Obituary of Andrew Kluka

Andrew Kluka passed away suddenly on Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at the Blenheim Community Village. He was 88. Andy was born in Lednica, Slovakia on November 26, 1924. He immigrated to Canada in 1937 with his parents, Paul and Anna Kluka, grandmother Maria, sister Mary (predeceased), and brother Paul; his sister Anne was later born in Canada. Andy was very proud of his Slovak heritage, and he made multiple return visits to reconnect with family and friends. He had a lifelong passion for music and dancing. As a polka band member, he performed for many events throughout south-western Ontario. Andy spent his life farming in Harwich Township. He loved his farm, and remained active on it well into his 80s. He was proud to be a member of St. Mary’s Parish and the Blenheim community, and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Andrew was a private man. He promoted hard work and excellence, and took great pride in the achievements of his children and grandchildren. Andy is survived by children Cathy (Robert) Cooper of Waterloo and Emil (Dorothy) Keaton of Oshawa; step-children Sherri (Andrew) Melvin of Wallaceburg, Evelyne (Paul) Proctor of Orillia, Edward (Cheryl) Thibeault of Chatham and Randy Thibeault of Sudbury; grandchildren Janice and Lisa Cooper and Timothy Keaton. Andrew is predeceased by Delphine (nee Breynaert; 1928-1967) and their baby daughter Marie (1963). Visitation will be held on Friday, March 29, 2013 from 7:00 - 9:00PM at the McKinlay Funeral Home (141 Park St., Blenheim). Funeral liturgy at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (95 Marlborough N, Blenheim) on Saturday, March 30 10AM. Following cremation, Andy will be laid to rest at the Blenheim Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com, McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street Blenheim, Ontario, 519-676-3451