Eleanor A. Borthwick (nee Palcic), 86 years old. She was born March 16, 1940, in Lakewood, Ohio. Eleanor was a retired Case Manager at Meridia. She enjoyed spending time with her family and the company of her dinner group. Wife of Donald N. Borthwick. Mother of Thomas (Wendy) Borthwick; daughter-in-law: Kelly Borthwick and son-in-law: George Smith and grandchildren: Ross Borthwick, Jenna (Mike Mosholder) Borthwick, Jillian Borthwick and Maxwell Smith. Preceding Eleanor in death is her daughter: Donna Borthwick, son: Paul Borthwick and parents: Ernest and Ethel Palcic. Family and friends were received at Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home, where a memorial service was also held. 

James B. Gagnon, Jr., 88 years old, passed away Aug. 4, 2026. He was born Feb. 9, 1938, in Cleveland, OH, as the son of the late James, Sr. and Jean (nee Sheppard). Veteran, U.S. Navy. He was employed for 35 years as a pressman. Member, St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Submarine Veterans Association and the International Northeastern Harley-Davidson Dresser and Touring Association. In addition, member of The Retreads, the American Motorcycle Association, and Knights of Columbus Council #5405, 3rd Degree Knight. Husband of Jean (nee Armbruster). Father of James (Mary Jane Fanara), John (Donna), and Jennifer (Ralph) Godic. Grandfather of Tara (Shawn) Lillie, Luke (Brook), Haley (JJ) Luster, Adam (Ashley), Renae (Gavin) Collins, Mitchell, and Nathan Godic, and great-grandfather to Audrey, Theo, Gabriella, and Aiden. Also survived by dear sister, Linda (Bob) Zerby. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Mary Magdalene Church followed by burial with full military honors at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Orlando-Donsante-Previte Funeral Home.

Bogomir John Glavan, age 79, of Hudson, Ohio passed away on September 17th, 2026 in Hudson, Ohio. Born on August 25th, 1947 in Seeboden, Austria to Bogomir (Mirko) and Ludmila (Millie) Glavan, Bog grew up in Cleveland, OH with a love for sports and music, playing the trombone and accordion. He attended St. Edward High School and then John Carroll University. He graduated from The Ohio State College of Medicine and had a dedicated career as a physician in Columbus, Ohio, first as an emergency medical physician and then as an anesthesiologist. He was known by his patients for his dedication and commitment to their care and by colleagues for his drive and innovative spirit. Outside of work, Bog was known for his interest in building and fixing just about anything, and his passion for gardening and woodworking. He was a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather who took particular pleasure in spending time, and sharing his knowledge with his nine grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Rita (Haas), sons Bogomir (wife Rebecca and children, Mirko, Lori, Caroline and Julianne) and Brad (wife Catherine and children, Celine, Luke and Leo), daughter Julie (husband, Frank and children Millie and Morgan), siblings Mary (Joe) Vavpetic, Millie (Harv) McNeeley, Helen (Tony) Vavpetic, and Franc (Laura) Glavan. He was preceded in death by his parents Bogomir and Ludmila. The family received friends Friday September 25, 2026 at Busch-Romito Funeral Home, 99 West Aurora Road, Northfield Center, Ohio.  Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated  Saturday, September 26, 2026 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 340 North Main Street, Hudson, Ohio.

Joseph “Joe” Hancin, 78 years old, passed away Sept. 30, 2026. He was born on Dec. 22, 1947, to the late Joseph and Josephine Hancin. Joe dedicated many years as a commercial food manager for local grocery stores, retiring member of UFCW Local 880. Volunteer firefighter for Northfield Center Fire Dept. Husband of Diane Hancin. Father of John Hancin, Tracy Robinson, Rachel Kaplan, and Kimberly Hancin; stepfather, Renee Mooney (Dan), Heather Bucy (Doug), Megan Gravens (Brett), and Doug Forcht; 16 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Final funeral services were held at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home. 

