The wake for Bob Tayek, who served 20 years as director of communications/media relations for the Diocese of Cleveland, will be 3-7 p.m. May 18 at Fioritto Funeral Home, 5236 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst. His funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. May 19 in Church of the Gesu, 2470 Miramar Blvd., University Heights.
Tayek, 75, died on May 12.
He joined the diocesan communications office in February 1998 after holding leadership roles at several local radio and television news outlets. He served under three bishops and said he was blessed to have the opportunity to work for the diocese because it connected deeply with his Catholic roots.
During his two decades with the diocese, Tayek worked with many reporters and editors to help spread the Good News of the Gospel on broadcast, print and social media platforms. His communications expertise also was valued by parishes, schools and other organizations. He produced several television programs, including a special on the diocesan mission in El Salvador for its 50th anniversary in 2014.
Tayek retired from the diocese in February 2018.
He was best known as the longtime public address announcer for the Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Guardians, a position he cherished. Known as “the voice of Progressive Field,” Tayek began his announcing duties in 1999. He stepped away last month due to health challenges.
While with the Guardians, Tayek announced 81 home games per year, playoff games, the World Series and the 2019 Major League Baseball All-Star game. Last year, he was acknowledged as one of the best public address announcers in Major League Baseball.
Tayek earned several broadcasting and journalism awards, including being honored by the Society of Professional Journalists for distinguished service. He also received the Chuck Heaton Award from the Press Club of Cleveland in December 2025. The honor recognizes the journalist who best exemplifies Heaton’s sensitivity and humility. In addition, he was nominated for a local television Emmy Award.
A native of Maple Heights, Tayek was a graduate of St. Peter Chanel High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Ohio University and a master’s degree from the University of Akron. He also served as an adjunct professor of communications at Baldwin Wallace and John Carroll universities.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Maria; son Douglas (Andrea); daughter Gabrielle Steiner (Ryan); and two grandchildren.
Burial will be at All Saints Cemetery in Northfield.