Obituaries

Louis “Lou” John Accettolo

LOUIS “LOU” JOHN ACCETTOLO, 91, of Follansbee, WV, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Golden Oaks. Lou was born on February 4, 1934, in Follansbee, WV, to the late Tony Shoto and Sophia (Hyest) Accettolo. He is preceded in death by his sister, Rose Marguerite (Accettolo) Stone, and her husband, Tony Stone, as well as his brother, Anthony Joseph Shoto. Lou graduated from Follansbee High School in 1952 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Business from West Liberty State College in 1957. It was there, in the library, that he met his future wife, Patricia. Lou proudly served in the Army after World War II, stationed in Germany. He retired from Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel Corporation after working over 30 years in the business office. Hard-working and generous, Lou lived a life guided by a strong moral compass and desire to help others. With humility, he quietly “did good” for everyone whether he truly met them in person or not. Whether it was offering a ride to the doctor, lending a hand with repairs or helping with community projects, Lou was always there for those in need. He also devoted countless hours to supporting his wife, Patricia, in her work with her first-grade students, often going above and beyond—whether by transporting a keyboard, providing school supplies or assisting her in presenting music activities for various organizations. Lou took great pride in his home and meticulously cared for his beautiful yard. With a mix of engineering skill and ingenuity, he was able to design and build furniture, tools, and anything that served a practical purpose. A devout Catholic, Louis was a longtime member of St. Anthony’s Church. Lou is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Ruth (Frinkley) Accettolo; his two daughters, Linda (Brent) Hymel of Westwego, LA, and Diane Schaefer (Thomas Hart Anderson IV) of Sarasota, FL; two grandchildren, John Ruthem, of Westwego, LA and Krystina Schaefer, of Columbus, OH; one great-granddaughter, Nicole Ruthem; and a nephew, Tony J. (Jennifer) Stone III. Visitation was held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Mullenbach Funeral Home, Follansbee. A Catholic Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Follansbee, with Rev. Father Gerald Muoka as celebrant. A Vigil was also held on Wednesday at the funeral home. Interment followed with military honors in Oak Grove Cemetery, Follansbee.