Paul Mark Pestello

Paul Mark Pestello

May 1, 1958 – November 22, 2023

We lost our precious brother, uncle, and nephew Paul in a fatal car crash on November 22.  

Born to the late Florence (nee Rinicella) and Fred Pestello and raised in Shaker Heights, OH,

Paul was a treasured younger brother to Fred Pestello (Fran), Stephanie Pestello-Sharf, and

Joe Pestello (Kay).  He was a beloved uncle to Vitina (Marley), Freddie, Andrew (Kylie), Emily,

and Austin (Kaylee), and great uncle to Flora.  Among his good friends and dear neighbors,

he was particularly fond of his former sister-in-law, Susan, to whom he felt like a brother.  

Finally, he was a devoted nephew to his late Aunts Marie and Stephanie, and their sisters

Aunt Norma and Linda Rinicella.  He cared for Norma and Linda’s home, which welcomed

generations of our family, and he ensured their health and wellbeing.  

A sensitive man propelled by his passions, forged his own path in life.  He had a discerning eye for

modern art and design, held a strong sense of justice, and displayed boundless compassion.  

His early love of cars led him to join his father in the auto leasing business, where he enjoyed

considerable success.  In Paul’s latter years, he became a staunch advocate of local dog rescues, caring for,

fostering, placing, and adopting literally hundreds of dogs over the years.  Recipient of the Unsung Hero Award

from the City of South Euclid’s Humane Society, one of his proudest accomplishments in this area was working with the

Animal Protective League to prosecute a case of animal cruelty involving several abused dogs. 

He was known among his many friends and neighbors for his generous assistance with their various challenges,

home projects, and animal health issues.  

Services at this time will be private.  An open invitation celebration of Paul’s life will be planned

for in the early summer.  The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and concern from Paul’s

neighbors and friends.  In lieu of flowers we request donations be made to the South Euclid Humane Society. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul Mark Pestello, please visit our floral store.