He was born June 10, 1960, in Youngstown, to the late Henry and Veronica Petrunak Christoff.

Dave was a 1978 graduate of Ursuline High School and graduated summa cum laude in 1984 from Youngstown State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in applied science.

Dave was the business systems team lead at Hydro (formerly Easco Aluminum) and was known for his hard work, creative thinking and teamwork.

Dave lived a life marked by his unwavering kindness, outgoing personality and dedication to his family. Dave was known for his ability to talk to anyone and make them feel like a friend. He was his family’s “go-to” for help or advice on just about everything. When in doubt, they could always ask Dad. Dave enjoyed many annual trips to the Outer Banks with his immediate family and extended Wainio family-in-laws. Dave was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends, especially at the “lake house” in Geneva. Dave loved gardening, cooking, being a Skywarn weather spotter, learning about World War II, and most of all, passing down these interests to his grandchildren.

He was a member of Holy Family Parish and a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus, Council 15573.

Dave is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janet Wainio Christoff; and his children, Zachary and Shannon Smrek Christoff, Veronica and Bryce Postolka, and Madeline and Chad Grisnik; along with his cherished grandchildren, Audrey, Alex and Aiden Christoff, and Ellie and Ruth Postolka. He also leaves behind his siblings, Norma Bolina, Joyce (David) Naymick and Henry Christoff; and his many Wainio brothers / sisters in-law, nieces, nephews and friends who were like family to him.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved uncle, Rev. Willam A. Petrunak; and his mother- and father-n-law, Josephine and William M. Wainio Jr.

Dave was a devoted husband, loving dad, “papa” and friend to many.

Family and friends may call 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Holy Trinity Church (250 N. Bridge St., Struthers). A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Trinity Church, 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, celebrated by his nephew, the Rev. William N. Wainio, and high school classmate and friend, the Rev. Kevin W. Peters.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to The Wainio Family Scholarship or the Rev. William A. Petrunak Scholarship, both at Ursuline High School, 750 Wick Ave., Youngstown, OH 44505.

Dave’s legacy is one of love, compassion and generosity and will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His spirit will continue to shine brightly through the memories he created and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the stories shared and the love he leaves behind.

Arrangements respectfully handled by The McCauley Funeral Home.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the funeral home website, www.mccauleyfuneral.com.