In Loving Memory of Dr. Alexander J. Vrable: A Life of Compassion, Service, and Faith

CANFIELD, OH — The Canfield community and beyond are mourning the sudden and unexpected passing of Dr. Alexander J. Vrable, who died on June 18, 2025, at the age of 71. A deeply respected physician, a beloved family man, and a pillar of faith and generosity, Dr. Vrable’s loss has left an immense void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His sudden departure has brought sorrow to a wide circle of family, friends, colleagues, and patients, but his life — filled with kindness, service, and unwavering love — will be remembered forever.

Born on July 20, 1953, in Campbell, Ohio, Alexander was the cherished son of the late Alex and Mary (Stanovcak) Vrable. From his earliest years, he displayed a profound sense of compassion, curiosity, and a deep-rooted commitment to the well-being of others — qualities that would define his professional and personal legacy for decades to come.

A proud graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, Class of 1971, Alex went on to earn his undergraduate degree in biology from Westminster College. He pursued his calling in medicine at Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, embarking on what would become a remarkable 40+ year career as a dedicated family practice physician. In every patient he saw and every colleague he mentored, Dr. Vrable exemplified the highest standards of medical care, empathy, and mentorship.

He served honorably as Chief of Staff at Youngstown Osteopathic Hospital, and was an active participant in Centers for Osteopathic Research and Education (CORE), where he mentored countless aspiring physicians — shaping the future of healthcare with his insight, patience, and generosity. Whether he was providing comfort to patients in exam rooms, educating future doctors, or volunteering his medical services for local sports teams, Dr. Vrable gave of himself fully and without hesitation.

Beyond medicine, Alex was a man of many passions. A devoted golfer, he cherished the peaceful moments on the green and the friendship of his fellow players. Among his proudest moments was achieving a hole-in-one on the 11th hole at The Lake Club — a testament to both his skill and the joy he found in the sport. He also enjoyed gardening, cheering on his favorite teams at sporting events, and participating in his long-running monthly card club, which was as much about camaraderie as it was competition.

He was especially involved in youth sports, serving for years as a coach of high school and travel hockey teams, as well as team physician for Campbell Memorial High School football and Golden Gloves Boxing — embodying his commitment to mentorship and community health.

At the heart of everything Alex did was his profound Catholic faith. A lifelong member of St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church, he lived each day as a servant of God — with humility, strength, and grace. His actions were guided by his beliefs, and his life stood as a powerful testament to living with integrity, compassion, and devotion.

Above all else, Dr. Vrable was a family man. He shared 45 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife Annette (Lipari) Vrable, a bond marked by deep love, mutual respect, and unwavering support. Together, they built a family grounded in warmth, laughter, and love. He is survived by his son Dr. Alex Vrable of Fayetteville, NC, and his daughter Dr. Abby Vrable and her fiancé Vincent Thompson of Hudson, OH. He also leaves behind his loving sister Janet Malutic, many extended relatives, and friends who were like family.

Alex was preceded in death by his beloved son Michael Vrable, a heartbreaking loss he carried with enduring strength and grace. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his sister Diane Dattilo, and his in-laws, Judge Jack and Antoinette Lipari.

The Vrable family will receive friends on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel, 3701 Starr Centre Dr, Canfield, OH.

A Funeral of Divine Liturgy will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church, 463 Robinson Rd, Campbell, OH, followed by burial at St. John’s Cemetery.

In honor of Dr. Vrable’s life of giving, the family kindly requests that monetary contributions be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) — a cause that reflects his values of service, sacrifice, and compassion for others.

To send flowers or share condolences with the Vrable family, please visit the funeral home’s website.

Though the world has lost a gifted healer, a loyal friend, and a deeply devoted husband and father, Dr. Alexander J. Vrable’s legacy will endure — in the lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the community he so faithfully served. May his memory be eternal, and may we all strive to reflect the kindness and care he gave so freely.