Richard "Rick" C. Gattuso left this world on his 76th birthday, September 14, 2025. Born and raised in Canton, the son of the late Charles Sr. and Pauline (Sarno) Gattuso, Rick lived a life that was equal parts music, laughter, family, and really good food (preferably grown in his own garden).

Rick grew up on Lake Cable, where he first learned to appreciate the simple joys of being outside—enjoying activities like fishing and hunting. But while he loved the outdoors, Rick's truest passion was always music. A gifted pianist, he could transform any room into a concert hall. His jazz piano skills were remarkable, and he played in countless bands throughout his life, filling homes, clubs, and gatherings with his signature sound. Rick graduated from Jackson High School in 1967.

Music wasn't just Rick's passion, it was also his life's work. As the owner and operator of Gattuso's Music & More, downtown Canton's oldest music store, Rick dedicated himself to sharing music with others. The store became more than a shop; it was a gathering place for students, parents, and musicians of all kinds. Thousands of children learned to play music through the lessons offered at Gattuso's, and Rick worked tirelessly to make music accessible to families by creating an instrument rental program for parents. He loved nothing more than seeing a child discover the joy of music for the first time, and he partnered closely with local schools to help their programs thrive. Even after his daughter Marcella took over the business, Rick never really retired. He stayed active in the store, which he loved so much, right up until just a few weeks before his passing.

Rick was also a true entrepreneur. In the late 1980s, he and Maggie launched a second business, Unitec, which designs and manufactures custom instrument cases that are 100% American made. Unitec grew into a respected company, supplying major universities, schools, military bands, OEM partners, and music dealers nationwide. The company was a perfect reflection of Rick's values—hard work, quality craftsmanship, and a love of music.

Of course, when he wasn't playing the piano or in the store, Rick could usually be found in the kitchen or garden. He poured his energy into his backyard oasis, growing tomatoes, peppers, and herbs with the same patience and pride he showed in his music. Meals with Rick often began in the garden and ended with everyone gathered around the table, full and happy.

But above all else, Rick's favorite thing in the world was his beloved wife of 55 years, Maggie. The two were inseparable, true best friends who built a life full of laughter, music, and family traditions. Rick's pride and joy extended to his daughters, Melissa (John) Schoessel and Marcella (Bobby) Petry, and his treasured grandchildren—Kathryn, Tessa, Sophia, and Gianna. Family traditions were Rick's love language, whether it was teaching his grandkids to hunt for dandelions, hosting pool days complete with his signature playlists, or gathering everyone together to share a meal of delicious Italian cuisine. His happiest days were the loud ones surrounded by family, with grandkids splashing in the pool, Maggie laughing nearby, and music floating through the air.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, daughters, grandchildren, siblings (Charles II, Dennis, and Pamela), and many extended family members, including his Goddaughter Molly Cobb (Jason) and honorary grandson Carson Michael. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Sr. and Pauline.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Rick's life the way he would have wanted—with stories, laughter, and, of course, music—on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lake Cable Club House at 5725 Fulton Rd NW. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://www.gofundme.com/honor-rick-gattuso-support-for-maggie .

ROSSI (330) 492-5830

www.rossifuneralhomeinc.com