Raymond Joseph Kolenz, 90 years old, passed away Sept. 18, 2026. Raymond was born on Feb. 17, 1936 in Cleveland, Ohio, son of Joseph and Ruth Kolenz. Husband of Linda (nee Wroblewski). Father of Lynn (Greg) Muniak, Pattie (Keith) Tucker, Alan (Laurie), Kim (Tom) Tenhagen, Leslie (John) Malvic, Mike (Mary Kay), Scott (Kathy), and Brad. Grandfather of 24 grandchildren and the great-grandfather of 30 1/2 great-grandchildren. Also survived by his brother Jack (Marlene, deceased) Kolenz. Also predeceased by siblings Jim (Mary Ann), Ron (Ruth), and Janice Keating (Frank). Veteran, U.S. Army. After honorable discharge, he dedicated his career to the East Ohio Gas Company, where he worked as a respected supervisor. A founding member of the Saint Vincent DePaul Society, St. Charles Borromeo Parish. at St. Charles. Also taught special needs PSR and volunteered with Friends Forever. Family and friends were received one hour prior to funeral Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Church, followed by private interment. All arrangements entrusted to Fortuna Funeral Home. 

John R. Kovelan, 95 years old, passed away Aug. 25, 2026. John was born and raised in the St. Clair Avenue neighborhood. He was of Polish and Slovenian descent. Son of the late John and Mary (nee Urbas) Jasko, stepson of Paul Kovelan, and brother of Paulette Kovelan. John had a strong work ethic, shining shoes along St. Clair, setting bowling pins, and driving a Packard flower car for the Joseph Konys Funeral Home during his high school years. He graduated from Cathedral Latin School in 1949 where he lettered in football. John went on to earn his degree from Ohio University in 1954. He continued his education studying the Russian language at Fordham University and Middlebury College, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in international affairs and intelligence. Veteran, a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force with the 26th Air Defense Division. After completing Jet Aircraft Controller School, he earned the rank of Captain in the USAF Reserves. From 1956 to 1962, John served with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Washington, D.C., as a missile analyst evaluating Soviet technical data, contributing to national intelligence reports, and teaching Russian to agency staff. In the private sector, John evaluated the Soviet Space Program for Goodyear Aerospace and taught evening Russian at the University of Akron. While at Cooper Bessemer, he supervised the first U.S.–USSR technology transfer agreement for natural gas compressors, earning top honors at the Nefta-Gaz exhibition in Moscow. In 1974, as Director of Pullman Warsaw, he became the first American to establish a U.S. commercial office in Communist Poland, overseeing major foundry projects. He later served as International Business Manager, Government Contracts Manager, and Manager of Electrode Technology for Diamond Shamrock, traveling across Europe, Asia, and Russia. John then joined Morrison Knudsen Co. and was stationed in Ukraine to coordinate the dismantling and salvaging of 54 ICBM silos. John mastered Russian, Polish, and Slovenian, and engaged in extraordinary diplomatic and high-profile encounters with figures such as Mother Teresa, Polish Foreign Ministers, Ambassadors, Congressman Leo Ryan, and former astronaut Jim McDivitt. John was a Eucharistic minister for 40 years, past president of the Holy Name and Nocturnal Adoration Societies, and President, Holmes Avenue Pensioners, where he was named Man of the Year by the Holmes Avenue SNH Board of Directors. He owned Pizza Bazaar in Northfield and Kent, was a youth coach at Holy Family in Stow. Husband of Betty (nee Sittinger). Father of Denise (Angelo) Marrali, John (Jan), Sharon (Jim) Settecase, Christopher, Edward (Dana), Matthew (Kristine), and the late Stephen. Brother of Paulette Kovelan. Grandfather of 12 and great-grandfather of four. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John of the Cross Church. 

Rudy Krajcar, 93 years old, passed away, Gault Inpatient Pavilion Hospice, Wooster, Ohio.  Rudy was born on Sept. 22, 1933, in Slovenia. In his younger years, he loved gardening and took great pride in the large vegetable garden he tended in the backyard of his home on Schenley Avenue. Preceded in death by his wife, Grace Krajcar. Survived by his children, Maria Christopher (Al), Delia Cianci (Gabe), Joe Krajcar, and Lisa Baird (Bob); his grandchildren, Jennie Christopher, Mike Christopher, Lauren Thomas, Matt Krajcar, Kenny Cianci, and Joey Georgian; and six great-grandchildren. Funeral Mass of Chirstian Burial was at St. Gabriel Church with private viewing one hour prior to the funeral Mass. Interment was at Mentor Cemetery. All arrangements entrusted to Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home. 

