Joseph Fazekas

Joseph Fazekas died after a period of failing health on June 4, 2010 surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was 82. Born in the small village of Szoc, Hungary on April 21, 1928, Joseph was forging, fitting, and shoeing horses in his father's blacksmith shop by the age of 12. He spent his teenage years enjoying and perfecting his ornamental iron and welding skills. During the Revolution of 1956, Joseph, his wife, and 2 young children had to leave their loved ones, a home, and all their possessions behind to escape communist controlled Hungary. With only one suitcase in hand, they paid to be hidden on a train that crossed into Austria in hopes that they would find freedom and a better life. In 1959, Joseph's dream came true when he and his family were able to leave Europe for America. He arrived in the U.S. with his young family and $178. Despite not being able to speak English, Joseph was determined to achieve the American Dream and build a wonderful life for his family. He often worked 2 jobs to...