Alfred “Al” Smith Blazek Sr, age 96, ended his earthly pilgrimage on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Alfred was born in Fairmont, W.Va. to Joseph & Mary (Semancik) Blazek as the 6th of 8 children. He married his high school sweetheart Rita at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Fairmont on October 7, 1950. Soon after, Rita & Alfred moved to the greater Cleveland, Ohio area where they raised their nine children: Dr. Mark (Rebecca), Dr. Matthew (Jeanne), Luke (Patricia), John (Mary Louise), Damian (Karen), Rita (David) Stephens, Jerome (Debbie-deceased), Monica (Paul) Johanni & Alfred Jr. (Susan). Al is also survived by his loving wife Rita, 39 grandchildren, 57 great-grandchildren and countless friends & extended family.
Al’s many accomplishments include a 38 year career as a tool & die expert at Ford Motor Company in Brook Park, Ohio and distinguished service as a United States Marine, enlisting when he was 17 and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mel's Catholic Church, 14436 Triskett Road in Cleveland, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 10am.
Viewing will be available prior to Mass at 9am with burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Brook Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mel's Church.