Mary (Marie, Mici) Vlasič Kranjec, 90, passed on March 30,2026 in Green Bay Wisconsin.  She was the fourth child of Matiija and Angela Vlasic of Kraška Vas (near Brezice) Slovenia, where she was born. During World War 2 the family was forced to leave their home by the Nazis and were put on cattle train cars to Germany, where they worked on beet farms in Muddersheim, Germany.  After liberation they lived in many displaced persons camps and were eventually sponsored by Catholic Charities to emigrate to America. They arrived in New York in November, 1950.  Cousin Luis Dolmovic provided the family help with housing and employment in Chicago. Father Fortunat of St. Mary’s Slovenian Mission in Lemont, Illinois was also of great help to the family at this time. Mary married fellow Slovenian, Bogomil Kranjec on June 29,1957 at St. Stephen’s Slovenian Church in Chicago.  They were blessed with two children, Cynthia (Kranjec) Ketter of Green Bay WI and John Kranjec of Perrysburg OH. She had four grand children.  She is survived by two siblings, Angela (Vlasic) Balaker of Carlsbad, CA and Vince Vlasic of Thousand Oaks, CA. Mary loved her Slovenian heritage and enjoyed dancing and singing, especially the Smarnice at St. Mary’s Mission .  She was very proud of the 3 motels she and Bogomil owned, especially the Travel Inn in northern Indiana. She will be remembered and missed by all who knew her. 

Stanley “Stan” Krevh, 68 years old. Husband of Jan (nee Hammer). Father of Cassie Badea (Matt), Luke (Ellie), Joe (Sarah) and Alyse Brodhead (Owen). Grandfather of nine. Son of Anna (nee Voje) Champa-Krevh (Tony) and the late Stanley. Sibling of Annie and Erik (Mary Ann). Uncle to many. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Casimir Church, Neff Rd, where the family and friends were received one hour prior to the funeral Mass. Private interment. All arrangements handled by Murphy Funeral Home.  

Ron “Corky” Majnarich, 63 years old, passed away Sept. 14, 2026. He was born on May 7, 1963, son of the late Sandra and Frank Majnarich. He was a gifted and natural artist, he expressed his creativity through his artwork and his music, often found playing the guitar with genuine talent and passion. Brother of Frank Majnarich, Daniel (Julie) Majnarich, and Joanne (John) Pecic. Nephew of Ronald (Patricia) Kendzierski. Uncle of Katarina (Eric) Zeitz, Erica (David) Collins, Adriana Pecic, Danny (Jessica) Majnarich, Jake Majnarich, Joey Majnarich, and Jamie Majnarich; and great-uncle of Lincoln and Peyton. Family and friends were received at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, where a final service was also held.

Gerald J. “Mavo” Milavec, 81 years old, passed away Sept. 17, 2026. Mavo was born June 27, 1945. Veteran, U.S. Navy.  He spent his working years serving his community as a firefighter for the City of Euclid. After retiring from the fire department, he remained close with many of his fire buddies, enjoying their friendship and the stories and good times they shared over the years. Mavo graduated from St. Joseph High School, Class of 1963. He played the drums for 60 years. He especially enjoyed Polka music and never seemed to tire of a good beat. Husband of Darlene D. (nee Dietz) Milavec. Father of Sherry L. (Matthew) Quinn and Teresa M. Biondolillo. Grandfather of Matthew Jr., Gianna and Nicholas; and great-grandfather of Ellanor and Fiona Quinn. Brother of Susan Faint. Preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth (nee Shadi) Milavec; and father-in-law, Robert “Buzz” Dietz. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Ss. Robert & William Church followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Homes.

Thomas Michael Ogrin, 74 years old. He was born on Oct. 17, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, son of the late Irma Eileen (Mariano) and Valentine Joseph Ogrin. Tom was a 1969 graduate of Collinwood High School. For the past twenty years, Tom along with his son Michael ran Claridon Resale Cars of East Claridon. Also preceded in death by his infant daughter, Lilly Josephine Ogrin. Survivors include his two sons, Michael D. Ogrin and James V. Ogrin; his two brothers, James V. Ogrin and John Ogrin; his long-time partner, Linda Dlugoz and many cousins and friends. Member, Lodge #9 AMLA. Visitation and final services held at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home. 

