Jeffrey Lynn Bousek

Jeffrey Lynn Bousek, 73, of LaGrange, Ohio, passed away on March 5, 2026. Born on May 4, 1953, to Jacob and Verdie Bousek, Jeff was known by many as a stubborn yet humorous man.

He attended Keystone Schools, graduating in 1971 alongside his best friends, affectionately known as “the boys.” Jeff served as a volunteer firefighter for several years with the Carlisle Fire Department. He worked as a garbage man for Browning-Ferris Industries, that eventually became Republic Waste Services, a role from which he retired in 2019 with over three decades of dedicated service.

An undiscovered talent in the kitchen and on the grill, many agree that Jeff made the best barbecue ribs in Lorain County. His secret BBQ sauce was the key. He had a remarkable ability to strike up a conversation with anyone in the room and valued his connections with others. Among those, none was stronger than the lifelong friendship he shared with David Kidder; a bond that began in second grade and lasted 65 years.

Jeff was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Bousek, and his parents, Jacob and Verdie. He is survived by his brother, Wayne Bousek (Bonnie); his sister, Linda Engdall; his daughters, Jackie Bousek and Julie Marshall (Ezra); and his granddaughters, Beverly and Cecilia Marshall.

There’s only one way Jeff would want his life celebrated—with a cold beer, sharing stories and memories in the company of those who knew him. We will honor him in that spirit on his birthday weekend: Saturday, May 2, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at the LaGrange Tavern, 108 East Main Street, LaGrange, Ohio. The family kindly requests no flowers or gifts and instead asks that you always tip your bartenders generously.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.