FREDERICK ISADORE KOTECKI

Frederick "Fred" I. Kotecki, age 81, of Medina, passed away on October 26, 2019. He was born in Cleveland, on April 4, 1938, to the late Joseph and Genevieve (nee Leszczynski) Kotecki. He was the youngest of six siblings: Adeline (Hank) Granda, Eugene, Genevieve (Raymond) Stryjek, Helen (Steve) Nemeth), and Joseph (Alice).

Fred will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 38 years, Donna (nee Albright), and their daughter, Brittani. Fred's children also include, Deborah (Mike) Hess, Kimberly (Frank) Ludwig, Frederick J., Kristan (Greg) Kaszei. Fred will be missed by many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a valuable collection of wonderful friends and work associates. Thanks to all of them for fulfilling his life!

Fred's involvement in the automotive industry dates back to the mid 1950's, when he went to work for Fleishman Chrysler/Plymouth in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. For 35 years Fred served various automobile dealerships as their Service Director within the Akron, Cleveland, and Medina areas. Crestmont Cadillac, Cal Wible of Medina, and Central Cadillac are among those he managed. Fred was driven by his love of the automobile, and the importance it played in people's lives. In 1990, he embarked on a new journey. Still keeping automobiles as his primary focus, he began to manage his own collision center, which he continued for 12 years, before being introduced to a very short-term, full retirement. He re-entered the work force, once again in 2004, and began a new, but exciting career with Medina County Transit System. Fred began as a driver and, after a few years, was promoted to road supervisor, where he was responsible for all driver training initiatives, and he supervised the transit drivers. In 2015, he answered the call of yet another endeavor, to become a driver for the Society for the Handicapped of Medina County, wherein he simply fell in love with all of his passengers! Fred often shared many wonderful stories and experiences from this job, and had a genuine interest and concern for his very precious cargo. In 2016 Fred finally welcomed full retirement, but insisted on sharing his many happy, memorable moments throughout his journey. Fred will be remembered for his infectious sense of humor, and the ability to bring a smile into just about everyone's life that he touched. SHINE ON, our dear husband, dad, grandpa, uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, son-in-law, and friend!

Friends may join the family for a Celebration of Fred's Life on Saturday, November 2, 2019, from 3:00PM to 5:00PM at Carlson Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 3477 Medina Road, Medina, OH 44256. A Memorial Service will follow at 5:00PM, with Fr. Anthony Sejba officiating.