Michael Robert Bocka Sr., age 66, of Galion, passed away at his home on Thursday, March 26, 2015, while surrounded by his loving family.
Michael was born on January 1, 1949, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Emil and Leora (Gasser) Bocka. He graduated from Crestview High School in 1967. Michael is survived by his wife of 44 years, Karen Sue (Baker) Bocka of Galion.
Michael was a loving and devoted husband and father. He loved the Lord, and he loved people. He enjoyed the outdoors, tractors and spending time with his family. Known as “Mike” to many, he worked for years in the sales of agricultural and construction equipment. He served on the church board, was a Sunday School teacher and shared his deep bass voice with the choir where he was a member for 28 years at the Galion First Church of the Nazarene.
Mike was a wonderful “Papaw” to his grandchildren. He greatly enjoyed many hours of playing games, laughter and love with them. He will be greatly missed, yet we know that he is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in his new heavenly home.
Michael is also survived by his son, Michael Robert “Mickey” (Tammy) Bocka, Jr. of Galion; his daughter, Anita (Jerry) Beal of Mount Vernon; Grandchildren: Cobey Bocka (19), Melany Bocka (14), Elizabeth Beal (15) and Evan Beal (12). Brother, Larry Bocka, formerly of Mansfield and now Centerburg; Sisters: Loretta (Aaron) Steffen of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Elaine (Dave) Tuttle of Mansfield, Joyce (Lanny) Young of Mansfield; Elise (Kenny) Baldridge of Mansfield; Sister-In-Law: Martha Baker of Crestline and a large extended family with many nieces and nephews.
Friends may call on Sunday, March 29, from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Mark A. Schneider Funeral Home, 303 Portland Way North Galion. A Celebration of Life Service will be held by Dr. Richard McCartney on Monday, March 30, 2015, at 11 a.m. at the at Galion First Church Of The Nazarene, 777 Fairview Avenue, Galion. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Crestline.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Galion First Church Of The Nazarene or to HomeCare Matters Home Health and Hospice in care of the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made to the family at masfh.com.
