Frank Szalay 1938-2025

Born April 16, 1938, in Papa, Hungary, Frank’s journey began in a small Hungarian town, but it was in America that he truly made his mark.

In 1957, Frank and his family embarked on a new adventure, relocating first to New York on March 19, and soon thereafter to Youngstown, on April 4, where he would plant deep roots. Frank spent nearly five decades as the proud owner and operator of Eastern Tool & Machine, a company he built with dedication and craftsmanship, retiring in 2013.

Frank’s contributions to the community extended beyond his professional life. He was a devoted member of the United Hungarian Presbyterian Church since his arrival in 1957. He was also a proud member of the Saxon Club, the United Hungarian Club, the Saxon Bocce Team and most notably the Hungarian Freedom Fighters, where he formed cherished friendships and enjoyed many light-hearted moments.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Helen Elizabeth Voros Szalay, whom he married Jan. 13, 1957; his sons, Frank (Susan) of New Middletown, Alex of Deerfield Beach, Florida, Laszlo of Brighton, Michigan, and Dr. Thomas (Megan) of Struthers; his daughter, Martha (Larry Frank) Prefontaine of Coral Springs, Florida; his sister, Margit (Peter) Menyhart of Szombathely, Hungary; nine grandchildren, Michael (Danica) Szalay, Eric Prefontaine, Sarah Szalay, Kristen Szalay, Jonah Prefontaine, Sam Szalay, Ava Szalay, Ella Szalay and Sawyer Szalay; and two great-grandchildren, Parthena and Elliott Szalay.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sandor and Margit Bognar Szalay; and two brothers, Sandor and Tibor Szalay.

Private family services were held at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel. Burial took place in Poland Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org.

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