John S. Mrkvica Obituary (1927

John “Opa” Mrkvica 1927 – 2018 age 90, of Canton, died Sunday, September 9, 2018 after a short illness. Born in Bellaire, Oh to the late John and Helen Mrkvica. Preceded in death by his wife, Louise “Oma” Mrkvica.They were married December 9, 1952 in Aachen, Germany, Louise’s home town. After serving 7 years and 3 months in the U.S. Army in Germany, they returned to America together on the USNS Geiger in March 1953. They settled in Canton to spend the rest of their lives. Also preceded in death by sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Herbert Rhoads; brother-in-law, Hans Holland (Janny) of Germany. Survived by his daughter, Linda (Michael) Hoagland; grandson, Nicholas (Gretchen) Hoagland; great grandchildren, Berri and John “Jackie”; sister, Helen Samsa and nieces and nephews. Thank you Daddy for being a perfect example of how to live life for the short time we are here on this earth. My entire life I only saw love, happiness, thankfulness, compassion and strength. These traits were for people close to you or for strangers on the street it made no difference. I can only hope that I can continue to live my life as a mirror of you. You were my HERO, forever in my heart, Linda. Opa, as you were known to all that you knew. A “man” in every sense; duty to family, friends, country, and strangers. Compassion, empathy, a swashbuckling spirit of always figuring anything out, no matter what it was or how difficult the mission. I will miss the trips to the Eagles, the Moose, and even the VFW for late night bingo. I will really miss you carrying me up the stairs from the basement after I was done playing the “mitsi-boom-boom”. Most of all, I will miss your home always being a place of warmth, comfort, and enjoyment. Although I never became a pro bowler, all of those times you took me to the bowling alley (every day) paid off in other ways which I truly hope that you realize. I can only hope to be as good a dad (and grandpa) as you were to mom and me. Love, Nick A gathering of family and friends will be Friday from 11 am to Noon in the Schneeberger Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in John’s name to the Salvation Army, 420 Market Ave. S, Canton, OH 44702, Cripple Creek Ferals and Friends, P.O. Box 172, Uniontown, OH 44685 or a charity of your choice to help the people of Stark County. To share a memory or send condolences, visit us at www.SchneebergerFuneral.com Schneeberger 330-456-8237