Les Szabo

Les was born Lazlo Szabo to Hungarian parents, John and Elisabeth (Fuery) Szabo on December 19, 1968, in Romania. John & Elisabeth had a plan for a better life for their boys and when Les was 4 years old they left Communist Romania. They gave up everything except what they could fit into two suitcases and embarked on the journey to New York City. It was important for Les’ parents to assimilate into their new culture while maintaining their rich Hungarian history and traditions. Both parents worked tirelessly at two or three jobs to achieve this better life for their sons.

When Les was 7, the family moved to Colorado, where he grew up with his brother John. Many of his favorite childhood memories include his cousin Les Boska. They were inseparable then and through the years were like brothers. In later years even the miles between New York and Denver didn’t stand in the way.

Les loved the Lord, his politics, his family, sports, and being an American. Les never took for granted the freedoms and opportunities of America. This was evident by the patriotic things he wore. He was a loyal member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors since 1998, where he made many lasting friendships. He worked at Centric Elevator for over 20 years and Otis Elevator for the past 3 years. Les always took great pride in his work and made sure his customers got a top-quality job.

In younger years, Les spent most of his time skiing. He only knew how to ski one way; straight down and very fast! Les had an extremely competitive nature and greatly enjoyed playing with his brother John on several softball teams. Les was more competitive than you can imagine and expected a win from his teammates every time. He played 3rd base with a passion and had several championship trophies for his efforts.

He later developed a passion for golf. (Luckily, in Colorado, golf season can be 9 or 10 months out of the year.) Les played on many teams and leagues and was always up to the challenge of a new course. He also bowled on several leagues over the years and held a decent average. He made friends everywhere he went, especially through sports.

Les married the love of his life, Sophia Schwartz, from Colon, Michigan, on August 26, 2000. Alexis came into the family in 2001 and Zachary joined them in 2005. The Szabos traveled to Michigan twice each year to visit family around the 4th of July and again around Christmas.

Les loved watching his daughter perform at school concerts and musicals, but his favorite performances were when she was singing 70’s and 80’s rock with the Littleton Conservatory of Rock. He even enjoyed going to concerts with Ally and her friends. Although sad when she left home, he was so proud when she enrolled at CSU.

Luckily Zach shares his father’s passion for sports. Through the years Les invested his time teaching Zach whatever skills were necessary for the sport he wanted to play. Les watched many of his flag football, Jeffco Football, baseball and basketball games. He took Zach to Avalanche, Rockies and even Broncos games (everyone knows Les was a fanatical Raider’s fan). Les didn’t stop at sports, he was also the leader of Zach’s boy scout troop for a few years. Needless to say, he took the pine box derby race very seriously and helped Zach place 1st for scouts and Ally even placed 1st for siblings.

Les was a generous man. When others were in need, whether a neighbor or a friend, he was there to help financially or with his handyman skills. There was never a hesitation from him if someone needed help. His absence will be felt my many.

Les is survived by his wife, Sophia and his children, Alexis and Zachary. The Memorial Service in Les’ honor will be at Olinger Chapel Hill at 6601 South Colorado Boulevard, Centennial, CO on Saturday, January 15, at 2:00 with a reception from 3:00-5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Front Range Christian School. Donations in Les Szabo’s memory may be made at frcs.org/szabo or donations mailed to Front Range Christian School, 6657 Ottowa Ave A-17, Littleton CO 80128.