Samuel was preceded in death by his daughter, Virginia “Gina” Traino; son, Samuel J. Traino III; sisters, Mary Mester, Nina Sibeto, Lena Caimano, Antoinette Simon, Francis Reents, Joann Leardi and Connie Iaconis; and brothers, Ralph and Joseph Traino.

A funeral service will be celebrated 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave., where military honors will take place. Visitation will occur before the service, starting at noon. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Samuel’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the hospice nurses, Brenda, Ebony, Heidi and Anna.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Friends of Fido, PO BOX 2963,Youngstown, OH 44511.

Condolences may be sent to the family and donations may be made to Friends of Fido by visiting Samuel's obituary page at www.higgins-reardon.com.