James William Hlozek, born on July 12, 1918, entered into God's Kingdom on February 24, 2013, after a short illness.
He served in the South Pacific during World War II, earning a Bronze Star and other decorations for marksmanship. He participated in the battle for Guadalcanal in the Pacific. When he returned home he married the love of his life, Flora, on December 9, 1942. Together they raised four daughters: Alice Goers (William, deceased) of Cuenca, Ecuador; Luann Simila (Phillip) of Green Bay, Wisconsin; Janet Lyncha (Steve) of Columbia Station, Ohio; and Joyce Martz ( Dean) of Spokane, Washington.
Jim was a lifelong resident of Northeast Ohio. He was an outdoorsman, enjoying small game hunting, fishing, camping and snowmobiling, as well as his many trips to Canada. Each year he had a garden, growing many vegetables. In his younger years he enjoyed trap shooting and was a gun safety instructor. He was always tinkering with things, and could fix almost anything that was broken.
He retired in 1984, keeping himself busy each day until a fall caused him to move out of his home. He is preceded in death by his wife, Flora, his parents and his brother Charles.
In August of 2012, he and his daughter Janet were able to participate in an "Honor Flight", going to Washington D.C. to see the World War II memorial. He truly enjoyed that trip and was grateful to the many individuals who made it possible for him to go.
He will be sadly missed by his longtime companion Norma Coletta, his daughters and grandchildren: Dale S. Kearney, Jackie Augustin (Jason), Michelle Boetticher (Aaron), Eric Simila, Julie and Flora Grace Martz, as well as his great-grandchildren: Lucas and Lucia Augustin; Ava, Vincent and Von Boetticher.
Jim had a lifelong affection for animals. In lieu of flowers his family suggests donations to the Cleveland Animal Protective League, 1729 Willey Ave. Cleveland OH 44113. Funeral Service Saturday March 2 at 4:00 p.m. in the CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME 29150 LORAIN RD. AT STEARNS, N. OLMSTED where friends may call 12 noon until time of Service.