Robert J Kudej

Robert J. Kudej, age 87, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026 after a courageous battle against cancer.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 65 years, Carol (nee Matuska); loving sons Gary (Celeste) and Steve (Felicia); grandchildren Amanda Zatezalo (Jim), Emily, Michael (Meghan), Nick (Kayla), Allie Grospitch (Kevin), Alexi (Morgan), Megan (Zakk), Robert, Sean, and Ronnie; 9 great-grandchildren and preceded to Heaven by great-grandson, George; sister Jane Dydo-Louis and especially his youngest sister Marlene Franchino (Joseph); sister-in-law Janet Celedonia (Frank); brother-in-law Greg Rinehart (Susan and first wife, Jane, deceased); and many other loving relatives.

Robert was the son of the late James and Emily Kudej. He had a 40-year career with United Airlines in Pittsburgh, Denver, and Cleveland from 1956 until his retirement in 1996 as a Ramp Supervisor. He enjoyed the many occasions when the family would get together, treasuring the time spent with those he loved; golfing with his sons, grandsons, and especially with his friends that he met from the St. Bart's golf league; trips to Hawaii and Las Vegas with family and friends (keno and poker were his favorite games); watching INDIANS baseball; and keeping up with United news via his son and grandkids who carried on the UA tradition.

His favorite catchphrases were "Let me ask you this" and "Give me a buzz".

Bob - we will all miss you being in our lives and will forever treasure our memories with you. We know you got the best seat on the flight to Heaven. We love you!

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert's name may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation at https://glioblastomafoundation.org or to Holy Family Hospice at https://staugministries.org/ways-to-give.

Family and friends may call at the BUSCH FUNERAL HOME, 7501 Ridge Road, Parma, OH 44129 on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 2PM-6PM. Prayers at the Funeral Home will be Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10:30AM. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Columbkille following at 11:30AM. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. www.buschcares.com. 440.842.7800.