Armando Rucci, 99, of Struthers, passed away peacefully on Friday afternoon, August 7, 2026, surrounded by the loving presence of his devoted family.

Armando was born on June 25, 1927, in Sepino, Italy, a son of the late Luigi and Maria (Vincenzo) Rucci. Proud of his Italian heritage and grateful for the life he was blessed to build in America, Armando carried with him throughout his 99 years the values instilled in him by his family and his homeland: humility, hard work, loyalty, faith, and an unwavering devotion to family.

Armando immigrated to the United States in 1947, sailing on the SS Saturnia and entering through Ellis Island. He met the love of his life, Sylvia Macciomei, on a blind date and the two were married in 1952. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, sacrifice, and countless cherished memories. Sylvia was not only his beloved wife, but his partner and the heart of the home they created together. Although she preceded him in death in 2003, Armando carried her memory and their love with him for the rest of his life. His family takes comfort in the thought that, through God’s grace, they are together again.

Armando worked as a blacksmith, a trade that he learned in Italy. He had an extensive career at Republic Steel, retiring as a shipper. Outside of work, Armando took great pride in his home. From keeping an immaculate yard to helping with all home repairs to tending to his garden, there wasn’t really anything he couldn’t do. Armando was also proud and grateful to have been able to stay in his own home until his last days.

Armando was devoted to his Catholic faith. His faith was not simply a part of his life—it was the foundation upon which he built it. He was a faithful member of Christ Our Savior Parish at St. Nicholas Church, where he found strength in prayer, comfort in the sacraments, and joy in worshipping alongside his fellow parishioners and family. His devotion to the Catholic Church remained steadfast throughout his life, and he treasured the traditions of his faith that had been passed down through generations.

To know Armando was to know a truly humble and kind man. He never sought recognition or praise. He did not need to be the center of attention; he was happiest simply being surrounded by the people he loved. He possessed a quiet strength but a deep belly laugh that was infectious to all who was around.

Armando was especially proud of his Italian roots. He carried the traditions, stories, food, customs, and family values of his homeland with him, passing them down to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life was a testament to the courage and determination of an immigrant who came to America, worked hard, remained true to his roots, and built a better future for the generations who followed.

His greatest legacy, however, was never measured in possessions or accomplishments. It was found in his family. One thing he would always say when his children got married was that his daughters and son-in-law were not just “in-laws” to him – they became his children and he treated them as his own.

Armando will forever be remembered and deeply missed by his children, Marie Mrosko of Woodstock, VA, daughter-in-law, Laura Rucci of Struthers and sons, Dennis (Karen) Rucci of Youngstown and Richard (Denise) Rucci of Jamestown, PA; grandchildren, Stephen Mrosko, Matthew (Sarah) Mrosko, Timothy (Shannon) Mrosko, David (Danielle) Mrosko, Christine Mrosko, and Rachel (Luke) Mersinger, Lisa Rucci (Travis Mackall), Jennifer (Joseph) Fellows, Michael (Emmy) Rucci, Melanie Rucci (Quentin Roberts), Marissa Rucci and Richie Rucci; great-grandchildren, Conner, Michael Jeffrey, Leah, Stephen Jr., David Jr., Max, Dylan, Lucy, James, Madielynn, Kailynn, and Logan.

Armando experienced the deepest joys and the most difficult sorrows a family can know. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sylvia; his brother, Joseph (Jean); his grandson, Nicholas; his son, Armando Nicholas; his son-in-law, Richard and his infant great-grandson, Anthony.

Though the years brought profound loss, Armando never lost his faith. He continued to pray, to trust in God, and to cherish the family who surrounded him. In his final days, his loved ones were blessed to be near him, surrounding him with the same love and devotion he had given them throughout his life.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 10:30 am to 12:15 pm at the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 1pm at Christ Our Savior Parish, Saint Nicholas Church, 764 5th Street Struthers, OH with Rev. Christopher Cicero presiding and Rev. John Jerek concelebrating.

Burial will take place in Lake Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Armando’s name to "Nick’s Kids" that will provide hot school lunches for children in need. Please make all donations payable to: Boardman Food Services memo Nick’s Kids. Send to: Boardman Food Service Department, 7410 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512.

Or to Hospice of the Valley at the following link: https://secure.givebsmh.org/site/Donation2?df_id=3021&mfc_pref=T&3021.donation=form1&pw_id=0

Armando’s family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Maged Awadalla, nurse Melissa, Edy from Full Circle Home Healthcare, and the Hospice House all for the their tender loving care of Armando throughout his life and in his final days.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Armando’s family.