Louis James Fusz Sr.

He celebrated his 94th birthday this past Sunday. He was blessed with the Holy Sacrament and died peacefully in Palm Beach, FL. Mr. Fusz was born in St. Louis, MO, to Eugene A. Fusz and Eliza Ring Fusz, a descendant of many generations of St. Louisians.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Martha Downard Fusz, his ten children: Reine Fusz Bitting, Anne Fusz Grace, Louis J. Fusz, Jr., Eugene A. Fusz, Martha Fusz Ramey, Eliza Fusz Whittemore, Josephine Fusz Rugart, Lucie Fusz Tonan, Daniel D. Fusz, and Phillip R. Fusz as well as 35 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Paul D. Fusz and a grandson John E. Dempsey III.

Mr. Fusz was founder and chairman of the board of the Lou Fusz Automotive Network, founded in 1952, the Network has grown to become one of the largest in the country. He was inducted into the St. Louis Business Hall of Fame. He is a 1941 graduate of Georgetown University and served his country in the Coast Guard from 1941 - 1945.

He married his wife Martha in 1943 and spent the next 70 years in loving companionship. This past June, surrounded by their family, they celebrated their wonderful life together.

He spent the last thirty years as a tournament level croquet enthusiast participating in the croquet community as club chairman, tournament director, designated as a regional referee, and will be remembered as a fierce competitor. He brought twelve of his family into the sport to share his passion.

Mr. Fusz was a life long daily communicant and supporter of the Catholic Church and it's many charitable endeavors both in St. Louis and Palm Beach. He gave generously of his personal time to many organizations, and supported them throughout his life. He was honored to be a member of the Knights of Malta. He was a member of the Everglades Club and Beach Club in Palm Beach, and Old Warson Country Club in St. Louis, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Church or the Knights of Malta in lieu of flowers.

Services: Visitation will be held at Kriegshauser Mortuary West Chapel, 9450 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, Friday, Nov. 29. Memorial Mass will be at Our Lady of The Pillar , 401 S. Lindbergh Blvd., at 11:00am Saturday, Nov. 30. Reception to follow in the Parish Life Center.