Bruce E."Buzzy" Papalia

Bruce E “Buzzy” Papalia, 80

Tampa, Florida…Bruce E “Buzzy” Papalia passed away unexpectedly on May 30, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. He was born on May 24, 1944. Buzzy was the son of the late Bruno and Catherine Papalia. Buzzy grew up in Struthers with his sister Candy. Buzzy was a 1962 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School. He received his bachelor’s degree in finance from Youngstown State University after leaving Dayton University upon him finding out that his father passed away. After graduation, he worked as a stockbroker, insurance agent, and owned various restaurants. Buzzy worked in the Mahoning County Recorder’s Office for many years eventually becoming the Mahoning County Recorder. After serving successfully for several terms, Buzzy retired and moved to Florida with his wife Lucy.

Buzzy was preceded in death by his parents Bruno and Catherine Papalia, his beloved wife Helen “Lucy” Papalia and two of his best friends Pat Traficant and Nicky DiGenova. He leaves behind his sister Candy (Eddie) DeBartolo of Tampa and their family; sister-in-law Joanne (Jerry) DeNicholas of Colorado and their family; daughter Lorraine (Dan) Sciortino of Struthers; son Bruce V Papalia (Gina Cappuccio) of Poland; and his 5 precious grandchildren Nikki, Rhianna, Paolo, Brando, and Ariana “Chi-Chi”.

Buzzy was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved being outdoors especially running his fox dogs, but his true love was when his close friends, son, or grandchildren accompanied him. During this time he truly realized how important it was to pass on these passions along with the “right” morals and values. He loved playing cards along with going to the horse track. Every day he would say, “I’m going to work and I will be back for dinner.” Buzzy absolutely loved watching football and baseball and loved his San Francisco 49ers and New York Yankees. He was so kindhearted and generous and would help anyone who was in need. He loved being with his family and friends. His most gratifying time was when he would spend time with his grandchildren who he loved so deeply. Buzzy loved going to Montana with his brother-in-law Eddie and their friends spending time with “the guys” and playing keno whenever possible. He led a very full and adventurous life, having opportunities that most of us could only dream of having, but never took it for granted and realized how lucky he was. This lead to his infamous storytelling which would make everyone in the room laugh hysterically. He will be truly missed by everyone who knew him and especially by his family.

A mass of Christian Burial, officiated by the Very Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Cariglio will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024 at 10:30 am at Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 343 Via Mount Carmel Ave., Youngstown, Ohio 44505.

The Papalia Family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home.

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