Obituary of Tony Klokoc

Anthony Joseph Klokoc ("Tony") of Ashtabula, a devoted Navy veteran and community member, passed away on April 11, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska, at the age of 85. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Bozena Bertha (Hulova) and Victor Klokoc. Following the death of his parents, he spent several years in an orphanage before finding a loving foster family, where he was raised by Emily and Joe Mirous in Sheffield Township. Tony dedicated 20 years of his life to the Navy, serving his country with honor and distinction. Few people knew that while in the Navy, he fell 36 feet (3 decks) into a provisions hold on the USS Vega in 1964. Despite very serious injuries from the fall, he was determined to return to duty and proudly did so after several months of recovery in a military hospital. After two decades of active duty and 10 years of Fleet Reserve status, he finally retired in 1985. Following his military career, Tony worked diligently for another 20 years at the Ashtabula post office, where his commitment and strong work ethic were greatly appreciated. One of Tony's many assignments on at least 6 different ships, was serving as a Catholic lay leader in the Navy. He remained a devout Catholic throughout his adult life, praying frequently and fervently for his family and our country. In addition to his military and postal service, Tony was an active member and longtime supporter of the VFW, serving 2 years as Commander of VFW Post 943, where he demonstrated his passion for supporting fellow veterans and their families. Many may recognize Tony because for decades he could be seen picking up trash and hazardous road debris on his daily walks around the West End of Ashtabula. He did this simply because he cared about his neighbors and community. In his later years, he was a friendly and familiar face greeting everyone he met while walking miles at the mall with his friend, the late Katherine "Dolly" Lewis. Tony's life was not always easy, and he faced his fair (and sometimes unfair) share of challenges. What will never be forgotten is a life marked by strength, resilience, love, kindness and a deep commitment to serving others. Tony will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering loyalty and selflessness. He touched the lives of many through his years of service and dedication to his family, his country and the Ashtabula community. If you had the privilege of knowing him, his memory will hopefully inspire you to show unconditional grace and kindness to others, even when it is undeserved. Tony was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Jean Anthonette Mac, siblings, Frank Hula, Victor Klokoc, Ladislov Klokoc, Mary Ann Klokoc, James Ward, Elizabeth Smolinski, twin brother Joseph Klokoc, his beloved companion of 30 years, Ada Hornbeck and Ada's son Brad Hornbeck. Tony is survived by his son, Mico (Regina) Klokoc (Indianapolis, IN); Ada's two daughters, Pat Cochran (Seward, NE-formerly of Ashtabula) and Linda Race (Colorado Springs, CO). Ada's grandchildren, Danna (Scott) Seevers (Seward, NE), Amanda Race (Daniel Darnell) (Fairbanks, AK), Jeff (Mandy) Race (Colorado Springs), Brad Hornbeck II, Samantha (Travis) Tauche, Rebecca (Jeff) Hayes, and Jessica Hornbeck, all from Ashtabula, were a cherished part of Tony's life. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and Ada's great-grandkids who held a special place in his heart. A memorial service to honor Tony's life will be held this Saturday, June 10, at Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula. Calling hours are 10-11am with the service beginning at 11am. Military honors will be held at the funeral home with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations/memorials be made in Tony's name to VFW Post 943 at 4102 Main Ave., in Ashtabula or DAV-CH.39 at 5613 Madison Ave., Ashtabula, OH 44004. Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula, is handling arrangements. Online obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com