Kenneth Paul Lesko's Obituary
Kenneth Paul Lesko, 81, passed away on Thursday, January 11th, in Westlake, Ohio. He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, uncle, patriarch, and friend.
While serving his country in the U.S. Air Force, Ken was stationed in Japan, where he studied martial arts, and began a lifelong interest in art.
An art dealer for over fifty years, Ken traveled the country, exhibiting at venues in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis, and many places in between. He became a gallerist in 2003, when he opened Kenneth Paul Lesko Gallery, where he was the eponymous director for over twenty years, and built a legacy that continues as a family business.
A renowned expert in a variety of fields, Ken was instrumental in the establishment of the Italian Art Glass market in the U.S., gaining recognition throughout the U.S. and Europe. He aided in the research and identification of numerous designers and glassblowers, and helped to build some of the most important collections in the U.S., Europe, and Australia.
As much as Ken loved art, that love was eclipsed by his love for his family and friends. Those who knew him, will remember Ken for his intelligence and humor, his wit and charm, and his warmth and generosity.
Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Margaret; his brother, Charles (Therese); his son, Richard; and his son-in-law, Joe. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole (nee Balint), his daughter, Richelle (Joe), his sons, Ron (Iliada) and Ross; and his grandchildren, Dylan, Damon, Joey, Elijah, and Ana.
The family will receive visitors on Thursday, January 25th, 4:00pm-8:00pm, at Sunset Funeral Home, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH, 44070.
A funeral mass will be held the following day, Friday, January 26th, at 10:30am, at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, 525 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village OH 44140.
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