Obituary of Lawrence J. Kroviak

Lawrence (Larry) J. Kroviak, age 89, walked proudly into heaven on December 27, 2009, with his loving family by his side, at the Masonic Care Community in Utica. He was born August 15, 1920, in White Haven, PA, a son of John and Mary Latanik Kroviak, and graduated from Throop High School in Throop, PA. Larry was united in marriage to the former Julia Czyscon, on June 22, 1946, in the Church of the Transfiguration. He was employed at Revere Copper Products and retired in 1980. He was a member of the Church of the Transfiguration, St. Cecelia Choir, Holy Name Society, South Rome Seniors, Revere Athletic Association, Lifetime member of Rome Polish Home and former member of the Rome Art Association. He served as a Literacy Volunteer and taught painting to the residents at the Rome Developmental Center. Larry is survived by his loving wife of sixty-three years, Julia; and three children, Lawrence (Bud, Larry) Kroviak, and Mary Margaret Jackson both of Durham, NC, and Christal Benedict of Rome. Affectionately known as "Boppy", he also leaves four cherished and adored grandchildren who will forever miss his "Boppy squeeze", Larry Alan Jackson of Chapel Hill, NC, Christopher Jackson of Durham, NC, Jennifer Jackson of Chapel, NC and Richard Benedict of Rome. Also surviving are two sisters in law and a brother in law, Mary Wojdyla of Orlando, FL, and Emily and Bob Chernosky of East Syracuse, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews, especially Dorothea and Richard Park; and a multitude of friends. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 9:45 AM from the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, and at 10:30 AM at the Church of the Transfiguration. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home, Wednesday 4 to 7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Senior Center of South Rome. The Kroviak family wishes to thank Pat Roper, our wonderful caregiver, and the St. Thomas family, our great neighbors. We also are thankful for the care of Dr Tallim, Dr Parker, Dr E. Wassel, Dr Kashtanova, the Rome, Faxton and Masonic Care Community Regional Dialysis Centers, Dr Wicox, Dr Erim and the entire staff of the Masonic Care Community, especially the Forestport Household staff and the wonderful and caring friends Larry met while a resident since December 2007. We are forever grateful for all your care, concern and friendship. Thank you for taking such good care of our sweetheart. Walk Proud Bop, Walk Proud!