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Dominic "Chig-Eyed" Zinno, age 96 of Steubenville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, leaving behind a long lifetime of stories, laughter, and resilience.
He was born on July 6, 1930 in Steubenville, the son of Antonio and Beatrice D'Albenzio Zinno. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Alfred "Al" Zinno.
In 1957, Dominic married Shirley Ann Pierro. Together they built a family and shared nearly 69 years together. In addition to Shirley, he is survived by his sons and their wives: Rock (Amy) Zinno and Michael (Tamara) Zinno; grandchildren Natalie (Richie) Harris, Isabella Zinno, and Joseph Zinno; step-granddaughter Alicia Ziarko (Terry Miranda); great-grand children Skylar Harris and Chelsey Harris, and step-great-grand daughter Leah Miranda. He is also survived by sister-in-law Shirley Bryan Pierro, and nephews and nieces Rene Zinno Miller and Doug Zinno, Lynda Pierro Piergallini, Anthony Pierro, and Joe Pierro, David Riccardi, and many great- nephews and great- nieces.
In addition to his parents and brother, Dominic was preceded by daughter-in-law Marijane McGinnis Zinno, sisters-in-law Mary Pierro Riccardi and Carmela Zinno, brothers-in-law Ralph Pierro and Joseph Riccardi, and niece Cathie Riccardi Springob.
Raised in Steubenville in the Italian neighborhood of Linden and Railroad Avenues, Dominic attended Grant School and Steubenville High School. He earned the nickname of "Chig-Eyed" due to his poor eyesightderived from an Italian expression meaning "blind". He played football, basketball, and was a boxer, becoming especially well known on the football field for a signature play: "T15 to the right and cut," where he was said to be unstoppable--even without his glasses. In the boxing ring, he was not afraid to fight anyone despite advice from his trainer George DiAlbert.
After graduating from Big Red High School in 1949, Dominic journeyed to Wake Forest University to work out with the football team. After realizing he would have to study, he returned home. He then became known for spending time with an "older" crowd in Steubenville.
Dominic served his country during the Korean War. Though trained as a cook, he often volunteered for other duties. He shared many stories from his time in the service -- some humorous, others deeply moving--including tales of boot camp pranks, the nighttime flights of "Bed Check Charlie," a "Dear John" letter, and his time spent in the hospital for non-war activities. His experiences during the war stayed with him throughout his life.
Following his military service, Dominic went into business with his close friend Pete Ferrise, operating a truck stop in Stratton. His stories are filled with colorful memories--pinball machines, cooking, a dog, and long nights keeping a watchful eye over the property.
He built a long career at Wheeling- Pittsburgh Steel, where he worked for 42 years at the pickler, until his retirement in 1991. During union strikes, he and Pete spent time in Newport, Kentucky, working as gambling "shields" for Tito Carinci, adding yet another chapter to his eventful life.
Dominic will also be remembered for his love of music, especially playing the accordion and singing his renditions of Jimmy Durante's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World". Those two songs have brought countless times of joy to his family and friends.
In addition, he enjoyed golfing. The Belleview Men's Club was his hobby for many years. The Men's Club and Twines were places where many memories were made among his friends. While not a long hitter as a golfer, he was known as "The Blade" for his skillful putting. He was also a member of the American Legion and Theta Chi Alpha.
He leaves behind many cherished friendships, particularly within the Spot Bar family, where he spent time bartending, making his well-loved sausage sandwiches, sitting around the liar's club table, sharing stories, and enjoying music.
Above all, "Chig-Eyed" will be remembered for his humor, toughness, accordion playing, singing, and zest for life. His stories and advice for his fellow man will be remembered for a long-time.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Country Club Manor and Valley Hospice for their compassionate care these last two weeks. They would also like to thank his SVRTA driver Anthony Dustolfo for his kind attention to Dominic when transporting him to and from The Spot Bar.
Calling hours will be held Sunday from 1-3 p.m. at Mosti Funeral Home, Sunset Chapel, 4435 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville. A funeral liturgy with Mass will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Valley Hospice, 10686 State Route 150, Rayland, Ohio 43943.
Offer condolences, www.mostifuneralhome.com