Joseph A. Giampietro

AUSTINTOWN — Joseph A. Giampietro, 87, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, at Hospice House.

He was born Oct. 10, 1936, in Youngstown, the son of Charles Giampietro and the former Minnie DiPietro.

Joseph graduated from East High School in 1957. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

In 1971, he joined the Austintown Police Department, where he would leave an indelible mark as a detective lieutenant. Joseph’s career spanned over three decades, during which time he received numerous commendations.

He was selected to head up the newly formed juvenile division in 1974. He was instrumental in establishing the first diversion program in the state of Ohio. This model program was adopted by 70 other law enforcement agencies in Ohio. This led to him receiving a national award from The Foundation for Improvement of Justice in Sept 2001. Joseph was involved and worked closely with many youth organizations in Mahoning County. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joseph was a passionate gardener who took great pride in his lawn. He cherished the friendships formed throughout his career and enjoyed meeting fellow retirees for breakfast.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his wife, the former Pauline Petrillo, whom he married Jan. 5, 1963. 

He is survived by sons, Joseph and Chuck Giampietro, both of Austintown; sister, Cheryl Sylvester of Columbus; and grandchildren, Charles, Jessica and Nicholas Giampietro.

Joseph will be laid to rest in Resurrection Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Rescue Mission of Youngstown, 1300 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44510.

Joseph’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Hospice of the Valley, the 8-south extension at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital and the Antonine Village for their care and compassion.

Arrangements are by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.