Allen J. Pannetta, 83 years old. Husband of Rita M. Pannetta. Father to Allen (Denise) Pannetta Jr., Enrico (Sheila) Pannetta, and stepdaughter Debbie Barchevski. Grandfather to Robert Pannetta, Amanda Schmidt, and Fiona Schmidt, Christopher Zurrilla, and great-grandfather to Kayden Pannetta. Preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Christine (nee Capretta) Pannetta and his brother Peter Pannetta Sr. Veteran, U.S. Navy. Member, Lodge #9 AMLA.  Employed for many years at Conrail. He then retired but became the owner of A & R Leather Company. Family and friends were received at McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home with final prayer service and final burial at Ohio Western Reserve with full military honors. 

Mildred A. Princic (née Pekol), 96 years old,  passed away Oct. 9, 2026. Wife of the late Richard. Mother of Michael (Rosemary) and Patricia Gerson. Grandmother of Gina (Michael) Fletcher and Gary (Shania) Gerson; and great-grandmother of Nick, Magdalene, Annabelle, and Addison Fletcher. Sibling of the late Anthony Pekol, Stanley (Barbara) Pekol, and Justine Pekol. Member, St. Mary Magdalene Parish. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St, Mary Magdalene Church followed by interment at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Brickman Bros. Funeral Home, 37433 Euclid Avenue, Willoughby.

Anthony G. “Tony” Pucell, MD, 82 years old, passed away Sept. 16, 2026. Husband of Maureen (nee Flanagan). Father of Tony (Christina), Mary Ann Petek (Doug), Emily Czarnota (Benjamin) and Karen Dittman (Ryan). Grandfather of Maddie Pucell, Grace Petek, Freddie and Lizzie Czarnota, Norah, Harper, Caleb and Anna Dittman. Son of the late Anthony M. and Mary A. (nee Globokar). Brother of the late Mary Kobrick (George, deceased), late Elaine Smoleny (George, deceased), the late Margie Perko (Joseph, deceased). Brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle and friend of many. Tony was born Nov. 5, 1943. He graduated from Benedictine High School in 1961, earned his undergraduate degree from John Carroll University and completed his medical degree at St. Louis University. He then practiced as a pediatrician for many years. He was a proud Slovenian and enjoyed telling stories of his youth in “the old St. Clair Avenue neighborhood.” He was the first member of his family to attend college. Following his retirement, Tony engaged in tinkering, carpentry, fixing anything around the house that needed it, and small engine repair. An avid reader and a life-long learner. At the request of the family, donations may be made in memory of Tony to the charity of your choice. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Clare Church, with cremation following by DeJohn Crematory, private burial at Mentor Cemetery. Family and friends were received at DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funearl Home, Chardon Road. 

Bonita Quagliata (née Stefancic), 84 years old, passed away Sept. 14, 2026. Former spouse of John Quagliata. Mother of Angelo Quagliata and Antoinette (Toni) Quagliata (Kevin Karwowski). Daughter of Caroline (nee Kosoglov) and Anthony Stefancic (both deceased). Cousin to the Anthony (deceased) and Mary Kosoglov family along with many extended family members and dear friends. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St Mary of the Assumption Church, Holmes Ave, followed by entombment at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Fioritto Funeral Home.

Anne F. Ray, 96 years old. Anne was born Oct. 18, 1929 as the daughter of the late Elsa Kulow and William Frieden. She graduated in 1948, Collinwood High School, Cleveland, Ohio. Wife of the late Cosmos D. Ray. She worked together with her husband as a licensed Insurance Agent. Member, Lodge #67 AMLA, The Anita Garibaldi Lodge, Catholic Daughters, Altar & Rosary Society, Our Lady of Peace Choir, a Hospital Volunteer, a Board of Elections Precinct Election Official, Member of the Senior Center and Happy Travelers, and a Catholic Education Teacher. Mother of Irene Lane, Steven Ray, Kathleen Ray, Cosmos Ray Jr (Priscilla), Christina (Bill) Zetlaw, Daniel (Carol) Ray, Nicholas (Dana) Ray. Grandmother of 21. Great-grandmother of 37 and great-great-grandmother of 11. Also preceded in death by son James Ray, daughter Debra Ray, Grandchildren Debra Hodginson, James Ray, Seana Warta-Ray. Family and friends were received at Guerriero Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Our Lady of Peace (Mt. Carmel) Church (Ashtabula). 

