Concepcion G. Finotello

Concepcion G. Finotello, 69, of Kent, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Surrounded by her loved ones, she faced her final moments with the same grace and strength that defined her life. Her journey was a testament to resilience, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born on May 10, 1956, in Mexico City, Mexico, to the late Bernardo and Maruja (Jiménez) Rodriguez, Concepcion began her career as a primary school teacher in her hometown. In 1979, she moved to Buffalo, New York, later settling in State College, Pennsylvania, and finally making Kent, Ohio, her home in 1988.

Concepcion devoted herself to raising her children, remaining a stay-at-home mother throughout their school years. Her steadfast dedication to their education and well-being laid the foundation for their successes. Once her children were grown, she returned to her passion for teaching—first offering Spanish lessons to local homeschoolers and later serving as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher for K–12 students in the Kent City School District. Over her 17-year career, she earned the admiration of students and colleagues alike, leaving a legacy as a compassionate and gifted educator.

Fluent in Spanish, Italian and English, Concepcion was a true citizen of the world. Her multilingualism enriched her teaching, her friendships, and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

An accomplished artist, Concepcion found joy in watercolor, acrylic painting, diamond art, and was known for her doodles. She was an active member and past president of the Kent State University Women’s Club, and a proud member of the Chestnut Society. She also cherished her time with the Quilting and Stitchery groups, the University Women’s Club, the Walls Book Clubs, and the International Latinas Club of Hudson. She shared her passion for arts with the Kent and Ravenna Ladies. Her creativity and warmth enriched every community she joined.

Above all, Concepcion was known for her kindness, generosity, and deep devotion to her family. As “Abuela,” she shared a special bond with her grandson, Jacob. Together, they discovered a love for pickleball (both watching videos for skill development), drawing, scrapbooking, and playful games of hide-and-seek—memories that will be treasured forever. Abuela and Jacob continued these activities until her physical limitations prevented from continuing to do so.

The passing of Concepcion has left behind a profound void, and her family has come together to honor her memory. Concepcion is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 50 years, Daniele Finotello; her children, Alexia Finotello and Marco Finotello; and her cherished grandson, Jacob Peterson. She also leaves behind her siblings, Bernardo, Rafael, and Maria Luisa. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Concepcion’s legacy lived on in the hearts of those who knew her. Her presence and love were cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 313 North Depeyster Street, Kent, Ohio, with Rev. Fr. William Wainio officiating. Cremation will follow at Bissler & Sons Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Concepcion’s name to support pancreatic cancer research—an enduring tribute to her strength and a gift of hope to others facing the same battle.

Donations may be made to, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center http://www.uhgiving.org or University Hospitals Institutional Relations and Development P.O. Box 94554 Cleveland, Ohio 44101-4554.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.