Louis "Lou" Anthony DiStefano

Louis “Lou” A. DiStefano of Canal Fulton, 66, born in Canton to Clayton and Marilyn DiStefano, died unexpectedly on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at his home. Growing up in North Canton, Lou spent much of his childhood in the woods and never lost his love of nature. Throughout his life, he preferred to walk along a creek or old railroad track than any city street. Lou’s appreciation for the quiet life did not impede upon his love for music, especially rock-n-roll.  A singer, songwriter and guitarist, he could captivate an audience with a microphone and tracks by Michael Stanley, Neil Diamond, The Rolling Stones and others. His favorite song of all was anything he sang alongside his daughter, Nicole, who he closely shared his love of music. Much of Lou’s life work and passion was his business. He developed a drive for success as a teenager, learning early on how to leverage his ability to fulfill the needs of others. His biggest win in business was the founding of DiStefano Insurance in Canal Fulton with his father, Clay, in 1979. The success of DiStefano Insurance was fueled by Lou’s tenacious work ethic and selfless ability to always put the needs of his clients and employees above his own. For 40 years, Lou led the agency to great success as a premier insurance provider with four locations in Stark and surrounding counties and nearly 100 affiliate agency partners throughout Ohio. His greatest pride of all was his wife, Brenda of 31 years and his family, many of whom have been involved in and will continue to lead the DiStefano family business into the future. He is survived by his wife Brenda, daughter Nicole (Denver) Kaylor, step-daughter Kim (David) McClaskey and step-son Steve (Susan) Hopkins, grandsons Wyatt, Jack, Brody and Ben, and brother Michael DiStefano. Preceded in death by Clayton and Marilyn DiStefano. Calling hours will be held on May 26th from 9am to 11am at Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home 624 Cherry St. E. (Rt. 93) in Canal Fulton.  A memorial service will be held the same day at 3pm at Shady Hollow Country Club, 4865 Wales Ave NW in Massillon followed by a gathering of all in celebration of a life well lived.

The family is requesting donations be sent in Lou’s memory to:
Rails-to-trails: https://www.railstotrails.org/support-us/ or
Stark Parks: https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/FriendsofStarkParks_1/paytribute.html in lieu of flowers.

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