John M. Tolich Sr.

February 18, 2017

John M "Pops" Tolich, Sr. John was born December 8, 1923 to Pavo "Paul" Tolic and Riza "Rose" (Vrljicak) Tolic in Struthers, Ohio. He grew up in Lowellville and Struthers, Ohio graduating from Struthers High School in 1941. He worked in the steel mills of Youngstown before joining the Navy in 1943. He served his country aboard the USS Herndon, seeing action in various parts of the world before the ultimate battle of D Day at Normandy. After returning from WWII he married Margaret Datko July 26,1947. They made their home in Poland, Ohio where they had 3 children, Paula, John Jr and Robert. Pops was active in the labor unions of the steelworkers. When he refused to compromise his core values for political gain he was blacklisted forcing a cross country move to California in 1962. In 1963 a daughter Lisa was born. Pops was employed at a few steel mills and fabrication shops until the late 70's when he owned "The Hot Spot" in Fontana. He returned to structural steel and fabrication owning his own shop in south Fontana. He retired in 1988. After Margaret retired in 1991 they moved to Apple Valley, CA. They were married 66 years. Pops is survived by 4 children Paula Gorgei, John Tolich Jr, Robert (Kathy) Tolich, Lisa (David) Burkart with whom he lived the last 3 years, 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret in 2013, his parents and siblings Peter Tolich and Ann Meek. Pops was fun loving and a flirt to the end and will be dearly missed. Until we meet again Pops! Military inurnment will take place 1pm May 8th, 2017 at Riverside National Cemetery. A private family memorial has already been held.