Donald Joseph Fariello aged 73 of Aurora, Ohio was promoted to heaven on February 19, 2024, while surrounded by the love of his family. Don was born in Cincinnati, OH to the late Joseph and Margaret Fariello (nee Ruhl) and was raised alongside his 4 sisters Pat Huber, Cathy (Courtney) Corgan, Peggy (Bear) Reynolds, and Sally Fariello (Jack Brandner). Don met the love of his life, JoAnn, in high-school and they were married for over 47 years. Don and JoAnn shared an everlasting love with many blessings. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three children, Tony (Amanda) Fariello, Tina (Bo) Sewell, and Vicki (Craig) Horvat. He found endless joy in his grandchildren: Mia and Vinny Fariello, Bella and Sophia Sewell, and Toby, Wesely and Dax Horvat. Bucka and Papa as he was known by his grandchildren absolutely adored him. Don was a supportive Uncle who treasured his bond with all of his nieces and nephews.
Everywhere he went Don knew somebody. He was a lifelong, devoted friend to so many including his friends on North Avenue that he played with as a kid, friends from St. Johns and Moeller, friends and neighbors from Cincinnati, Aurora, Four Seasons and Forest Ridge, church, military and work – just a testament to the kind of friend Don was and his love for others.
Don’s faith was central to his life, and he knew in his heart that he was God’s. His Catholic beliefs were his stronghold and he found peace in attending daily mass. His faithful example inspired many of his family and friends whether he intended to or not; it was simply a consequence of others experiencing his spirit and wanting to replicate it for themselves and those they love. He lived by his mantra of Faith, Family, Friends and Finances. Don was a good steward and provider for his family. He was always humble and so very generous to others.
His smile would light up a room and he was known for his loud and infectious laughter, as well as his ability to sing “Day-O”. He was a friend to all and was the life of the party. Incredibly, even in the midst of a lively party he found a way to connect with you, heart-to-heart, which left you feeling like the most important person in the room. Anyone who knew him had a ‘Don story’ whether it be sentimental or hilarious or both. He lives on in each of us who were so lucky to have him impact our lives in so many remarkable ways. “Goodnight, I love you, you are better than the best.”
Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME 356 W. AURORA RD. (OHIO RTE. 82) SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2024 FROM 4-8 P.M. Funeral Mass Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 1:30 P.M. Church of the Holy Angels, 18205 Chillicothe Road, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023. Please meet at church. In lieu of flowers, family requests Masses be offered for Don.