Hedvika “Heda” Sfiligoj (nee Bavdek), 98 years old. Wife of the late Marko. Mother of Mark (Laura), Martin (Kathy) and Antony ( Jeannie). Grandmother of Michael, Heidi O’Leary (Daniel), Kayla Kosley (Timmy), Lia (Sean Quinn), Maria and Marko; and great-grandmother of Richard, Charles, Penelope, Nathan, Nicholas and OakLee. Daughter of the late Leopold and Antonia (nee Hiti) Bavdek. Sister of Judita Nared and the late Leopold and Bojan. Aunt and great-aunt to many in the United States and Slovenia. At the request of the family, donations may be made to Benedictine High School, Cleveland, Ohio. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, South Euclid, OH., followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home, South Euclid, OH. Wr. Note: Heda and Marko were heavily involved in the founding of St. Vitus Saturday Slovenian School as well as Slovenska Pristava. 

Sharon R. Staiduhar (nee Niland), 84 years old, passed away Sept. 25, 2026. Sharon was born Sept. 4, 1942, in Cleveland, OH. Sharon served on the Board of Directors for the American Slovenian Polka Foundation/Polka Hall of Fame, where she organized many dances and fundraisers for the organization. Member, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish. Wife of George. Mother of Robyn (Matt) Malaney and stepmother of Tracy (Tim) Broll; stepmother-in-law of Shari Staiduhar; grandmother of Brennan, Evan and Owen Malaney and Colton Staiduhar; daughter of the late George and Rose (nee Cerri) Niland; and sister of Patrick (Donna) Niland and Michael (Cheryl) Niland. Aunt to many. Preceded in death by her parents, George and Rose (nee Cerri) Niland; son, Kevin Lovenduski and her stepson, Scott Staiduhar. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Orlando-Donsante-Previte Funeral Home. 

Ashley Jeanne Tomsic (nee Rodrick), 40 years old, passed away at Reserve Care Hospice. Ashley was a graduate of Aurora High School in Aurora, Ohio, and later earned her bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, Ohio. After college, she earned her cosmetology license at the Brown Aveda Institute. Wife of Peter Tomsic. Mother of Adalynn Tomsic. Daughter of Gary and Jill Rodrick. Sibling of Austin (Megan) Rodrick and Gretchen (Jim) Tomsic. Preceded in death by her grandparents, David and Jeanne Woodring and Robert and Gladys Rodrick. All arrangements entrusted to Jakubs Funeral Home. 

Antonia “Toncka” Urankar (nee Gosar), 100 years old, passed away Sept. 20, 2026. Wife of the late Frank. Mother of Ann Marie Luzar (Ernest, deceased), Joe (Sue), Toni Robinette (James) and the late Frank (Deborah). Grandmother of Ernest Luzar IV (Jennifer Perry), Angela Luzar (deceased), Alex Urankar (Elizabeth), Greg Urankar (Jen), James Robinette Jr (Melissa), Katie Nutter (Matt), Kristy Rolf (Randy), Brian Mannello and great-grandmother of 18. Daughter of the late Lojze and Anna (nee Oven) Gosar. Sister of the late Mary Vrhovnik (Vinko, deceased), Lojze Gosar and Ivanka Gosar. Aunt and great-aunt of many. Antonia was born Jan. 16, 1926 in Dobrova pri Ljubljani, Slovenia. She emigrated to the USA in 1948.  She was employed as a circuit board inspector at Allen Bradley, but her true love was as a dedicated homemaker to Frank and their four children. She found joy in cooking and baking. She loved to travel to Florida and back home to Slovenia. Her hobbies were gardening, knitting, crocheting, singing, dancing and playing bocce ball. Member, St. Mary The Assumption Parish, St. Mary’s Altar Society, Catholic Mission Aid, Slovenska Prisatava and Pensioners Club, KSKJLife, and former member, Slovenian American Council. She was a hard-working, strong willed, friendly, and social person with a great sense of humor. Her devotion to her family and faith defined who she was and will stand as her legacy to all who knew her. At the request of the family, donations may be made to St. Mary The Assumption Church, 15519 Holmes Ave., Clev. 44110. Or Reserve Care (formerly Hospice of the Western Reserve). Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Mary The Assumption Church followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Zevnik-Cosic Funeral Home, Chardon Road.

