Boardman, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Donald ‘Pat’ Ungar, a distinguished Marine Corps veteran and law enforcement officer, passed away at the age of 79. Surrounded by family, his legacy includes military honors and community service efforts. Known for his dedication to public safety, Ungar served in various law enforcement roles and volunteered at his local church. His impact on the community will be remembered fondly by family and friends.
Boardman – Donald “Pat” Ungar, a respected Marine Corps veteran and law enforcement officer, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on September 30, 2025, at his residence in Boardman. His beloved wife, Ivana Luka-Ungar, was by his side during his final moments.
Pat Ungar was born on August 19, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the son of the late Alfred Paul Ungar and Dorothy M. McDonald. He graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1964 before enlisting in the Marine Corps. Ungar achieved the esteemed rank of first sergeant and was recognized for his exceptional service with the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and several other honors.
After his military service, Pat began his career in law enforcement with the Port Royal Police Department in Beaufort, South Carolina. He later moved to Ohio, where he served at the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department in Youngstown. There, he held the position of director of security for Youngstown City Hall and Vector Security, demonstrating his commitment to public service and community safety.
Beyond his professional life, Pat was a devoted member of St. Dominic Church, where he was both a lector and a dedicated volunteer at the church’s soup kitchen. He had a wide array of interests that included shooting at the range, flying model airplanes, and traveling with his wife. Pat treasured family gatherings during holidays and enjoyed dining out with friends. He also loved playing dominoes on Friday nights and owned a motorcycle, affectionately named “Papa Smurf,” which he often rode with the Retread Cycle Motorcycle Club.
Pat is survived by his wife, Ivana Luka-Ungar, whom he married on July 7, 2007. He is also survived by his stepdaughters: Ashley (Matt) Lister of Asheville, North Carolina; Heather (Jim) Adams of Brandon, Mississippi; and Lori Luka-Wyrwas (Tony Wyrwas) of Avon. His stepson, Christopher (Jessica) Luka, resides in Reston, Virginia. His grandchildren include Brady Watson, Easton, Ruthie, and Ruby Adams. He will also be missed by special friends, Mickey and Kevin.
Pat was preceded in death by his brother, John Roy Ungar; his granddaughter, Emma Grace Watson; and special friends, Louie Amicarelli and Phil and Bev Goings.
Family and friends wishing to pay their respects may do so on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 9 to 9:50 a.m. at St. Dominic Church, located at 77 E. Lucius Ave., Youngstown. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m. on the same day, which will be celebrated by Rev. Frassati Davis, O.P. Military honors will follow the Mass, leading to a private burial at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, material tributes may be made to St. Dominic Church or Hospice House Compassus. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Nurse Tonya and Pastor Carson of Hospice House, as well as the Veterans Outreach for their invaluable support during this time. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, located at 4700 Market St., Boardman. For those wishing to express their condolences, they may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org.
FAQs
When did Donald “Pat” Ungar pass away?
Donald “Pat” Ungar passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025.
What was Donald “Pat” Ungar’s age at the time of his passing?
He was 79 years old.
Who was with him at the time of his passing?
His wife, Ivana Luka-Ungar, was by his side at the time of his passing.
Where was Donald “Pat” Ungar born?
He was born on August 19, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Which military rank did Donald “Pat” Ungar achieve?
Pat achieved the rank of first sergeant in the Marine Corps.
What awards did Donald “Pat” Ungar receive for his military service?
He was awarded the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and various other honors for his service.
Where did Donald “Pat” Ungar begin his law enforcement career?
His law enforcement career began at the Port Royal Police Department in Beaufort, South Carolina.
What was Donald “Pat” Ungar’s position at the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department?
He worked as the director of security for Youngstown City Hall and Vector Security.
How can individuals express their condolences to the family?
Individuals can express their condolences by visiting www.foxfuneralhome.org.
When is the public visitation scheduled?
Family and friends may call on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 9 to 9:50 a.m. at St. Dominic Church.
Is there a burial service planned for Donald “Pat” Ungar?
Yes, there will be a private burial at Calvary Cemetery following the Mass.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Donald “Pat” Ungar |
| Age | 79 |
| Date of Passing | September 30, 2025 |
| Military Rank | First Sergeant |
| Awards | Silver Star, two Bronze Stars |
| Law Enforcement Career Start | Port Royal Police Department, Beaufort, South Carolina |
| Survived By | wife Ivana Luka-Ungar and stepchildren |
| Visitation Date | October 11, 2025 |
| Place of Burial | Calvary Cemetery |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Vindicator: Donald “Pat” Ungar Obituary
- Wikipedia: United States Marine Corps
- The Vindicator: Donald “Pat” Ungar Tribute
- Google Search: Donald Ungar
- The Vindicator: Memorial for Donald Ungar
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Military Honors
- The Vindicator: Donald Ungar’s Life and Service
- Google News: Donald Ungar
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
