Richard E. Fondessy
July 13, 1929 - February 14, 2017
After a short illness, Richard E. Fondessy, 87 years old, of Naples, Florida and Curtice, Ohio, entered Into eternal peace on February 14, 2017 in Naples, Florida.
He was born in Clay Center, Ohio to Edna and Walter Fondessy on July 13, 1929. Rich proudly served his country in the Army during the Korean War and was an active member of the VFW and the American Legion, Post 0537 for 46 years.
He, along with his brothers, Robert and Roland, owned and operated the former Fondessy Enterprises and Jeffers Crane Service. Richard was a long time member of the AARP, Local 8 Electrical Union, FMCA, The Wolves Club, and ELKS Association. In addition to these organizations, he was also a former member of the Zenobia Shrine.
In his younger years he was not only a star football and track athlete at Clay high School, but was a decorated race car driver for many years in the 50's and won the Toledo area championship in 1951 and 1952. He loved fishing and boating and spent many a day on Lake Erie. For the last 30 years he, and his wife Brenda spent their winters either in Florida or roaming the United States in their motor home.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Fondessy and much loved pet, Winnie.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 26 years, Brenda, brother Roland (Pat) Fondessy, and daughter Dianne (Ron) Swartz, Mark and Ricky Fondessy. Step children Joe (Jennifer) Kiss and Doreen (Doug) Cousino. He was loved and cherished by his grandchildren: Michael, Christopher, and Carly Calevro, Joey, Joshua, and Jonah Kiss and Joshua Swartz. He leaves behind many friends and was loved by all that knew him. He will be sadly missed and happily remembered by all.