Ronald Starvaggi, Sr.

SUMMIT TWP. – Ronald J. Starvaggi, Sr., age 71, passed away on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 from complications of a burn injury.  The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses of UPMC Mercy Burn Center in Pittsburgh for their exceptional care and support. 

He was born in Erie, PA on April 6, 1951, a son of the late Frank and Agnes (Ore) Starvaggi. 

He graduated from Ft. LeBoeuf High School and was previously a volunteer firefighter at the Perry Hwy. Hose Co.  Ron was a loving father and grandfather to all his children and grandkids. Ron had a passion for anything with engines and wheels, especially XS-650 Yamaha Twins. Ron was a life-long racing fan and began racing when he was a teenager.  He raced motorcross, drag raced motorcycles and stock cars at Eriez Speedway, Stateline Speedway, Lowville Drag Raceway/Lucky’s Drag City, Thompson Raceway and Norwalk Dragway/Summit Motorsports Park just to name a few.  Ron was a NASCAR technical inspector at Lake Erie Speedway in North East, PA for several years beginning in 2001.  Ron also taught auto mechanics at Erie County Technical School in early the early 2000s.  He was an avid John Force fan and met him several times at national races.  In his younger years, Ron played guitar in a rock band, The 11^th Hr, and was a photographer for rock concerts at the Erie Fieldhouse. 

Ron worked as an automotive technician and paint artist throughout his life into retirement. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 33 years, Nancy Starvaggi; a brother, Gary Starvaggi; and nephew, Lee Starvaggi. 

Ron is survived by his son, Ronald J. Starvaggi, Jr. (LeAnn); son, Tommy Gorniak (Raquel); and daughter, Jenny Mitchell.  He is further survived by seven grandchildren Shannon, Ariel, Marshall, Karina, Lucas, Zachary, and Stella; One great-grandson Dylan; Many brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. 

Friends may call at the Quinn Funeral Home, 728 W. 9^th St., on Friday, October 7, 2022 from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm and are invited to attend Funeral Services there on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at 11:00 am with burial to follow at Lakeside Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of the funeral home. 

Condolences can be sent to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com.