Obituary for Richard S. Marflak

Richard Steven Marflak, 90, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2015, at Emeritus at Pinnacle Senior Living Center in Grove City. Richard was born January 23, 1925, to the late Albert and Mamie (Sarto) Marflak of Kings Mine, Ohio. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted in the U. S. Navy in June, 1943. He held the rank of Torpedoman 2nd class. He saw action aboard the U.S.S. Intrepid where he sustained injuries during a battle in the South Pacific. Upon recovery from his injuries, he was assigned to the U.S.S. Norris (DD 859) and finally to the U.S.S. Thomas J. Gary (DE 326). Upon his return to the United States, he married Bonnie Ankrom of Lore City, Ohio. He attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Richard worked as a conductor, yard master and other positions for the New York Central, Pennsylvania, Penn Central and Conrail railroads until his retirement. He was a member of the National Association of Retired and Veteran Railway Employees, AMVETS and VFW. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years Bonnie Lou, sister Martha Rhodes, sister and brother-in-law Charlene and Glen Morris and brother Roderick (Gene) Marflak. Survived by daughter Joyce (Steve) Hunter, son Richard A. Marflak, grand-son Shawn (Tisha) Hunter, grand-daughter Heather (Nathan) Arnold, great-grand-daughters Eryn and Riley Hunter and great-grandson Wyatt Arnold. Special nephew Ken (Carol) Morgan, special niece Janet Hatcher and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews. Richard was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church, Westerville. He was very active in the Knights of Columbus and assisted in numerous events and activities. He was a Grand Knight of the Fourth Degree, Assembly No. 809. The family would like to extend special “Thanks and Appreciation” to the staffs of Emeritus Senior Living in Grove City and Gentiva Hospice of Gahanna for the excellent, compassionate and caring assistance afforded to Richard. The family will receive friends HILL FUNERAL HOME, 220 S. State St., Westerville, Ohio, on Thursday, February 12, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. A prayer service will be held at 7:00. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 313 N. State St., Westerville at 10:30 A.M. Friday. Rev. Fr. David Gwinner Celebrant. Internment at Resurrection Cemetery, In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Gentiva Hospice, 540 Officenter Pl., Suite 100, Gahanna, Ohio 43230.