John Dota Obituary

      It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Raymond Dota, a beloved father, grandfather and friend who left us peacefully, Tuesday, July 1, 2025, surrounded by family. John was a cornerstone of love and support in the lives of those who knew him.

     He was born June 25, 1931, in Youngstown. With a generous spirit, John dedicated his life to helping others. He was the type of person who would drop everything to lend a hand, whether it was cooking holiday dinners that brought the family together or tending to his daughter’s gardens. John always cared to ensure his daughter’s yards were always a picture of care and beauty. He had a genuine gift of unselfishly putting others’ needs before his own. His love for family was evident in every meal shared, every garden tended and every moment spent together. Always displaying his warm and big heart, demonstrated by his commitment to help family and friends. He always showed an unselfish desire to assist loved ones irrespective of the time of day or night. Never denying assistance or saying “No” to any request for help. 

     John devoted his entire life to caring for family and friends. His greatest love was for his daughters and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by them all. On each holiday throughout the year, our dad would inquire as to whether we knew anyone who was going to be without family nearby and without food. He would insist over and over that they join us for our family holiday celebration. Our father couldn’t bear having anyone alone and hungry during the holidays. This is who our father was, a caring and gentle soul. John had a special bond with his grandchildren, always cheering them on in their endeavors and celebrating their achievements with pride. He found joy in their laughter and was a constant source of encouragement, reminding them that they could achieve anything they set their minds to.

      An avid gambler, John found excitement in the thrill of the game, particularly at Mountaineer Casino, where he could often be found rolling the dice at the craps table. His playful spirit and zest for life were infectious. He brought that same enthusiasm to every dinner out with his daughters, where stories were shared and laughter echoed. Traveling was another passion of John’s, especially the cherished trips to Disney and Lake George with his wife and daughters. Additionally, he looked forward to annual trips to Lake Charlevoix in Northern Michigan with his family and grandchildren, where he enjoyed boating and adopting the lakeside lifestyle. These adventures created lasting memories filled with joy and the magic of family togetherness.

     John was a man who lived life fully. His legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering support will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life that taught us the true meaning of family and generosity.

     John served in the armed services as a member of the Army Air Corps and the U.S. Air Force from 1948 to 1952 as a sergeant in the Military Police during the Korean War. During his years in the Air Force, he was a professional welterweight boxer. He was extremely proud of his service to his country.

     John was preceded in death by his wife, Katherine Tankovich Dota, whom he married Feb. 23, 1963, and to this union two daughters were born, Mrs. Christine (Michael) Engoian and Mrs. Colleen (Vincent) Riccardo, both of Canfield. He is survived by four grandchildren, Anastasia and Jacqueline Cook, Rachel (Chuck) Christopher and Vincent Riccardo; brother, Richard Dota; and sister-in-law, Catherine Tankovich. John was preceded in death by his parents, Dahlia and Frank Dota Sr.; his brother, Frank Dota Jr.; sister, Barbara Lee (Dota) Georges; and brother and sister-in-laws, Donald Tankovich, Dorothy (Tankovich) Thomas and Mary Tankovich.

      Rest in Peace, dear Dad. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Calling hours will be 8 to 9:30 a.m. Monday, July 7, at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home in Canfield, followed by a 10 a.m. service at St. Michael Catholic Church, 300 N. Broad St., Canfield, with the Rev. John-Michael Lavelle officiating. A special “Thank You” to the caring and devoted staff of St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center in Columbiana.

    This obituary can be viewed and condolences sent to www.higgins-reardon.com.