COLUMBIANA… Walter J. Vrabel, age 72, passed away peacefully Saturday September 12, 2026 at Hospice House in Poland. Walt was born July 21, 1954 in Youngstown and was a son of Victor and Theresa (Wroblewski) Vrabel and was a lifelong area resident. He married Rita, the love of his life, in 1976 and shared his accomplishments with her for over 50 years.

He was a 1972 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School where he was a proud and valuable member of the track and football teams. He furthered his education at Kent State University and became a teacher, football and track coach at Jackson-Milton Schools. He also coached football at Ursuline High School in Youngstown.

He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, brother, uncle, and steadfast friend. Walt was a man whose loyalty, strength, kindness, and faith in the Lord left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He loved his family deeply, cherished his friendships, and never hesitated to show up for the people he cared about.

In high school, Walt was notorious for his 76-yard punt, tackles on the field, winning a State Championship in Shot Put his senior year, and awarded many 1st team selections locally and regionally. In 2001, he was inducted into the Campbell Memorial Hall of Fame. After committing to Kent State, he was a member of the 1972 MAC championship team which went on to play in Tangerine Bowl that year. After all his accomplishments at Kent State, he ended his career as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2000, he was inducted into the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame.

He was a man among boys, a giant among men and a legend among giants. Walt used his many talents to curate a life that reflected God’s love. He served in many different roles at Victory Christian Center in Coitsville, Ohio including security and performing in plays. Walt was involved in FCA and taught Bible studies and was known for his gift of hospitality. Walt valued spending time with his family and serving others and found fun and unique ways to do both. The way he created opportunities for people to connect and feel God’s love was nothing short of inspiring. He moved us with the music he created, blessed us with the food that he made, and made us feel welcome by hosting gatherings all year long.

Walt’s legacy has taught us that sometimes God gives the strongest soldiers the toughest battles. There is peace in knowing that he has won this battle and is now resting with the Lord.

Walt is survived by his loving wife the former Rita C. Masi; whom he married May 23, 1976. He is also survived by his children Jarrod (Kim) Vrabel of Struthers, Jenna (Chris) Reynolds of North Canton; his grandchildren Vanessa, Anthony and Maria Vrabel, Riley and Corrina Reynolds. Walt also leaves his sister Sharon Vrabel of Campbell, his sister-in-law Diane Vrabel of Campbell; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins whom he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Victor Vrabel.

The Vrabel family has entrusted Walt’s care to the Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell, where family and friends may call on Tuesday September 15, 2026 from 3-5pm. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 5pm.

Walt will be laid to rest at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Cemetery in Lowellville.

To view this obituary and to leave condolences with the family please visit www.waskofamily.com