Anthony James Mira

Anthony James "Tony" Mira, 92, loving father, “Grandpa”, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor, passed away peacefully in the Ohio Veteran's Home, Sandusky on Sunday, April 15, 2018 with his family by his side.

He was born February 1, 1926 in Bellevue, Ohio to Joseph and Rose (Triona) Mira. His childhood, though lacking in material comforts, was rich with love and a strong family bond.  As a young boy, Tony worked at Pickett’s Cherry Farm to help support his family through the Great Depression of the 1930’s. 

Tony attended Bellevue High School until 1944 when he enlisted in the US Navy.  He proudly served his country in the Asia Pacific Theater during WWII aboard the USS Boston and the LST-614, which were engaged in the battles at Leyte Gulf, and Luzon, Philippines, and Okinawa.  Tony was forever thankful to have survived the great Halsey’s Typhoon of 1944 which claimed the lives of nearly 800 seamen.

Tony made two trips to the National World War II Memorial in Washington D.C., once with his son, James and once with his daughter, Toni Marie on the Honor Flight. 

Following his military service, Tony had a brief, but successful amateur boxing career.  Known as the “Bellevue Slugger”, he won many decisions and scored several knockouts.  He was signed professionally, but due to an injury, his career was cut short.

 Until the age of 55, Tony lived the life of what he called a “bookie, gambler, and high-living wastrel”.  It was then that he met his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and turned his life around.  He became a legitimate business man, opening a furniture store in Bellevue.  He became an active member of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Association.  He loved to tell everyone how much God loves each of us and has made a way of salvation through His Son, Jesus. 

Tony was a life member of the VFW Post 1238; American Legion Post 0046; AMVETS Post OH-0017; the LST/AMPHIBS Association, Ohio Chapter; and the Elks in Rock Island, Illinois.

Tony married Sharon Kay (Martin) on Jan 17, 1970. With their union, Tony received the blessing of three step daughters. Tony and Sharon had a daughter together, Antoinette Marie. Tony lost Sharon when she went to be with "her Jesus" on July 2, 1995. 

Tony enjoyed traveling and along with his special friend and companion of 17 years, Dee Layer of Moline, Illinois, took trips to Maine, Colorado, and Utah.  They spent many winters in Florida, soaking up the sunshine, walking the beach, and visiting with friends.

Tony enjoyed listening to the music of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and dancing to the songs of the Big Band era.

He is survived by his son, James J. (Priscilla "Janie") Mira of Bellevue; daughter, Antoinette “Toni Marie” (Dan) Litten of Bellevue; three step-daughters: Pamela (Jim) Fritz of Bellevue; Charleen (Mike) Wilkin of Clyde; and Darleen (Dave) Garman of Bellevue; three grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; two great-grandsons; 15 step-great-grandchildren; sister, Rosemary Klinski; brothers: Carl (RoseAnna) Mira and Joe (Patti) Mira; and sister-in-law, Dora Mira, all of Bellevue; a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many, many friends.  He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon; his precious grandson, Christian Anthony, at the age of six; a sister, Theresa Mira Anderson; and brothers, Charles "Bates" Mira and James Mira.

Visitation will be 2:00-5:00pm Sunday, April 22, 2018 at the Auxter Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1105 Castalia Street, Bellevue. Additional visitation will be Monday from 10-11am at the church.  His funeral service will be 11:00am Monday, April 23, 2018 at Victory Christian Fellowship, 2051 Oak Harbor Road, Fremont with Revs. Scott and Bryan Robles officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Fremont.

Because of Tony’s love for America and respect for all who have served and are currently serving in the armed forces of our country, the family requests memorial contributions in Tony’s name be sent to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at www.dav.org or PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250-0301.

Tony and his family would like to say thank you to the wonderful staff at the Ohio Veteran’s Home, Stein volunteers, and the Singing Angels, whose loving and professional care helped to ease Tony’s passing.  You are very special people!  Thanks also to all those who visited Tony, said a prayer for him, or spoke a word of encouragement to the family.  Your kindness is appreciated.

Online condolences may be shared at www.auxterfuneralhomes.com 

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