Louis Alex Bonyhadi Jr.

AKA Louie, Big Lou, Dad, Grandpa, Oohlee and a friend to a ton of people. Born on October 28, 1957 on a cool crisp Monday in Bethlehem, Pa to Gizella (Gizi/Anya) and Louis Alex Bonyhadi who escaped communist Hungary in 1956 making Louie first generation American.

The Bonyhadi’s came in at Ellis Island, NY, moved to Bethlehem, Pa moved back to The Bronx, NY where first sister Katy was born. The family moved to Cleveland, Oh and finally to Montebello, Ca where second sister, Gizi was born.

Louie was a good student throughout his schooling, he attended Greenwood Elementary, Montebello Jr. High, Montebello High School graduating in 1975 and Rio Hondo Community College. He also did a short stint as a City of Montebello Police Cadet. He had many friends that he shared great times with their fancy cars and motorcycles.

Louie started his working life early, worked at the corner store on Greenwood Ave. with Jim and Willie, worked on catering trucks with Sam, worked at a super market as a forklift operator, went into warehousing for many large companies, was an umpire for little league baseball, became a Realtor, managed the football teams snack shack at Ryan’s high school and finally the auto sales industry with Kia and the Moss Bros. which he absolutely loved.

Louie met Diane, the love of his life, in the apartment complex where he grew up. When they married, Louie gained two bonus children, Paul and Andrea. Louie and Diane just celebrated being married for 50 years.

Louie became an amazing Dad in 1981 to Ryan, who is married to our lovely Carri with two beautiful boys Nikko and Lukka making Louie and Diane Grandparents, which was the joy of his lifetime. Their grandkids total 5, including Andrea’s Mitchell, and Paul’s Madeline and Tino.

Louie was well known for his ability to fix anything. For coming to Carri's rescue to happily lend a hand in putting together furniture, building a swing set or pool deck or any emergency, Louie was always there. Also known for being very organized, having excellent penmanship and for his ability to navigate at an all you can eat buffet with expert planning. To watch this man eat, was a joyful experience in itself.

We imagine Louie, Anya and Katy playing cards after sitting at Sizzler’s in heaven sharing a meal navigating that salad bar, smiling down on us as we celebrate the awesome son, the bestest brother, the most amazing husband, the outstanding Dad, the devoted Grandpa and Buddy to many….x o x

Rest in Paradise Louie, We love you!