David Joseph Taraszewski, 56 BOARDMAN - There will be funeral services at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Fox Funeral Home for David Joseph Taraszewski, 56, who passed away Tuesday, June 24, 2014, at ValleyCare Northside Medical Center, in the presence of his loving family. David was born Jan. 16, 1958, in Youngstown, the son of Joseph and Carol Taraszewski. He graduated from Boardman High School in 1976, and earned a bachelor's degree in History from Youngstown State University. He later attended graduate school at John Carroll University in University Heights. David was employed in retail sales, distinguishing himself as a hardworking and reliable employee, whose friendly manner connected easily with people, making strangers into friends, first at Sears, and then later at Champs (Koenigs), both in Boardman and Solon. At the time of his death, he was employed by Target in Mayfield Heights. He was a kind and gentle soul whose life deeply affected those he met. He was a great brother, a great friend, and a great son. He will be forever missed. David loved music, and became a beloved member of Youngstown's music scene, as a guitar player and founding member of the Eight Balls, Youngstown's first punk rock band. It was at Cedar's that David, and a group of like-minded individuals, found a home to develop eclectic interests and flourish. His contributions to Youngstown's music scene rippled far and wide, creating lasting friendships that were cherished by him up until his death. David was also a life-long fan of the Cleveland Indians, and enjoyed watching NASCAR Racing. He had a meticulous passion for cooking and made the most awesome version of Campbell's Tomato soup you've ever eaten. He also enjoyed gardening and making his own rhubarb pie from his own home-grown rhubarb. Dave was also an avid reader and especially liked reading organized crime novels and really enjoyed shopping the Roger's Flea Market. David is survived by his mother, Carol Taraszewski; his brothers, Stephen (Gigi) Taraszewski and Kevin (Cheryl) Taraszewski; his sister, Deborah (Christopher) Wiles; his nieces, Lauren and Rachel Wiles, and Jennifer Taraszewski; and his nephew, Joseph Taraszewski. In addition, he leaves behind his aunts and numerous cousins and friends, as well as his long-time friend, Nancy Burge. David was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Taraszewski. The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at ValleyCare Northside Medical Center for their compassion and care while he was a patient. Family and friends may gather from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday morning at the Fox Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.