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Stanley Roy Curatola, 68, of Bessemer PA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Hospice of the Valley. Known to many as "Stan the Man," he was born October 3, 1955, in New Castle PA, the beloved son of James Vincent Curatola and Madonna (Quear) Curatola of Petersburg, OH.
Stan graduated from Springfield Local Schools and proudly served in the Marine Corps. After his service, he spent 20 years in California before returning home to Pennsylvania in 1998, where he resided until his passing.
Stan was preceded in death by his parents, James and Madonna Curatola, his sister Dorothy May Anderson, and his brothers, Carmen Junior Curatola, and John Lewis Curatola.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Rhonda M (Childs) Curatola of Bessemer PA, cherished daughter, Anna Rose Curatola (Jake Brothers) of Salem OH, and his beloved granddaughter, Kinsley Marie Brothers. He is also survived by his brothers, Harry James (Norma) Curatola of PA, Ralph Edward (Delores) Curatola of La Mirada CA, James Vincent Curatola of Las Vegas NV; sisters, Caroline Ann Sainato of Bessemer PA, Charlotte Jean Sznajkart of New Springfield OH, Mary Lucille Eckman of New Middletown OH, and Rose Marie Zimmerman of Austintown OH. Stan will be dearly missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of family and friends.
Stan was a man who gave selflessly, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He had a strong presence, often described as a "Manly Man," yet his heart was full of kindness. Whether you were down on your luck or just in need of a laugh, Stan was there. His love for people shone through in everything he did - making those around him feel valued and cared for. He had a knack for telling it like it was, and if you ever asked his opinion, you'd better be ready for the truth, a trait that earned him the affectionate nickname "True Story Stan."
A true sports fan, Stan loved the Steelers but was a diehard Miami Dolphins fan. He also enjoyed the Indy 500, NASCAR, golf and the Triple Crown races. His hobbies included fishing for walleye on Lake Erie, a spot where he wanted some of his ashes to be scattered, and playing bocce in the Wednesday night league at the Bessemer Croatian Clube, where he will always be remembered. Part of his ashes will be scattered on the bocce court in his honor.
Stan's dedication to his community was unmatched. He was a proud member of the Bessemer Croation Club and the Johnson Club of Hillsville PA, where he was a legend for his famous corn at summer picnics and his incredible Thanksgiving feasts for those with nowhere to go. He cooked with love, often volunteering to roast pigs, can vegetables, and prepare meals for his clubs and the people he cared about. His culinary skills and generosity will be remembered by all who enjoyed his meals. He also dealt poker at the clubs, helping to raise funds for children's Christmas parties.
Stan leaves behind a legend of warmth, love, and unforgettable memories. He loved spending time with family, playing cards, and gambling, always enjoying life to the fullest. His impact on the lives of those around him was profound, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. As his family reflects on his life, they know that Heaven gained an angel.
Rest in peace, Stan the Man--a young man gone way too soon. True Story.
Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S. Silvat, Inc., 3896 Oakwood Avenue, Austintown OH 44515. Share memories and send condolences by visiting Stan's obituary page at cremateohio.com.
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