John M. Vivoda

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WARREN - John M. Vivoda, 67, of Warren, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center Wade Park Campus after courageously fighting a long illness.

John was born Sept. 23, 1941, in Warren, a son of John Vivoda and Katherine Vinkovich Vivoda.

He served in the U.S. Army in Texas and Germany.

John retired from Packard Electric Co., where he worked on the battery line.

John was often referred to as ''The Shades of Robin Hood,'' as he was an avid bowhunter, expert marksman and was known for his craft in precision arrow making.

Survivors include his only child, Paula John Vivoda-Klotz of Warren; two granddaughters, Natasha A. Vivoda and Anastasia E. Klotz of Champion; a brother, Louis Busick of Howland; and a sister, Margaret Vivoda of Champion. John also leaves former wife, Judith Bogle, and his girlfriend, Judy Becker, who were by his side in his times of need; and his son-in-law, Michael W. Klotz, who was his hunting partner.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Busick; and three sisters, Janet Gaston, Nancy Vivoda, Delores Burnick and Carol Denunzio.

Calling hours will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Sinchak and Sons Funeral Home, where funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday. Burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements were made through Sinchak and Sons Funeral Home.

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