Ted Workman

Ted Workman, age 81, passed away Sunday, November 3, 2024, with his beloved wife by his side.
Devoted husband of nearly 40 years of Edna (nee Dean); beloved father of Robert Karlowicz (deceased), Cathy Lutizio, John Karlowicz (deceased), and Kelley Bowling; cherished grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather; dearest son of the late Arnold and Arizona (nee Donley); loving brother of Darroll (Pat), Shirley Trafser (deceased), Jerry (Loretta, deceased), and Linda Thacker (Rudy, deceased); and dearest uncle of numerous nieces and nephews.
Ted was a veteran of the United States Navy and served off the shores of Cuba during the pivotal time in US history when the US was on the brink of war with not only Cuba, but Russia as well. He later served as a civilian advisor during the Vietnam War. His pride in the military and his own service continued on as he became a lifetime member of the VFW in both Port Clinton and Parma.
He spent a large part of his life on the road, as he proudly drove a truck for over 32 years! When he wasn't driving, he and his wife enjoyed spending as much time as possible at their trailer at The Fountains in Port Clinton. There were very much a part of the community there as he was not only a member of the VFW, but also the Eagles Club. He was also a member of the Seven Hills Moose
In addition to spending time at Port Clinton, Ted loved to relax by reading! He was truly an avid reader and was an especially great fan of Louis L'Amour's books, but he also never missed the Plain Dealer! He would read it every day, cover to cover, and only in print, as he loved the feel of the actual paper in his hands. When they discontinued daily delivery, he made sure his family scoured the Old Brooklyn area to find him a copy to fill in the days where it wouldn't be waiting for him in his front yard!
Ted also liked gambling, and there was no place he loved to do that more than in Las Vegas, where he would take his chances on both table games and the slots. When he could no longer travel, he started playing the slots and solitaire on his phone and tablet. He became really proficient and would play for hours!
He had a fun loving side as well, and enjoyed singing karaoke! He would also settle in with his wife, Edna, to watch all the Cleveland sports teams. One of the last evening before he died, they were able to spend the evening watching the Cavaliers win against the Orlando Magic!
He was a role model to many young men in his life, especially those who'd had no one else to fill the important role of a father. Not only his presence in their lives, but his character itself, gave them someone to emulate and have in their corner and guide them when needed.
Although Ted could be funny, he was also high strung and rather blunt at times, and stubborn enough to stand his ground on things that mattered to him. However, he also loved deeply and completely once you were in his heart!
Despite his time on the road and the many things he enjoyed doing, there was nothing more important to him than his family! He treasured them and was loving and generous to them and it showed in many ways! He was loved by all who knew him, especially his family, and will be deeply missed!
Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Busch Funeral Home, 4334 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109.
Funeral service will be Friday, Nov. 8, 2024 at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with burial to follow at Brooklyn Heights Cemetery, Old Brooklyn.
216-741-7700 www.buschcares.com