It is with heavy heart and deep sadness that we announce that Burt Kalniz passed away peacefully on January 11, 2021 at Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Ohio due to complications from COVID-19. Burt is the son of Milton and Rose and is survived by his loving sister, Norma. Cantor Ivor Lichterman will perform the burial ceremony on January 14, 2021 at noon at the Beth Shalom Cemetery in Oregon, Ohio.
Burt was born on June 6, 1939 in Toledo, Ohio. He was a bright and articulate child who excelled in school and later in the court room. Burt graduated with honors from the Ohio State University and Ohio Northern law school. He was a voracious reader of books and newspapers and had a sharp intelligence. Often found frequenting the Original Pancake House, The Oak'en Bucket, and The Beruit, Burt always enjoyed saying hello and starting conversation with every friend, acquaintance, and stranger he met.
Burt was an excellent lawyer and he was driven in his over forty year legal career to help people who had suffered from injuries or other harm. He built a law practice in Toledo, Ohio where at one time he was the managing partner to over twenty-five attorneys. When Burt took your case, you knew that you had an advocate in your corner and a great lawyer on your side.
Burt was a champion of the City of Toledo and he went out of his way to support the many small businesses that leased spaces in his buildings. He was a stylish dresser and in nice weather, was often spotted driving his convertible around town. He also found time to share his unique charisma to friends and neighbors in Boca Raton, Florida, where he had a vacation home.
Burt had a captivating personality and he was fun to be around at all times and for all occasions. He was considered family to many including the Jack and Cheri Lenavitt and Ted and Gretchen Iorio families. Burt "adopted" the Iorio and Lenavitt kids and grandchildren who have been in Burt's life since their birth. He was like a favorite Uncle and was always part of the family. For the past seven years, Sher Theisen was his loving caregiver and friend and was a great comfort to him.
Burt was everything to everyone, all the time, especially the young. Why? He felt they were not yet stained by the misfortunes of life. He imparted what he believed to be fun for everyone, to children and captains of industry and university presidents, he would greet all by saying, "Hi Honey." He even named one of his businesses MAJOR MAGIC. He enjoyed the role of Magician extraordinaire ... the smiles it evoked in his audience were followed by chuckles from him, sick or well, they never ceased. Yes, that's what we should all remember, he was a purveyor of "Magic": like a "Santa Clause," he delivered gifts that enhanced and changed lives. But, many more friends, charities, surrogate children and grandchildren passed through his reign of "Uncle Burt." He supported everyone's endeavors with encouragement and praise. He lived in a "tower," not the least bit sour. Burt's amusement park, a place away from the dark, illuminated with Burt "light," special to be sure, never to fail. However, on Monday, we saw the light flicker 1 and go out. We knew our lives would be lessened going forward, but felt comforted by the fact "BURT LIGHT" had shown us the path of travel.
Burt will be remembered and missed dearly by all who knew him for his Magic, intelligence, generosity, humor, and wit. For further information go to www.wickfh.com
www.wickfh.com
(419)535-5840
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