Mario "Moe" Defino

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mario “Moe” Defino, who found joy in the roar of engines and the thrill of the track. For the past 51 days, he was hospitalized due to an illness that he faced with quiet strength and resilience, surrounded by the care and love of those closest to him. Moe will be most remembered for his lifelong love of dirt track racing. Whether watching races, working on race-cars, working at a racetrack, or simply talking about his passion for racing, his memory will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and all who shared his passion.

Over the past several years, Moe faced many illnesses and injuries that he was able to overcome with the love and support of Valinda Newman. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dominic and Joan Defino, as well as 2 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his sons Dominic Defino and wife Andrea, and Matt Defino and wife Leanne, and their 2 children, Ava and David. He gained a whole family when he moved to West Virginia that he called his own, including multiple kids, grandkids , and great grandkids who loved their “Pop Pop” and his very best friend, Ryden. He is also survived by multiple friends he made over the years in the racetrack community.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”. Though Moe has crossed the finish line of this life, his spirit continues to race on in the lives he touched. Moe’s final wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Thank you to everyone for your kind words and support through this difficult time.

.