Thaddeus Anthony Zelek

THADDEUS ANTHONY ZELEK, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, January 23, 2019. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Helen Zelek.

Ted was a hardworking and kind person who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. A special place for Ted and his family was Fort Myers, where he and his wife spent their winters.

Ted was born in Cleveland, the youngest child of Polish immigrants Stanley and Mary Zelek. While attending Lincoln High School, Ted met Helen, and the two were inseparable until her death.  Ted earned a basketball scholarship to John Carroll University, he served as a Lieutenant in the Army, took a job at Braden Sutphin Ink Company and slowly worked his way up the ladder to salesman and eventually became CEO.  As the leader of the company, he believed he should get to know all of his employees as they all contributed to its success.

Ted and Helen enjoyed traveling and took many trips together. He also enjoyed gardening and was proud of his wild flower garden and nicely manicured lawn.  He was an avid Cleveland sports fan and was happy to see the Cavaliers win a championship during his lifetime.

Ted was the beloved husband of the late Helen (nee Urban); loving father of Kathleen Zelek, Marianne Kiewel and the late Edwin “Eddie” Zelek; father-in-law of Gary Thompson and Jim Kiewel; dear “poppi” of Kelley (Matt), Stephanie (Erik), Timothy (Tracy), Brian, Lindsay (Paul), Donald, Thaddeus “T.J.” (Lindsay) and Lucas; great-grandfather of Addison and Katherine; brother of Irene Miller and the late Edwin. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mia Sutphin Foundation, 9095 Furrow Ave., Ellicott City, MD 21042.

Mass of Christian Burial at St. Basil the Great Church, 8700 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville, Monday, January 28, 2019 at 11 a.m. (please meet at church). Private interment Holy Cross Cemetery.  Friends received at RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME, 5762 PEARL RD. (AT SNOW RD.), SUNDAY 2-5 P.M.