Michael J. Yemma

Michael J. Yemma, 58, passed away peacefully with his family at his side, Monday afternoon, June 3, 2024, succumbing to complications stemming from a surgery five years prior.
Michael was born on April 28, 1966 in Youngstown, Ohio, a son of Dr. John J. and Rosetta DePasqua Yemma. Growing up in Struthers, Michael distinguished himself early on as a gifted athlete, playing football and baseball for his hometown team, the Struthers Wildcats. His passion extended beyond sports as he dedicated his time to the Struthers High School radio station, WKTL. He graduated from Struthers High School in 1984 before pursuing further studies at Youngstown State University.
Throughout his diverse career journey, Michael exhibited excellence in various roles. Transitioning from managing clothing stores such as the Merry-Go-Round and D.J.'s Clothing Store in Pittsburgh to serving as a respected correctional officer at the Mahoning County Juvenile Justice Center and later advancing to probation officer. A brief return to sales led him to Greenwood Chevrolet in Austintown before his final chapter at the Mahoning County Board of Elections.
Charismatic and dynamic by nature, Michael possessed an unparalleled charm that could sway hearts and minds effortlessly. His profound knowledge of music stood out; a mere few notes sufficed for him to identify both artist and song title accurately. His love of sports continued as he watched his nieces and nephews in their sporting activities and just like a coach, he was always there to offer good sound advice on their plays. His other loves included the Pittsburgh Steelers, convertibles, the sun, beach, dogs, and family.  
Michael's zest for life remained unflinching even in his darkest hours. While he never had children of his own, his nieces and nephews held a special place in his heart - embodying his legacy: "Be true to yourself."
With heavy hearts yet fond memories, Michael will be remembered for his love, laughter, and unwavering positivity.
Michael leaves behind his cherished mother, Rosetta Yemma; two sisters, Lynn (Sean) Yemma and their children, Taylor, Sammy and Anthony Valiquette, Regina (Aaron) Yemma-Stransky and their children, Alyssa Malpass, Vincent and Nicholas Pagley; four brothers, John (Dawn) Yemma, and his children, Brittany, Joshua, Jordan, and Mikayla, Mark Yemma and his children, Elena and Nathaniel, Brian (Kristen) Yemma and their children, Brianna, Kaelen, Lukas, and Isaiah, David (Danielle) Yemma and their children, Austin, Cameron, and Aiden; eleven great-nieces and nephews; aunt, Gloria Wilson; as well as treasured cousins and friends who stood by him unconditionally.
Preceding Michael in death are his father Dr. John J. Yemma Sr; maternal grandparents, Ralph and Erma DePasqua; paternal grandparents, Rocco and Ann Yemma.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Dr. Gregory Huang - the trauma surgeon who saved Michael's life - alongside Roseann Lisko and Ryan Ervin of Sanctuary Hospice.
In honoring Michael's adoration for the Pittsburgh Steelers, attire of gold and black is encouraged for visitation hours. In lieu of flowers Michael's family requests any memorial donations be made in Michael's honor to the Dr. John J. Yemma Sr., Memorial Scholarship at Youngstown State University Bitonte College of Health and Human Services.
A funeral service honoring Michael's life will be held Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland with Mark Brungard officiating. 
Family will receive friends, Monday, June 10, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Tuesday, June 11, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m.