STANLEY R. ZAKRAJSEK age 93, beloved husband for 61 years of the late Joanne (nee Hocevar); loving father of Stanley F. (Gayle Lutch), Larry (deceased), Arlene Leuzzi (husband Ken), Janene Zakrajsek and Mary Joy Lynch (husband Thomas); devoted grandfather of Michael (wife Megan) and Amanda Zakrajsek, Nicholas (fiancé Emma Bates), David, and Matthew Leuzzi (wife Hailey) and great-grandfather of Nolan, Mya and Layla; cherished son of the late Andrew and Frances (nee Pirnat); dearest brother of the late Frances Spech (husband Anthony, deceased) and Andrew; dear uncle and great-uncle of many. U.S. Army Korean Conflict Veteran.
Stanley was born on October 24, 1929, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a lifelong resident of Euclid. He was a member of St. Christine Catholic Church before their closing and the Independent Veteran’s Association. Stanley graduated from Cathedral Latin High School and worked as an accounting clerk for Addressograph Multigraph. Trading office work for small business, together with his wife Joanne, they owned and operated Zak’s Bar for several years, after which time opting to sell the business, Stanley took to the road. He had a passion for driving and the freedom of the open road. Working first as a chauffeur for Central Cadillac, and then various courier and (taxi) cab driver positions, he absolutely loved being behind-the-wheel.
Stanley enjoyed fishing, hunting, horse racing, football, billiards… and the challenge of a really good puzzle. He could frequently be found socializing at Slovenian Society Home and the SNPJ Farm or listening to Slovenian polkas and waltzes. Many would describe him as a sociable, friendly, and patient person who was very generous in giving. Stanley passed away on August 30, 2023. He will be dearly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Stanley to Hospice of the Western Reserve, P.O. Box 72101, Cleveland, OH 44192 or CLICK HERE. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at St. Vitus Catholic Church, 6019 Lausche Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 at 11 AM. Burial following with Military Honors at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Stanley at THE ZEVNIK-COSIC FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) TUESDAY 3 – 7 PM.
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Bob & Nancy Kadar
Very sorry on the passing of your father. He was an active gentleman and had full life. Condolences to the family.
Mark Tercek
Condolences to Stanley F,and family
Bill and Lovey Cran
We are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He had a very busy and full life. Our Deepest Sympathy to you and your family.
Sharon Divincenzo
Dear Stan and Gayle so sorry to hear about Stan’s father You’re in our prayers
Janet Gering
Dear Stan and family,
We are sending you healing prayers and wish that you remember your Dad in all the little signs that he leaves for you.
Skip and Janet, Brandon, Christopher and Shannon
Pat Palmieri
Stan, deepest condolences from Pat and Carol Palmieri. Just an FYI, your mom and Carol have the same maiden name. Hope to see you on the 3rd Thursday.
Mike s.
Stan ,Arlene,Ken, and Janine , my deepest condolences to all of you . Was so great growing up on Nicholas with all of you . I’d often see your father and talk to him at the horse track he would often tell me which horse he liked , always so kind . Your father and mother and brother will all be at the gates of heaven to welcome all of us some day !
Kathy Mercuri
Dear Stan, Arlene, and Janene,
So very sorry to learn of Uncle Stan’s passing. I just read Janene’s post on FB. He and your Mother were delightful people. My deepest sympathy,
Kathy Mercuri