On 102nd birthday, Joliet man reunited with brother
By Felix Sarver fsarver@stmedianetwork.com July 14, 2012 7:34PM
Celebrating the 102nd birthday of Tony Ketz at Provena Villa Franciscan are Sharon Grossklaus,his great-niece, and Mary Loucks. Felix Sarver ~ For Sun-Times Media
Updated: August 17, 2012 6:38AM
JOLIET — Reaching the age of 102 wasn’t the only surprise for Tony Ketz on his birthday.
On Friday, Tony was reunited with long-lost brother Pete Ketz at Provena Villa Franciscan, 210 N. Springfield Ave.
Tony’s family had grown so big and busy they were not able to meet despite living in Joliet, said Sharon Grossklaus, his great-niece. Pete is 99 years old and will turn 100 in March.
“He was thrilled to see his brother,” Grossklaus said.
Originally, Grossklaus wanted to take her great-uncle fishing. She decided instead to throw him a birthday party and serve him his favorite dish, Chinese food.
Tony said he felt great turning 102.
“I love everybody here,” Tony said. “I hope everyone is as happy as I am.”
Tony was able to dance a polka for his birthday with a little help from Grossklaus and his niece Mary Loucks. He learned to polka at the Croatian Cultural Club, 1503 Clement St.
Tony lived with Loucks, who along with Grossklaus took care of him daily, before he took up residence at the Provena Villa Franciscan.
“He’s very well-loved by his whole family,” Loucks said.
Tony was born and raised in Joliet. He served in the Army during World War II and was stationed in Jerusalem, Africa and Egypt.
