Donald T. Knight 1943–2025

Born Oct. 18, 1943, in Youngstown, to John and Mary Knight, Donny lived a life defined by generosity, faith, humor and a deep love for the people around him.

Donny was a faithful man and a lifelong parishioner of St. Rose Catholic Church, having attended St. Rose School as a boy. He led his life through his faith. He was also a proud graduate of Girard High School, Class of 1962.

From 1965 to 1967, Don proudly served his country in the United States Army. Shortly after completing his service, he met his wife, Shirley, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. They were married Oct. 24, 1970, and together raised three daughters.

Donny continued his work as a meat cutter for Sparkle Market, where he was known for his hard work and the friendly spirit that greeted every customer. Partnering with his twin, he owned the Sparkle Market on Elm Road in Warren for a period of time. He retired after 45 years of dedicated work — appropriately — on his favorite holiday, St. Patrick’s Day.

Donny was a gifted storyteller whose stories could fill a room with laughter. He never met a stranger; no matter where he went, he took a genuine interest in others, always asking about their families, their stories and their well-being. His joys were simple and heartfelt, playing cards, spending time at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, and being surrounded by his beloved family and many friends.

He shared a special bond with his best friend and twin, Ronnie Knight.

Don is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirley Kastello Knight; his daughters, Amy (Craig) Blackburn of Stow, Kelly (Robert) Colapietro of Girard and Dawn Knight (Brian McDonald) of Elmore, Vermont; and his grandchildren, Bobby Colapietro, Amelia McDonald and Olivia McDonald. He also leaves behind his siblings, twin brother, Ronald (Marianne) Knight of McDonald, Joseph (Linda) Knight of Kansas City, James Knight of Girard, Jan Knight of Girard and Janie (Tom) Sipusic of Girard; and his sister-in-law, Nancy Knight of Jefferson. Donny is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who are family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Knight; siblings, Jack Knight, Ray Knight, Anne Knight, Coleen Rubinic, Paul Rubinic and Johnny Knight; and brother-in-law, Patrick Sipusic.

The Knight family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Donny’s care team, Dr. Hassan of the Cleveland Clinic and the staff of the Taussig Cancer Center and Hospice of the Valley, for their kindness and compassion. A special thanks to Richard Crish and Dr. Rene Cuadra for their care and support to Donny and the family in his time of need.

Family and friends may call 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 222 S. State St., Girard.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, at the funeral home. Funeral services will begin at 11:15 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at noon at St. Rose Church, 48 E. Main St., Girard.

A committal service with military honors will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Donald’s name to St. Vincent de Paul Trumbull County, 2431 Niles Road SE., Warren, OH 44484.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Donny’s family.

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