Emma Elizabeth Gabor

EMMA ELIZABETH GABOR passed away peacefully on April 12, 2023, in her Cleveland Heights home, which she was so very proud of, at 95 years old. Emma was born in Williamson, West Virginia on April 20th, 1927, and lived in Latrobe, Pennsylvania before moving to Cleveland, where she resided for seventy years. Emma was the beloved wife of the late Edward; loving mother of Allan (wife Jingqi Li) and Lee (wife Laura Surace); devoted grandmother of Madeline; cherished daughter of the late Alexander and Susan (nee Kecskimety) Vitanye; dearest sister of the late David, Helen, and Irene.

Emma was an extraordinary woman who lived life on her own terms. Throughout her career, she brought her strong work ethic and sharp wit to roles at TRW, Higbee’s Department Store, Halle Brothers Co., and Hellen Hutchley’s. Emma was known for her attention to detail, her natural instinct to improve processes, and her appreciation for a job well done. At TRW, Emma was the first woman to receive an award for her ingenuity, which led to a patented process that enabled efficient production of aircraft turbine blades used during World War II.

In her free time, Emma poured her innate gifts into the art of interior design. She collected treasures from around the world and kept a warm, eclectic home, which was worthy of the many design magazines she loved to peruse. Emma always had a project piece she was working on, finding delight in bringing old or disregarded pieces back to life. She was a student of politics and was passionate about current events, always staying informed and educating others.

Emma showed her love through honest advice, telling stories that usually concluded with her signature charming wink, and nourishing family with long-awaited Hungarian feasts during the holidays. Her famous chicken paprikash and popovers were among the most-requested dishes.

Through life’s challenges, Emma was the calm at the center of the storm and did not allow any hardship to define her. She set the highest bar of what it means to be resilient. Emma will be remembered for her unbreakable will and her vibrant spirit lives on inside of us.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Emma to Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church.

Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Emma at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF SOUTH EUCLID, 4600 MAYFIELD RD. (just east of Green Rd.) Wednesday, April 19, 2023, from 4-7:30 PM.

Prayers of Christian Burial will follow at 7:30 PM at THE FUNERAL HOME.

Private burial at Calvary Cemetery.