Louis Gergely Jr

Louis Gergely, Jr., passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, in Littleton, Colorado, at the age of 88. He was born on December 13, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Louis Gergely, Sr., and Gizella (née Szaniszlo) Gergely. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Dorothy Swearingen.

He is survived by his daughter, Julie Marie Gergely Eldredge (Bryan), and his son, Stephen Louis Gergely (Laura). He was a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren—Talisha Eldredge, Jorie Malm, Rachel Atchison, Nicholas Gergely, and Liliana Gergely—and a proud great-grandfather to eight great-grandchildren.

Louis lived a life defined by service, humor, and a deep love of family. He graduated from Pasadena High School in Pasadena, Texas, where he was a standout offensive lineman, earning the nickname “Iron Head” for his toughness on the field. His talent and determination led to a football scholarship at the University of Houston.

He went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years (1955–1976), during which he was stationed across the world, including in Texas, Alabama, Maine, Morocco, Turkey, Michigan, Germany, Colorado, Ohio, and Vietnam. His dedication to duty and natural leadership skills were recognized with several commendations, most notably the Bronze Star in 1971 for his service in Vietnam.

In 1976, Louis began a second career with the State of Ohio’s Division of Safety and Hygiene where he served as Superintendent until 1996. He was an inspirational leader with a special ability to help others recognize the value of their contributions and maximize their potential. After retirement in 1996, he moved to Goodyear, Arizona, where he settled off the fifth fairway of the Palm Valley Golf Course to enjoy his passion for golf. He became a golf marshal there where he made many lasting friendships.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Louis was an avid Ohio State fan. He followed Buckeye athletics with the precision of a military operation—game days were sacred, and interruptions were a punishable offense. He was an usher at Ohio Stadium for nearly 20 years and traveled frequently with his family to support the team. In Arizona, he combined his love for sports and camaraderie by working in the Seattle Mariners Spring Training Clubhouse for five years.

Above all, Louis was a family man. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, showering them with love, relentless teasing, and an endless supply of sweets—especially cheesecake, Nutty Bars, and his all-time favorite, ice cream. He created lasting memories by taking the grandkids on road trips and hosting them at his home. They recall that he loved ESPN, Turner Classic Movies and “the greatest film ever made,” Casablanca.

Lou’s quick wit and sense of humor remained with him until the very end, sharing laughter and affection with those around him. His was a life well lived, and those who knew him are all the better for it. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. We love him and miss him dearly. A celebration of Louis’ life will be held in Goodyear, AZ at a later date.