John J. Lerario, age 77 of Canton, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025 surrounded by family. He was born in Canton on January 30, 1948 to the late Joseph and Angeline (Scozzarella) Lerario, Sr. John attended St. Benedict's Grade School, and graduated from Timken High School.

John learned to play the tenor saxophone as a child and was a fierce musician. Over the years he was a member of several bands. John began fishing at Birch Hill Camp when they opened in 1960. He was a faithful patron who became family and made many memories there.

John and his wife, Christina, owned two restaurants. Lerario's Restaurant was located on 12th street in Canton and was in operation from 1976-1986. They opened another restaurant in Gnadenhutton named the Settlement House (1980-1986). They served homemade authentic Italian food and the two restaurants had many faithful customers. He spent a few years in sales with John Hancock and JB McCoy where he earned multiple awards for his sales.

Loving the restaurant business, he dedicated himself for the last 20 plus years to Doug's Classic 57 in Alliance. He planned and ran almost every classic car show since taking over as manager. He was also known at Doug's for his famous meatloaf and lasagna. He was a cherished asset to Doug's over the years. He was a huge fan of OSU, Cleveland Indians, and the San Francisco 49rs. John enjoyed music, gardening, fishing, cooking, golfing, and making memories and friends.

He was loved by many and will be dearly missed. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Joseph, Jr., Mark, and James "Jim" Lerario. John is survived by his sister Diane Kimble; ex wife Christina Lerario; his children Raegan (John) Lucio of Graysville, Ohio, Michael Lerario of Louisville, and Dominic (Chelsea) Lerario of Canal Fulton; thirteen grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

There will be a celebration of life at Doug's Classic 57 (2031 Rockhill Ave, Alliance, Ohio 44601) on Thursday, June 26th from 5:00-7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers the family asks to please make donations to help cover final expenses.

ROSSI (330) 492-5830

www.rossifuneralhomeinc.com