Edwin J Marini

Ed was born in Alliance, OH on April 3, 1925, to Candido and Cecilia Marini. He enlisted in the Navy right after graduating from Alliance High School in 1943. He was commissioned an Ensign in 1945 and returned home in August 1946. Shortly after returning to Alliance, he met the love of his life at a dance, Eleanor Streza. They were married in 1950 and celebrated 70 years of marriage in 2020 before she passed. 

After enrolling in Mount Union College, Ed graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1949. He started his teaching career in Mahoning County where he taught for 2 1/2 years. In July 1952 he became the Ravenna Instrumental music director and marching and concert band director. He quickly began developing the programs until consolidation of the Ravenna City and Ravenna Township School Districts in 1960. He completed his Master’s Degree in Music Education from Vandercook College of Music in 1968. 

 Ed, as a music supervisor, along with Joseph Schiavone, Charles Boggess, Douglas Bennet and several talented vocal music teachers, developed the instrumental, marching band, concert band and vocal music programs into one of the finest programs in Northeast Ohio. 

 Ed had a special talent for bringing out the best efforts of his students. The students responded year after year by returning from solo and ensemble competitive events with the highest rating, Superior. Over the years, many of his students have kept in contact with him. 

 Upon retiring in 1977, Ed began a woodwind repair business out of his home. He serviced schools in Portage and Summit counties for over 30 years. He became more active in the community, serving on the Park and Recreation Board for 20 years, several of those years as chairman. He was President of the Lions Club when it was active in the city. He also kept busy with his Ed Marini Combo, playing accordion and piano at many wedding receptions and local restaurants. Ed was honored to be inducted into the Ravenna Raven Hall of Fame in 1994. 

 Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor, his parents and two brothers, Frank and Louis and their spouses. He is survived by his sons, Mark and Paul, their spouses, 5 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.