Ruben B. Gerzeny

Ruben B. Gerzeny passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on May 7, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the youngest of twelve children. He embodied the resilience, faith, and entrepreneurial spirit that powered his lifelong dedication to family, business, and community.

From Cleveland Roots to Automotive Mastery

Growing up in Cleveland during a transformative era, Ruben developed an early fascination with the automotive industry. His hands-on nature and inquisitive mind led him into the automotive world, where he built his career from the ground up-one bolt, one customer, one deal at a time.

By the 1960s, he had advanced to owning Parma Motors, a leading Volkswagen dealer in Parma, Ohio. His leadership brought integrity, customer care, and unmatched quality to the forefront. Known for putting people first, Ruben became a trusted fixture in the Ohio automotive landscape.

Florida Dreams & Entrepreneurial Expansion

In 1976, with a vision for a healthier life and new opportunities, Ruben relocated his family to Osprey, Florida. Their journey-piloting a VW van and pop-up trailer to the Gulf Coast-was symbolic of his approach: bold, hands-on, and full of hope.

He founded Venice-Nokomis Auto World, specializing in new conversion vans and used cars. In the early 1980s, he shifted to selling recreational vehicles, renaming the business to RV World Inc., of Nokomis. Later in his career, he expanded to three additional locations on the West Coast of Florida and changed the name to Gerzeny's RV World. This was the perfect blend of the skills he developed in Ohio and his forward-looking entrepreneurial drive.

The Birth of Coach House – Innovation Meets Elegance

In 1985, Ruben launched Coach House, producing custom-built Class B motorhomes in a modest Venice workshop. His pursuit of excellence led to a breakthrough in 2000: a patented, one-piece, carbon-fiber-reinforced fiberglass motorhome body. The result was a quieter, sturdier, virtually leak-proof design that redefined quality in the industry.

Coach House earned a respected reputation for luxury and craftsmanship, producing a limited number of high-end Class B and C units that reflected Ruben's exacting standards.

Family, Values, and a Living Legacy

Gerzeny's RV World and Coach House were more than businesses-they were an extension of Ruben's values and mentorship. His sons David, Steve, and Matt now play integral roles in running and expanding the companies. Even in later years, Ruben remained a constant mentor, influencing every model and every employee with his wisdom and attention to detail.

A Man of Character Beyond Craft

Ruben lived with intention and warmth. He valued honest work, led with kindness, and fostered an environment where employees felt recognized and included. Monthly luncheons, shared celebrations, and his steady leadership defined the workplace culture he built.

Away from the business, Ruben was a devoted family man-cherishing time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved his farm, trips to North Carolina, work, evenings filled with laughter, and passing down family stories to the next generation.

Survived By

Ruben is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Beverly; sons David (Kimberly), Steven (Stephanie), and Matt (Viktoria); seven grandchildren, Zachary, Carissa, Christopher, Adrienne (Matias), Nicholas, Brandon & Ryan and three great-grandchildren, Oliver, Daisy & Leon. His sister Katherine. Brother-in-law Ed (Debi), sister-in-law Darlene and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Bert and Mary, 10 siblings and cherished grandson Michael.

Service & Memorial Details

A memorial service celebrating Ruben's life will be held on Tuesday, September 2, at Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239. Guests may arrive at 10:30 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A private graveside service for family will follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Children's Ministry Funds at Church of the Palms in Ruben's memory. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements. To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farelyfuneralhome.com.

If you are unable to attend, the service will be lived streamed at, www.churchofthepalms.org.