Obituaries

Donald “Donny” Carmine Cartonio Jr., 57 years of age, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026 in Campbell County, KY of complications from dementia.

Donny was born in Portland, Maine on January 21, 1969 to the late Donald Cartonio Sr. and Catherine (Caiazzo) Cartonio. He was raised in Portland, attended Portland Schools and played football for Deering High School.

Donny was an outdoorsman who loved spending time in the woods. Some of his best memories were his hunting trips up north to the family camp with his father and cousins Joe, Pat, and Ed. Those trips provided endless stories that were shared again and again at family gatherings for years to come. Donny had a gift for storytelling. Whether he was recounting a hunting trip, sharing a funny memory, or retelling an adventure (of which he had many), he could bring people right back to the moment. His stories were often filled with humor, colorful details, and animated expressions that would have everyone around him laughing. Family and friends knew that whenever Donny started telling a story, it was worth listening to.

Donny worked in the trades throughout his life, including construction and masonry, and was especially talented in hardscape work. Through his craftsmanship, he created many beautiful patios and walkways. He took great pride in contributing to many notable projects in Campbell County, including work on the Campbell County Courthouse and the renovation of many homes in the Newport Historic District.

Donny is predeceased by his father, Donald Cartonio Sr.

Surviving are his mother, Catherine Cartonio; Jen Forwood – his partner of over 20 years, and their son, Kaden Cartonio; his daughter, Sophia Cartonio: his sisters, Sabrina Vail and her husband Robert, and Nancy Cartonio and her fiancé Jean-Paul; and several nieces and nephews, including his goddaughter, Antonia Vail, Clyde (Eddie) Cartonio and his fiancé Alex and their daughter Carmela, Olivia Vail, and Nick Cartonio.

There are no services scheduled at this time.