John F.          Voket, Sr

John F. Voket, Sr, 81, died Thursday, January 27, at the Masonic Healthcare Center in Wallingford, holding the hand of his devoted wife, Mary. He was the father of Newtown Bee reporter John J. Voket.

Born in Waterbury April 1, 1923, and son of the late Joseph and Magdalena Voketaitis of Lithuania, Mr Voket lived most of his life just one block from the house where he was born in the Town Plot section of Waterbury.

Mr Voket was a graduate of Crosby High School and a proud veteran who served in the Army and with the Office of Strategic Services in Okinawa, Japan, during World War II.

After returning to Waterbury following his armed service, and completing business school locally, Mr Voket opened and operated the Robinwood Market on upper West Main Street for many years.

After closing the business, he became a salesperson for Fordham Distributors in Hartford, where he worked in various capacities until his retirement. Upon his retirement, and until his passing, Mr Voket remained actively engaged in attending to the care of his wife, who was disabled with a long-term illness.

Mr Voket was an avid fresh- and saltwater angler for much of his life, and enjoyed participating in bowling leagues for many years at St Joseph’s Church lanes. He was a communicant of that parish for many years, as well as an inactive member of the Oakville VFW Post.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Joseph and Stanley, and a sister, Albina Carey.

He is survived by his wife, son, and a sister, Emma Davinis of Glastonbury. Mr Voket was also survived by his loving grandson, Hunter Joseph Voket of Southbury, as well as by several nieces and nephews.

At his request, there were no services. A memorial service is planned in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care CTVNA by Masonicare, 111 Founders Plaza, Hartford CT 06108.

Beecher and Bennett Funeral Service of Hamden handled arrangements.

The Newtown Bee        February 4, 2005