Gabriel Peter Paul Kezdi
Gabriel Peter Paul Kezdi, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 7, 2026, in Chardon, Ohio.
Born on June 29, 1945, in Germany, to Gabor and Margit Kezdi (née Szakolzay), Gabriel immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of 5. He first lived in California, moving to Mansfield, Ohio, and eventually settled in the Buckeye neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio.
Gabriel became engaged to the love of his life, Lenore “Lee” Kezdi, on Christmas Day in 1965, and the couple married in 1969. Having known each other since Lee was 15 years old, they shared a devoted marriage of 57 years filled with love, laughter and unwavering partnership.
Together, Gabriel and Lee made their home in Willowick, Ohio, for 36 years before relocating to Munson Township, Ohio, where Gabriel proudly served as a member of the Munson Township Board of Zoning Appeals.
A dedicated family man, Gabriel loved taking his family on trips and adventures, creating cherished memories along the way.
He enjoyed trying new restaurants each week and developed a passion and talent for cooking as a result. Also a DIY type of guy, he owned about every tool ever made. He always had the tool for the job.
A gifted businessman with a natural talent for sales, Gabriel was a driven entrepreneur throughout his life. He owned an insurance company before later founding Metro Autoglass Centers. His remarkable work ethic and determination earned him the respect of many.
Gabriel was also known for his extraordinary memory. He could recall dates and events from more than 50 years earlier with astonishing detail. Family and friends often marveled as he would walk into a restaurant and say, “The last time I ate here was June 12, 1982, with John Smith,” before sharing stories from that very day. His storytelling, warmth and sharp mind will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gabor and Margit Kezdi; and sister, Valerie Suppel.
Gabriel is survived by his beloved wife, Lee Kezdi; his daughter, Kimberly (Michael Johnson) Rizk; his son, Kendall (Deidre) Kezdi; and his cherished grandchildren, Brandon Rizk, Kevin Rizk, and Sophia Kezdi.
A visitation for friends and family will be held Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4-8 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon.
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11 a.m., at St. Lucy Parish, 16280 East High St., Middlefield, Ohio. Interment will follow at Fowlers Mill Cemetery, 12399 Fowlers Mill Road, Munson Township.
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
