Libero Kotlar of Rock Creek, Ohio went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on October 18, 2022. Libero was born in Bologna, Italy in 1937. He was raised in Zadar, Yugoslavia (present day Croatia). He emigrated to the United States to escape communism on February 28, 1961.

Libero made friends everywhere he went. He worked tirelessly for his family and friends. He was always his happiest when he could be blessing and serving others.

Libero loved to draw, sing, play the guitar and harmonica. He loved to hunt and fish and taught his children. He was a talented soccer player and coach for his children. He was skilled at bricklaying and woodworking.

Libero retired as a machine builder from Motch and Merryweather Machine Company in Euclid, Ohio in approximately 1999. He was a skilled machine builder, building vertical milling machines. He also traveled across the country servicing and repairing machines.

Libero was born again and baptized in 2012. It was his great joy to be at his home church, Eagleville Bible Church in Rock Creek, Ohio where he served as an usher. Everywhere he went, Libero testified of Jesus' great love for people. He loved wearing his Jesus baseball caps and passing out crocheted crosses.

He was very involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and Celebrate Recovery as a recovering alcoholic. He had been sober for 33 years and was so proud of that.

Libero leaves behind his son, Andre Kotlar and daughter-in-law, Lisa Kotlar (Waley). Son, Mike Kotlar and daughter-in-law, Jenny Kotlar (Chapman). Daughter, Sherri Bartholomew (Kotlar) and son-in-law, Andrew Bartholomew. His daughter, Melinda Kotlar preceded him in death in 1990. Libero also leaves behind friend and ex-wife, Sandra Kotlar. Libero and Sandy were married for 33 years and raised a beautiful family together. His beloved grand children are: Ashley Kotlar, Andrew Kotlar, Kaylynn Kotlar, Amanda Swank (Kotlar), Chelsie Kotlar, Trevor Christian, Tyler Christian, Brandon Christian, Kevin Christian, Emily Christian, and Adilyn Bartholomew. His parents, Andrija and Ana Kotlar preceded him in death. He also leaves behind siblings Slavka Čuška (Kotlar) and Marijo Kotlar. Siblings preceding him in death were Klaudio Kotlar, Mate Kotlar, Ida Tikulin (Kotlar). He also leaves behind his uncle Victorio Čurkovič, they were raised together and were like brothers.

Libero's sudden passing has left a devastating hole in the lives of his family and friends. He will be forever missed and cherished. There is such a joy in knowing he is at peace with his Lord and Savior. We will see you again, Dad.

A memorial service celebrating Libero's life will be held on Monday, October 24, 2022 at Eagleville Bible church, 1981 OH-45, Rock Creek, Ohio 44084. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Eagleville Bible Church, Celebrate Recovery.