Allan Gargasz, 78, Known for His Unwavering Generosity

A man known for his unwavering generosity and a perpetually open door, Al leaves behind a legacy defined by joy, hard work, and a profound commitment to his community and family.

Born and raised in Lorain, Al was a proud 1965 graduate of Admiral King High School. His sense of duty led him to serve his country, and he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in August of 1966.

Al dedicated his professional life to working with his hands and solving problems. He spent nearly 25 years as a skilled machinist at the former American Crucible Products Corporation. While he briefly held a management role as a programmer, his heart belonged to the shop floor, where he thrived as a “Production Man” He continued his hands-on career at Precision Mold & Pattern Company for nearly a decade. Even in semi-retirement, he embodied his nickname “Mr. Helpful;” assisting others at Willow Hardware, The Rental, and Handy Rents, always ready with advice for home repairs.

A true family man, Al’s life with his wife Darlyene was a vibrant tapestry of shared passions and community engagement. Together, they successfully ran the Riverbend Party Center in Lorain from 1991 to 1995, a venture that echoed his father’s management of the Knights of St. John in the 1950s. Al was the undisputed life of any gathering, famous for winning prizes for dancing “the Twist” and leading a strong polka.

His home was a hub of warmth and hospitality, featuring an inground pool with a slide and diving board operated with an open-door policy that welcomed generations of neighborhood children. Al was the neighbor everyone relied on, clearing sidewalks and driveways, offering a safe place to stay, a meal, a loan, or a hand with car issues.

Al’s zest for life extended to numerous hobbies—boating, camping, and snowmobiling—all centered around quality time with family. He was a dedicated member of several Lorain social clubs, including the IAV, PACC, and Slovak Home. Later in life, he continued spreading happiness by performing with the “Singing Seniors” bringing music and joy to nursing home residents across Lorain County. He was also a regular, proud blood donor until he was no longer able, always sporting his donor tee shirts.

Al is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Darlyene Gargasz (nee Koler), whose life was inextricably linked to his generous spirit. He is also survived by his devoted children and grandchildren: Oldest son, Bruce Gargasz (wife Deidre), and their children Andrea, Bryan, Dylan (fiancé Kirstynn), and Tyler; Oldest daughter, Cynthia Simo (husband Cory), and their children Richard “Tony” and Josilyn; Youngest daughter, Sherry Ridner (husband David), and their children Kayce and Layla. Beyond his immediate family, Al and Darlyene touched the lives of more than 20 children over the years as licensed foster parents with Lorain County Children Services.
Al was preceded in death by an infant brother, Gerald; his parents, George J. and Elizabeth (Nee Beko) Gargasz; and his brother, George G. Gargasz.

Viewing and the Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, December 19th, at Nativity of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, located at 418 West 15th Street in Lorain. Mourners may pay their
respects starting at 11 a.m., with the Mass to follow at noon. The Rev. Craig Hovanec, pastor, will preside. Cremation and eventual interment will follow at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel, 3224 Broadway, Lorain. The family welcomes online condolences at www.gluvnashimohromada.com.

Memorial contributions can be made to either the Friendship Animal Protective League or Wounded Warriors.

Al’s memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to feel the embrace of his boundless generosity and joy.