Harry R, Boggins

Boardman – Harry R. Boggins, 74, of Boardman, who passed away at the hospital Wednesday morning, February 8, 2017, after a brief illness.

Harry was born on October 22, 1942 in Youngstown, the son of Robert and Ruth (Carter) Boggins.  In Harry’s early years, after his Dad died, he and his Mom lived mainly at his grandparents’ house at 54 Leah Avenue in Youngstown, and he has lived at 4462 Lockwood Boulevard for most of the past 59 years.  Harry was the “Mayor of Lockwood Boulevard,” and when the weather was nice, was always sitting out in front, watching the world go by.  Total strangers would often beep and wave at him.

Harry was born with cerebral palsy and was confined to a wheelchair most of his life.  Despite his affliction, he never complained, and his only regret was that he couldn’t drive a car.  His mental abilities were awesome. He had almost a photographic memory and he had incredible practical wisdom.  He was blessed with an amazing ability to make friends.  Everyone just wanted to hang out with Harry.  At his house, the sound of laughter was constant.

He loved listening to music, watching “The Young and the Restless,” and, until recent years, getting on his tractor to cut the grass or plow the snow.  He was always interested in cars, and could i.d. a make and model in an instant.

His family and friends will always cherish his memory.  He leaves his aunt and uncle, Jeanne and James Blackstone of Boardman, his aunt Sally Wittenauer of Naples, Florida, his cousins James Blackstone of Naples, Alan Wittenauer of Naples, Jeff, Barb, Spencer, and Lauren Blackstone of Bardstown, Kentucky, Jay and T.J. Blackstone of Boardman, Janet and Katherine Kessler of Boardman, and he had such great friends over the years: Arthur, Artie, and Lois Vitullo, Bunny, Carol, Sherry, Larry Sullivan, Larry Landgraff, Joanie, Wanda, Loren, Kathy, Louise, Danny, Sandy and Morris, and the leaders of the “Lockwood Gang,” Patty Campy and Jim Noble.

Harry is rejoining the sweetest Mom, Ruth, the most caring grandparents, Harry and Viola Carter, and the most fun uncle, Ray Wittenauer.

Harry, you made it “over the rainbow.”  We will never forget you.

Family and friends may celebrate Harry’s life on Sunday, February 12, 2017 from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Harry’s house at 4462 Lockwood Blvd., Boardman.

Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Youngstown.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman (new location).

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com. to view this obituary, sign the guest book and send condolences to Harry’s family.

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