Dennis E. Bihary

Dennis Edward Bihary, 78, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on August 28, 2026, in Chardon, Ohio. He was born on November 24, 1947, and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. To his family and friends, he was lovingly known as Denny, a name that suited his warm and playful spirit.

Denny graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and went on to earn a graduate degree from Cleveland State University. He spent many years as a dedicated chemical engineer, beginning his career at Diamond Shamrock in Fairport Harbor, Ohio. As the company evolved—from Diamond Shamrock to Eltech, Oxytech, and finally De Nora—Denny remained a vital part of the organization, traveling across six continents to help establish chlorine chemical plants. Though his work often took him around the globe for weeks at a time, at heart Denny was a family man who could not wait to return home to the people he loved.

Denny was a faithful member of the First Congregational Church of Claridon and gave generously of his time and heart to his community. Through his church, youth groups, and the Boy Scouts, he served in many roles and made a lasting difference in the lives of those around him. He was always there to support his children, whether cheering them on at school functions, lending a hand at 4-H activities, or simply being present for the moments that mattered most.

Denny treasured the life he shared with his beloved wife. He loved holding her hand as they walked together, sharing life’s joys and challenges, and growing closer to his Lord and Savior with each passing day. Through the years, his love for his wife and his love for his Lord grew deeper and richer, becoming an even more beautiful and meaningful part of the life they shared.

Yet, of all the things Denny loved, nothing compared to the joy he found in his children and grandchildren. He could be found fishing beside them, reading stories, exploring the woods on one adventure after another, or simply getting down on the floor to play at their level. He loved lifting his grandchildren onto his shoulders and seeing the world through their eyes. To them, he wasn’t just Grandpa—he was their adventure companion, their playmate, and a source of unconditional love.

Denny had a smile that could light up a room and a heart even bigger than his smile. His laughter, kindness, generosity, and playful spirit left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Affectionately known as the King of Fun and the Silver Maned One, Denny brought joy wherever he went. His love, laughter, and unmistakable spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Denny is lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Sayler Bihary; his daughter, Sharon Gesse (and husband Darin) and their children Megan and Madi; his son, Keith Bihary (and wife Shirley) and their children Thomas (and wife Jamie and daughter Lydia), Alexander, and Jack; his son, Stephen Bihary (and wife Abigail) and their children Analisa, Avalyn, and Adeline; his daughter, Diane Riley (and husband Brian) and their children Anna, Kyle, Paul, and Cara; and his son, Adam Bihary (and wife Valerie) and their children Mila, Lilliana, and Samuel. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Zarachowitz (and her husband Mark). He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Edward and Genevieve (Jenny) Bihary.

A funeral service will be held at 11:30am on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026 , at the First Congregational Church of Claridon 13942 Mayfield Rd, Huntsburg, OH 44046. Calling hours will be from 4-7pm on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at the Potti & Marc F. Burr Funeral Homes 1009 Mentor Ave. Painesville, OH  44077 and again from 10am to 11:30am at the First Congregational Church in Claridon. A private family burial will take place.

Donations in his memory can be made to First Congregational Church of Claridon.