Does a star know how brightly it shines? Our dear Julian shone so brightly to us, his grateful family. Son to Amy Dembinski Bodek and Steven Bodek, Brother to Gabrielle Brendahl, Brother in Law to Ryan Brendahl, Uncle to Lana and Finn. Nephew, Cousin, and Friend to countless.

Julian shared his immense and loving heart to everyone that he met. Family was everything to him. He excluded no one from it. His beautiful smile is forever burned into our hearts.

Julian's journey began in New Jersey, exploring the neighborhood, curious and inclusive. Neighbors quickly learned to set a plate for him at any hour.

The move to Mexico was difficult. A new language. A new culture. Yet his mission remained the same, growing his family, and securing his seat at more tables.

But Julian's final, most enduring stop was Ohio. Surrounded by Dembinskis, he found comfort and reliability, biking with his uncle, lighting up family gatherings at Matt and Dolods, and mentoring his second cousin. Ohio was and will forever be his home.

Julian struggled the last few years, his grasp on serenity slipping away, sharply in the end. Finally, his heart and mind could no longer reconcile.

He will endure for us. His piercing eyes. His bear hugs. His generous insistent demand that we celebrate each other. He burned so brightly with love, a star that gave so much more than it could receive.

Friends may call at LATEK & RYBICKI, A GOLDEN RULE FUNERAL HOME , 7906 BROADVIEW RD. (corner of Broadview and Sprague Rds.), where services will be held Thursday, June 3, at 7:30 PM. MEMORIAL GATHERING:  THURSDAY 4 PM until time of service.