GIRARD, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – On Sunday, April 9, 2023, Robert James Celli, age 72 of Girard, Ohio, died at Greenbriar health Care Center in Boardman.

He was born in Youngstown on July 15, 1950 to Joseph Ralph and Rose Marie (Conti) Celli.

Robert is survived by his children, Patrick Celli and Jennifer Celli, both of Austintown; brother, Joe (the late Anita) of Girard; niece, Kimberly (Chris) Marino of Weathersfield Township and nephew, Joe (Janet) celli of McDonald.

Robert attended St. Rose School and graduated from Liberty High School in 1968 where he excelled in golf. In 1965 his team competed at the state level. Bob went on to attend The Ohio State University and was one of the school’s biggest football fans.

As Robert got older, he coached football at both St. Rose School and Liberty High School. He was a master craftsman and made cabinetry for over 30 years.

Bob was a World War II historian and an animal lover. His dogs were his best buddies but by far his biggest passion was the music of Bobby Vee. Bob was president of his fan club, an avid collector and archivist of his memorabilia and collaborated closely with him producing his “Rarities” album and writing liner notes for other albums. They had a close friendship with Bobby Vee for most of his adult life.

Public viewing will be held on Friday, April 14, 2023, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S. Silvat, Inc., 3896 Oakwood Avenue, Austintown, OH 44515.

Share memories and send condolences by visiting cremateohio.com.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Trumbull County Animal Welfare League.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert James Celli, please visit our floral store.

A television tribute will air Thursday, April 13 at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing.