Leonard J. Homolya, 55, Decorated Vietnam Veteran

Leonard E. Homolya, age 55, of Amherst, died Saturday November 20, 2004 at the New Life Hospice Center of Saint Joseph; he had been ill since April.

He was born December 18, 1948 in Lorain.

He attended elementary school at Holy Trinity Parish School and Saint John Parochial Day School. He went on to graduate from Admiral King High School as a member of the class of 1968.

Mr. Homolya joined the United States Marine Corps and saw action in Southeast Asia as a Corporal during the Viet 'Nam Conflict. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Viet Nam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, the Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Frame, the Viet Nam Campaign Medal with Device, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Rifle Expert's Badge.

Up until the time of his illness, he was employed as a booth cleaner at Ford Motor Company's Ohio Truck Plant in Avon Lake; his career with the automaker spanned thirty-six years.

A parishioner of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Amherst, he was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed backpacking, travel, fly fishing, hunting, and golf.

Survivors include his wife of thirty-three years; Patricia "Pat" (nee Rigo), a daughter: Robin Homolya of Amherst, a son: Matthew D. Homolya of Lorain, three grandchildren, sisters: Joanne Hudacek and Joanne Green both of Amherst, and. a brother: Kenneth Homolya of Wellington.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Joseph and Clara (nee Hunady) Homolya.

Visitation will be Tuesday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. in the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel - 3224 Broadway - Lorain. Funeral services will be Wednesday beginning at 11:15 in the funeral chapel and will be followed by the celebration of a funeral mass at 12:00 noon in Saint Joseph Catholic Church 200 Saint Joseph Drive – Amherst. The Reverend Lawrence Martello, pastor of the church will officiate. Military honors conducted by officers and member of Louis Paul Proy Chapter # 20 of the Disabled American Veterans will immediately follow the church service.

The family asks you to consider memorials to either New Life Hospice - 5255 North Abbe Road - Elyria, Ohio 44035 or to the Ireland Cancer Center - 41201 Schadden Road - Elyria, Ohio 44035.