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Louis J. Zuponcic, known to most as Lou, passed away on May 10, 2026 in Newton Falls, leaving behind a life that was full of love, loyalty, laughter, and enough personality to fill a room before he even said a word.
Born on Dec. 22, 1966 n Cleveland, Ohio, Lou came into the world with the kind of sturdy, no-nonsense spirit that people from Northeast Ohio seem to wear like a badge of honor. He carried that spirit throughout his life, along with a sharp sense of humor that could turn an ordinary moment into a story worth repeating. Lou had a gift for making people laugh in a way that felt effortless, as if he had simply decided the world needed a little more amusement and took it upon himself to provide it.
Lou was a Christian, and his faith was an important part of who he was. It shaped the way he treated people, the way he faced challenges, and the way he understood what mattered most in life. He believed in family, in doing right by others, and in the kind of strength that does not need to announce itself. Lou was not the type to make a big speech about character, because he preferred to show it in the way he lived every day.
He is survived by his wife, Drandi Zuponcic, who stood beside him through life with love and partnership that meant everything. Together they built a family rooted in devotion, humor, and the kind of shared history that cannot be measured in years alone. Lou also leaves behind his beloved children, Micheal Kurtz, Colton Brady, Garrett Brady, John Roy, and Ethan Roy. He loved his children deeply and took pride in them in the way only a father can, with a mixture of protectiveness, encouragement, and the occasional look that said he had already figured out the punchline to whatever trouble they were probably about to cause.
He was preceded in life by his parents, Louis and Faith Zuponcic, and he carried their influence with him always. He also leaves behind his brothers, Richard and Christopher Zuponcic, with whom he shared the kind of bond that only siblings truly understand. That bond likely included equal parts loyalty, teasing, and the occasional memory that could still make everyone laugh years later. Family gatherings with Lou around were never likely to be dull, because he had a way of keeping things lively whether anyone asked for it or not.
Lou had interests that suited him well, especially fishing and firearms. Fishing gave him the chance to enjoy patience, quiet, and the hope that something would eventually bite, which is a philosophy that probably served him well in more than one area of life. Firearms reflected another side of him, one marked by respect, skill, and a steady hand. He appreciated the outdoors, the discipline of a good hobby, and the satisfaction of doing things the right way. Lou was the kind of man who could enjoy a calm day by the water and still have a story ready for later that made it sound like an adventure.
Those who knew Lou will remember his humor most of all. He had a comedian’s timing, a straight face that could make a joke land even harder, and a way of saying exactly the thing everyone else was thinking but too polite to say. He could be warm, quick-witted, and just mischievous enough to keep people on their toes. He understood that life is serious enough on its own, so he did his part to make sure there was room for laughter too.
Lou’s life was one of connection, faith, family, and memorable moments. He will be remembered for the love he gave, the laughs he inspired, and the strong presence he brought into every room. His family and friends will carry forward the stories, the lessons, and the unmistakable sound of Lou being Lou, which is to say, impossible to forget and hard to outdo.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
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