Mr. Marino A. Parascenzo, 95, of Franklin Township, passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Trinity Oaks Personal Care Home.
Born on August 20, 1930, Marino was the son of the late Demeterio and Dena (DePaul) Parascenzo. He graduated from Lincoln High School before enlisting in the United States Air Force. After his service, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Penn State University.
Marino devoted his life to sports journalism, beginning at the Ellwood City Ledger and the New Castle News, and ultimately retiring from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette as an award-winning sportswriter. Over his distinguished career, he received numerous honors, including the PGA of America Lifetime Achievement Award, recognition from both the Masters Tournament in Augusta, GA, and the Memorial Tournament in Dublin, OH, and acknowledgments from the University of Pittsburgh, where he also served as a guest lecturer in Sports Journalism.
An accomplished author, Marino wrote two books chronicling the history of Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, PA. He was a member of Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church, and the Ellwood City Historical Society. He also served as past president of the Golf Writers Association of America and enjoyed playing golf in his free time.
Marino is survived by his wife of 63 years, Leona (Koziar) Parascenzo, whom he married on April 27, 1962; his daughter, Marina (Christopher) Parascenzo-Brush of Seattle, WA; his granddaughter, Lily Brush of Seattle, WA; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Hugh A. “Hughy” Parascenzo, and sisters, Mary Ann Ferruchie, Henrietta Zona, and Concetta “Connie” Caminite.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 4–7 p.m., and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the blessing service at 11:00 a.m., with Father Jim Wehner officiating, at the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. Entombment will follow at Holy Redeemer Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded. Members of the Veterans Honor Guard are asked to meet at the cemetery on Friday by 11:15 a.m.
Memorial donations in Marino’s name may be made to Divine Grace Parish Social Services.
5 Comments
I extend my deepest condolences in the passing of your husband. It has ben many years since I have
Seen you but I remember what a great couple you were. I also remember reading articles that Marino had written
In the sports page of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette and would always comment to my husband that I knew him and had been taught by you. With Pride. I will remember Marino and you in my prayers.
Leona, I’m sorry for your loss but I know my father is greeting Marino with a cup of Grappa in heaven -if it is allowed. This would be followed by a healthy serving of Durian, another one of his favorites. I met Marino on the road a few times but the most memorable visit was when he and a nephew (?) stayed in a place in Augusta for the Masters with dad and I What an irascible and wonderful guy he was and dad thoroughly enjoyed their banter. Please give my sentiments to your family.
I’ve known Marino since 1993. He was a satellite TV customer that became a good friend. We’ve had great conversations over the years. When others have a long story can get boring, but when Marino told a story it was interesting from the beginning to the end. He was also a very good listener. When I went to Geneva for the degree completion program he volunteered
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I knew Marino through writing about golf, and I always enjoyed our conversations. He was an interesting, thoughtful man and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Condolences to Leona & Marina.
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