Robert C. Kratofil 1936-2025

He was born July 11, 1936, in New Castle, Pa., a son of Sylvester Kratofil and Mary Klishko Kratofil Allen.

Robert graduated from New Castle Union High School and then worked many years as a steelworker and supervisor at Youngstown Sheet and Tube. After retiring, he took on a new venture as the owner of a locksmith business, Classic Lock & Key.

Robert found great happiness in the great outdoors, especially while hunting and riding bikes with his son. His love for animals was evident in his adoration for his dogs. Gardening was another passion of his and he took pride in growing the most delicious tomatoes.

Robert is survived by his wife, Ida J. (Brownlee) Kratofil, whom he married Dec. 15, 1984; daughter, Kathy Lynn (Ed) Gill of Hubbard; son, Keith Robert (Lori) Kratofil of Tallahasse, Florida; stepdaughter, Patricia (Bob) Hartsough of Austintown; stepson, Bill (Anita) Koch of Austintown; brother, Raymond (Mary) Kratofil of Marianna, Florida; grandchildren, Brittany Kraynak, Matty and Taylor Kratofil; great-granddaughters, Kailyn Kocher and Mariah (Kevin Weider) Johnson; great-great-grandchildren, George and Eleanor Weider; also grandchildren, Raymond (Sarah) Hartsough, Tom (Amy) Hartsough and Paula (Jake) Mims; and great-grandson, Alex Hartsough.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard and Ronald Kratofil; and stepdaughter, Paula Jo Koch.

A funeral service will be celebrated at noon Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave., officiated by Dr. Rev. Marc Shefelton. Calling hours will be held one hour prior to service, beginning at 11 a.m.

This obituary can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.higgins-

reardon.com.

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