Michael Castronova 1961-2026

Michael was born Jan. 26, 1961, in Youngstown, to Michael Castronova and Anita Pauline Castronova.

Michael was a graduate of McDonald High School, Class of 1979, and a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Michael was well known for his drawings, especially sports figures, family portraits and his famous caricatures. He was rarely seen without his Sharpies and paper, ready to draw at any given moment, putting smiles on everyone’s faces.

He followed his father’s love of the sport and became a professional boxer. He took great pride in his career in the ring and with his father in his corner. He was a two-time Golden Gloves champion as an amateur.

As a professional, his career spanned from 1981 to 1987, during which he compiled a record of 23-12 and fought and won two times on ESPN. He also loved to reminisce about the many times he trained and sparred with his longtime friends and future world champions, Ray Mancini and Harry Arroyo. He was also proud to have fought twice in Italy against the likes of Nino La Rocca and Luigi Minchillo, both Italian and European champions. He always appreciated the visits he would get from his extended boxing family.

Michael leaves behind his son, Michael-Vincent Castronova of Spartansburg, South Carolina; his mother, Anita Castronova; siblings, Pat Castronova of Austintown, Judy Castronova of Long Island, New York, Jody (Carmen) Cicero of Niles, Anthony (Becky) Castronova of Lima, Dini (Vince) Ricchiuti of Poland and Dante (Jen) Castronova of Canfield; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Castronova, and his sister-in-law, Vicki Castronova.

We would like to thank Kim Dawkins and the staff at Niles Senior Way for always making Michael feel special. Thank you to the staff at Akeso Health Care for giving Michael comfort in his final days.

Friends and family may call from 10 a.m. until the time of the noon funeral service Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

In lieu of flowers, donate to a charity of your choice or send condolences to Anita Castronova at The Inn at Poland Way, 6501 Poland Way #227, Poland, OH 44514.

Arrangements are being handled by the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles. Family and friends can visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Michael’s family.

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