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Gerald G. Bodnar 1955-2019

LORDSTOWN — Gerald G. “Jerry” Bodnar, 63, noted local musician, passed away Wednesday evening, March 20, 2019, at Trumbull Regional Medical Center in Warren, following a lengthy struggle with carcinoid cancer, surrounded by his family.

Gerald was born Sept. 10, 1955, in Youngstown, a son of the late John and Anna Zemko Bodnar and lived locally his entire life.

He was a 1973 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School, and worked in the steel industry for 40 years, last working for ArcelorMittal in Warren. He was a stationary engineer, licensed by the state of Ohio.

While in high school, Jerry belonged to the concert choir for all four years, where he formed lasting and lifetime relationships. He continued developing his musical interests and talents afterwards and was an accomplished musician, performing in the Mahoning Valley for over 30 years. He performed as the Jerry B. Combo at night clubs and for private parties, and he was highly-regarded by fellow musicians as one of the best organists and keyboard players in the area. He also had a beautiful and unique singing voice that will be remembered by all who heard him perform.

Besides music, Jerry enjoyed classic cars and had a fondness for Corvettes. He also loved horses, and he and his wife, Lisa, operated “God’s Little Acre,” an equestrian farm in Lordstown.

He was raised and baptized in the Byzantine Catholic faith at St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Youngstown.

Gerald leaves his wife, Lisa Moore Bodnar, whom he married Sept. 15, 2000; five children, Stacey Bodnar of Youngstown, Scott Bodnar of Newton Falls, Michael (Ashley) Woodring of Brookfield, William Woodring of Cleveland and Melissa Woodring (fiance, A.J. Mullins) of Niles; four grandchildren, Alexis, Brookelynn, Hunter and Max; and a brother, Ronald R. (Susan) Bodnar of Dumfries, Va.; many nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and great-nephews; and many extended family members.

Besides his parents, a brother, John M. Bodnar; and a sister, MaryAnn Bodnar, are deceased.

Family and friends may gather 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 24, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown. Interment will take place in St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Cemetery.

Please visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view and share this obituary, and to send condolences online to Jerry’s family.

(special notice)