Obituary of Kevin J. Lazeski

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Kevin Lazeski, affectionately known as "Kev" and "Pops," who left us at the age of 46 on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Arnot Ogden Hospital in Elmira, NY. Kevin's larger-than-life spirit and unwavering commitment to his family and community will be greatly missed. Kevin is predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Anna Maria Tongate, Paternal grandparents Gerald T. Lazeski, Senior and Patricia A. Lazeski. Kevin was also predeceased by his special Aunt and Second Mother, Catherine A. Kwasnik, Uncle Thomas S. Lazeski and Uncle Stanley J. Lazeski. A proud resident of Elmira, Kevin was known not just as a father, son, husband, brother, and friend, but as a passionate sports enthusiast who shared his love for football and baseball with anyone who would listen. He played Division I baseball for the Pittsburgh Panthers, a chapter of his life that instilled in him a sense of team spirit which he carried throughout his life. Kev often enjoyed basketball games with his son, Kye, as well as the laughter shared on the golf course with friends and coworkers. Professionally, Kevin held managerial roles at Hobby Lobby and Christmas Tree Shops, where his leadership and work ethic shone through. Kevin later reached a significant milestone when he fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening two beloved restaurants in Elmira—Central Hots and Paesano's Pizza. These establishments quickly became cherished by local residents, a testament to the dedication Kevin had to his customers, who easily became friends. He leaves behind a loving family and countless friends, whose lives were forever touched by his unwavering dedication, generous nature, and quirky sense of humor. Our world will feel a little dimmer without his radiant presence. Kevin is survived by his wife, Sheena M. Lazeski; his two sons, Kye James and Kasen Michael; his parents, Kathy and Jerry Lazeski all of Elmira. He is also survived by his brother, Shawn (Marla) Lazeski of the Pittsburgh area, sister-in-law Heather (Dave) Henry, mother and father in laws, Susan and Howard Henry and several nieces, nephews, many friends, and his beloved cats Kitty Witty, Bo, Sis, and Thomas. A celebration of life honoring Kevin will be held on Saturday, September 21, from 2-6pm, at the Hibernians Center in Elmira. Friends and family are invited to join as we celebrate the profound impact Kevin had on our lives and the Elmira community. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to an education fund for Kevin's two sons, Kye and Kasen. You need to go to Ugift529.com and enter the code Z1T-A0T for Kye and F9L-31P for Kasen. Kevin's legacy of kindness and community spirit deserves to live on, just as he will in our memories. The family sincerely appreciates how supportive the community has been in Kevin's untimely death.