Steven  P. Vlha, 100, of Lorain passed away on Monday evening, February 20, 2017 at Mercy New Life Hospice at St. Joseph following a brief illness.
     Steven was born in Hazelwood, PA on May 27, 1916, the son of the late Steve Vlha. Moving to Lorain as a youngster, He graduated from Lorain High School in 1934. He was an accomplished clarinet player. Mr. Vlha was one of the youngest members of National Musician's Union, allowing him to travel throughout the US playing with the Patriot Symphonic Band.
     Mr. Vlha was a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lorain.
     He was a US Army veteran serving in Japan during World War II. He also attended Officer's Candidate School and was stationed in Hawaii. During his tour in Hawaii he led his own band.  He was a feature story in Life Magazine, while playing in the band in Hawaii.
     Mr. Vhla was a also a member American Legion Post 30, 65 year member of Black River Masonic Lodge F & AM, Valley Of Cleveland Shriners,  He was honored in Lorain's Memorial Day Parade in 2016, and participated in college Bands both at Lorain County Community College and Oberlin College for more than 4 years.
     Mr. Vlha is  survived by a nieces and nephews, Al Larsen, Jeffrey Jacobson, Jody Anderson, Jill Fousmire, JoEllen King, Malcomb Crosby,  friends and caregivers Mary Vargo and Elizabeth S. Foisy.
     In addition to his father, He was preceded in death by his wife Alice M. (nee Wood) Vlha, son Brian Vlha, brothers and sisters Pete, Nancy, Madlyn, Paul, Frances, John and Vincy.
     Friends may call on Friday, February 24, 2017 from 9:00 am until services at 11:00 am in the Schwartz, Spence, Boyer and Cool Home For Funerals, 1124 W. 5th Street, Lorain, Ohio  44052 with Rev. Jimmy Madsen, officiating.
     Burial will be in the Ridge Hill Memorial Park Amherst Township, Amherst Township.
     You may leave condolences at www.boyercool.com
 

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