Frank Szendrey

Frank Szendrey passed away peacefully Monday, September 1, 2025 at 93. He was a devoted husband, and beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle. Born in Gönc, Hungary, Frank was a proud Hungarian who carried his heritage close to his heart. In 1957, he fled communism and oppression in his homeland and emigrated to the United States in pursuit of freedom and opportunity. He remained deeply connected to his culture through Cleveland's Hungarian community, especially the Hungarian Scouting organizations in which all of his children participated. A devout Catholic, Frank was a faithful member of St. Mary and St. Emeric Catholic Churches. His spiritual life was rich and active, and he found purpose in service through the Holy Name Society and the Knights of Columbus. He gave generously of his time and energy to his faith and parish community. Above all, Frank was a family man. In 1961, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth, with whom he shared 40 wonderful years of marriage. In 1971, they moved to Avon, Ohio, where they raised their seven children. Frank cherished fatherhood and loved tending his garden. He took pleasure in playing cards, telling stories, and sharing laughter around the table. His happiest moments were always those spent surrounded by family, who will miss his unique sense of humor. He had a long career with Ford Motor Company. A member of UAW Local 2000, he remained active for several years as a retiree. Frank will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Hungarian Friends of Scouting, P.O. Box 6783, Cleveland, Ohio 44101. He is survived by his children, John (Marilyn), Frank (Kirsten), Pete (Margaret), Dan (Julie), Tom Szendrey and Julie (Anton) Zonneveld; grandchildren, Stephanie (Leland) Jernigan, Victoria Szendrey, Rachel Szendrey, Emily Szendrey, Francis Szendrey, Stephen Szendrey, Mary (James) Wilson, Susan Szendrey, Anne (John) McClellan, Jacob (Ally) Szendrey, Andrew Szendrey, Abigail Szendrey, Grace Zonneveld, Sean Zonneveld and Katie Zonneveld; and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife. Elizabeth Szendrey (nee Kalmar); son, Paul Szendrey; and 8 siblings in Hungary. The family will receive friends Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Chambers Funeral Home, 29150 Lorain Rd. North Olmsted. A 12 noon Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 5, 2025 at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2680 Stoney Ridge Rd., Avon followed by interment at St. Mary's Cemetery, Avon. MISENCIK FUNERAL HOME, Avon is in charge of arrangements.