Leonardo Gjergj Dedivanaj

It is with a heavy heart that we share the untimely death of Leonardo Dedivanaj, 50, of Shelby Township, beloved husband of Nicole Dedivanaj (Sulaka), proud father to Christian (9), Cecilia (7) and Charlotte (6). Loving son of Gjergj and Palina Dedivanaj. Dearest brother of Viktor (Mirela) Dedivanaj. Dear son in law of the late Nick and Ikhlas Sulaka. Loving brother in law of Stephanie (Corey) Cluff, Nicholas (Jessica) Sulaka, and Jonathon (Sandra) Sulaka. Remembered by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Born on October 5, 1974, in Livonia, MI, Leo was a first-generation Albanian who grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family. Childhood for Leo meant gatherings with over 50 relatives, cousin sleepovers, and family celebrations every weekend. Embracing the love, friendships, and joy of his culture; Leo radiated a magnetic warmth, always wearing a contagious smile and speaking with a passion for life that inspired everyone around him. In his teenage years, he channeled his vibrant energy into playing music, performing as a drummer at various events. As an adult, he made creativity his career by becoming a hairstylist. Over the past 25 years, Leo worked at some of the most elite salons in Macomb County, forging lifelong relationships with clients and colleagues alike. His chair became a place of connection, where he offered a listening ear, sound advice, and a helping hand. To Leo, his clients and colleagues were like a second family. His generosity was extended to everyone. Leo was always grateful for the artistic gifts God had bestowed upon him.
The greatest and most unexpected gift in Leo's life was his wife, Nicole, whom he met at a New Year's Eve party in 2011. Expecting a night of celebration with friends and family, he instead met his soulmate. Like him, Nicole was a first-generation Chaldean from a close-knit family and embraced her vibrant culture. Leo was instantly captivated by her ambition, kindness, and beauty. Soon, they were engaged, and they married on February 2, 2013. Together, they were the life of every gathering, lighting up any room they entered. Their love for each other was undeniable, and they shared this radiant joy with those around them.
God blessed Leo and Nicole in 2015 with Christian Leonardo, the first grandson on both sides, who idolized his father for his strength, heart, and honesty. In 2016, Cecilia Grace was born, bringing even more beauty and light into their little family. In 2018, their final angel, Charlotte Ann was born completing their family with her effortlessly sweet personality.
The past nine years as a father were the happiest of Leo's life. His greatest joy was found in moments with his children-throwing a football with Christian, playing dress-up with Cece, or having dance parties with Charlotte. Leo shared his creativity, love for others, and spirituality with his children. He instilled the confidence in them to be authentic and true to themselves while giving credit to God for all their beautiful blessings. Leo lives on through them-through Christian's looks, Cece's expressions, and Charlotte's radiant smile.
On November 12, 2024, Leo was called by God to watch over his family from heaven. Now their guardian angel, he will continue to protect, guide, and love them as they grow, becoming his enduring legacy.
Visitation Monday 3-9pm with 5:30pm Rosary at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons 54480 Van Dyke at 25 Mile (SHELBY TOWNSHIP). Funeral Tuesday Instate 9:30am at St. Therese of Lisieux Church 48115 Schoenherr (btw. 21 & 22 Mile Rds.) until time of Mass at 10:00am. Interment Guardian Angel Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com