Michael Castronova

Michael Castronova, 65, of Niles, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Niles Senior Way.

Michael was born on January 26, 1961 in Youngstown, Ohio to Michael Castronova and Anita Pauline Castronova.

Michael was a graduate of McDonald High School, class of 1979 and a graduate of the Pittsburgh Art Institute. Michael was well known for his drawings, especially sports figures, family portraits, and his famous caricatures. He was rarely seen without his sharpies and paper, ready to draw at any given moment, putting smiles on everyone’s faces.

He followed his father’s love of the sport and became a professional boxer. He took great pride in his career in the ring and with his father in his corner. He was a two-time Golden Gloves champion as an amateur.

As a professional, his career spanned from 1981-1987, during which he compiled a record of 23-12 and fought and won two times on ESPN. He also loved to reminisce about the many times he trained and sparred with his longtime friends and future world champions Ray Mancini and Harry Arroyo. He was also proud to have fought twice in Italy against the likes of Nino La Rocca and Luigi Minchillo, both Italian and European champions. He always appreciated the visits he would get from his extended boxing family.

Michael leaves behind his son, Michael-Vincent Castronova, of Spartansburg, South Carolina, his mother, Anita Castronova, siblings Pat Castronova of Austintown, Judy Castronova of Long Island, NY, Jody (Carmen) Cicero of Niles, Anthony (Becky) Castronova of Lima, Dini (Vince) Ricchiuti of Poland, Dante (Jen) Castronova of Canfield, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Castronova, and his sister-in-law, Vicki Castronova.

We would like to thank Kim Dawkins and the staff at Niles Senior Way for always making Michael feel special. Thank you to the staff at Akeso Health Care for giving Michael comfort in his final days.

Friends and family may call Friday, March 13, 2026 at The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles, Ohio from 10:00 a.m until the time of the noon funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice or send condolences to Anita Castronova at the The Inn at Poland Way, 6501 Poland Way, #227, Poland, Ohio, 44514.

Arrangements are being handled by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.