Kenneth Morelli 1961-2023

Ken was born Sept. 6, 1961, to parents Ralph and Peggy Morelli.

Ken was a 1980 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School, where he is remembered best by classmates for his endless entrepreneurial endeavors and thrill-seeking ways.

Ken was an incredible aviation aficionado and became a licensed pilot through the Federal Aviation Administration by obtaining his Private Pilot Certification (PPL). Ken formerly served as both a president and board member of the Warren-Skeets Airport, and also owned his own private aircraft given the tail name N5863P. Among his many accomplishments, Ken parlayed his keen eye for potential business opportunities into investments in many real estate properties, which he took great pride in personally renovating (often with the help of his son, Kyle). Ken also owned and was a partial owner in several businesses including Safe Harbor Recovery in Warren.

Ken married and joined families with his “favorite co-pilot”/ love of his life, Michelle Starr Morelli on April 6, 2004. Together, Ken and Michelle happily shared 19 years of love and adventure. Celebrations and activities for their children and grandchildren decorated their days and served as the foundation for their life together.

It is an impossible task to summarize who Ken was, and what his contributions were to this world. He was many things to many people. At best, it’s fair to say, Ken was truly the epitome of the saying “where there’s a will there’s a way.” Ken saw the potential in things the majority of people missed, and he implored savviness, tenacity, and always a sense of humor, in making those opportunities realities. Whether it was racing cars, photography, playing the stock market, construction, scuba diving, poker playing, or becoming a business owner and licensed pilot, Ken wasn’t afraid to take risks by putting his heart and soul into the relentless pursuit of anything that piqued his interest.

Above all else, Ken was most passionate about contributing a helping hand and / or providing loving mentorship to his children, grandchildren, many friends and family members. It is for these qualities, and so many more, that Ken will remain forever cherished, loved, and missed.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Michelle; and children, Kyle (Hanna) Morelli of Warren, Amanda (Benjamin) Elser of Liberty Hill, Texas, Brittany (Brett) Blanchard of Cranberry, Pa., and Kadie (Chris) Butvin of Warren; his 16 adoring grandchildren, Kyle, Bella, Jaxsen, Gavin, Malena, Braydon, Talen, Peyton, Addison, Grayson, Rosalyn, Stetson, Tenison, Astella, Braxton, and Bria; his sister, Vivian Pease; his brothers, Michael (Alice) Morelli and Daniel (Laura) Morelli; and his mother, Willa “Peggy” Morelli, as well as many extended family members and friends.

Ken was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Morelli; and grandparents, Sam and Marie Morelli; and brother-in-law, Scott Pease.

Kenny battled Wegener’s disease with dignity and grace for over 19 years, and lived life to the fullest every day.

Those who knew him best will remember his “Ken’s World” parties, as he takes his final flight: N5863P Papa … Ready for takeoff.

A celebration of life dinner will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Aulizio’s Catering and Banquet Center, 4395 Youngstown Road SE, Warren, OH 44484.

A tribute to Kenny will follow at 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that loved ones consider honoring Ken, by way of donation to Recovering Together, 2925 Youngstown Road, Warren, OH 44484.

Recovering Together is affiliated with Safe Harbor and the betterment of individuals struggling with drug addiction, which became a principal project for Ken, in recent years.

Caring and professional arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, 330-394-6200. Dedicated to serving your loved ones. This obituary may be viewed, and condolences sent to www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com.

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