It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Timothy J. Mainello, age 50, of Concord Township, who departed this life on July 11, 2025. Born on April 14, 1975 in Painesville, Ohio, Tim lived a life rooted in service, learning, leadership, and love.
Tim was the beloved son of Shirley and James Mainello, a man who brought pride and joy to his family with every step of his journey. He was not only a devoted son but also a loyal friend, respected educator, and impactful coach — admired by students, colleagues, athletes, and community members alike.
A Life of Purpose and Dedication
Tim’s professional life was a powerful testament to his unwavering dedication to education and youth development. A passionate and brilliant teacher at Madison High School, Tim taught AP Statistics, AP Biology, and various math classes, inspiring a generation of students with both his knowledge and his genuine care.
Prior to his work at Madison, he served as both a teacher and head football coach at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin, where he began building the reputation as someone who shaped lives, not just lesson plans.
Tim was much more than a classroom teacher. He was an exceptional mentor and tutor, particularly in preparing students for the ACT — helping many unlock college opportunities that might otherwise have seemed out of reach. He championed not only academic success but also the culture and climate of the school. As an active member of the Building Leadership Team and the MEA negotiating team, Tim worked tirelessly to improve the educational environment for both staff and students. He approached every meeting, practice, and classroom with the same conviction: that education matters, and people matter more.
Those who worked with him knew him as steadfast, principled, compassionate, and deeply committed to doing what was right — even when it was difficult.
A Legacy of Learning and Faith
Tim’s journey in education began at St. Gabriel Elementary School, followed by high school at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin. He went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from John Carroll University, a place that nurtured his love of learning and prepared him for the meaningful work he would go on to do.
His life’s path was marked by integrity, faith, and humility — a quiet strength that resonated with all who knew him.
Family and Community
Tim’s passing leaves a tremendous void in the lives of those who loved him. He is survived by his loving parents, Shirley and James Mainello; his dear aunts Diana (Fred) Bird, Paula Kaseman, and Beverly (Bob) Merkel; and his many cousins, who were like siblings to him.
His family, former students, and colleagues are now left with the echo of his voice, the warmth of his encouragement, and the lessons he taught — both inside and outside the classroom.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date. The family wishes to allow time for all who loved Tim — near and far — to gather and honor his memory in the way he would have wanted: with dignity, gratitude, and unity.
Continuing the Legacy
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund is being established in Tim’s name, to honor his lifelong dedication to student success. It will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who gave so much of himself to others and believed deeply in the potential of every young mind.
Final Reflections
Tim Mainello wasn’t just a teacher — he was a life-changer. He challenged students to think critically, live ethically, and believe in themselves. He brought calm to chaos, solutions to problems, and compassion to every role he took on. His legacy will live on in every student he inspired, every colleague he encouraged, and every life he quietly lifted up along the way.
Rest in peace, Tim. You taught, you led, you gave, and you loved — and you will never be forgotten.
Arrangements entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Painesville.
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