Marija Zakelj (nee Oblak), 99 years old, passed away Sept. 21, 2026. Wife of the late Pavel. Mother of Ann Zitko (Frank), Paul (Kathleen), Stan (Lois), Tony (Melissa), John (Rachel) and Vinko. Grandmother “stara mama” of Frankie Zitko (Kathryn), Mary Finotti (Frank), Lizza Zakelj, Christopher Zakelj, Tricia Regan (Patrick), Mike Zakelj (Rachel), Meghan, Joe, Audrey, Matthew (Monica), Nicholas, Amanda, Jack, Anna, Ian, and Ruth Zakelj, and Taylor Hammer and “prastara mama” great-grandmother of Matthew, Calvin, Mason, and Madison. Daughter of the late Anton and Marija (nee Rigler) Oblak. Sister of France, Tinca, Bogomir and the late Stanko, Vinko, Anton, Lojze, and Viktor. Aunt and great-aunt of many. Marija was born on Nov. 28, 1926, in the village of Graben within the Dolenjska region of Slovenia. In May 1945, she and her family left their homeland as post-communist war refugees, traveling first to Viktring and later to Spittal an der Drau in Austria. Seeking a new beginning, Marija and her brother, Anton Oblak, embarked on a 12-day journey across the Atlantic on a cargo ship, arriving in New York City on May 18, 1949. From there, they took a train to Cleveland, Ohio, settling in the St. Clair neighborhood. It was here that she married her husband, Pavel, on February 23, 1957, and together they raised six children. Although she was employed at Dill Factory in Cleveland from 1949 to 1957, Marija truly relished her role as a homemaker dedicated to Pavel and their family. She found joy in cooking and baking for loved ones and enjoyed reading until failing eyesight made it difficult. Dedicated member of St. Vitus Church, the St. Vitus Altar and Rosary Society, the St. Vitus Mother’s Club, Legion of Mary, KSKJ (Christ The King) #226 and the Slovenska Pristava Pensioners. Following Pavel’s passing on February 17, 1993, Marija lived in Euclid until 2001, eventually returning to the St. Clair neighborhood to settle at St. Vitus Village. Surrounded by loving and supportive friends, she maintained her independence at The Village until December 2018. In February 2019, she transitioned to her new home at the Slovenian Home for the Aged and received excellent care from all staff as well as from Reserve Care. Throughout her life, Marija’s greatest happiness came from visiting with her grandchildren, feeding her family, gathering to celebrate birthdays and holidays, and praying the rosary. She treasured the strong connections she built with friends at The Village, where she loved socializing and attending Mass. Marija will always be remembered as a selfless, generous woman who deeply loved her family. She had an inspiring ability to adapt to every change life brought her; she maintained a warm disposition and leaned on her faith for strength and guidance. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Vitus Church followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at Zevnik-Cosic Funeral Home, Chardon Road. At the request of the family, donations may be sent to St. Vitus Endowment Trust, c/o 6019 Lausche Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103. Wr. Note: Marija was one of the first residents at St. Vitus Village, joining her brother, Anton and Vida, there. A wonderful and kind individual. Pocivaj v miru!    

Anna L. Zorko (nee Korb), 78 years old, passed away Oct. 4, 2026. She was born Apr. 3, 1948 to the late Joseph and Matilda Korb. Anna worked at Kmart in Eastlake for over 20 years and retired from Giant Eagle in Mentor on the Lake. She was known in her neighborhood as the “Kool Aid Mom.” She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and ceramics. Member, Lakeshore Live Steamers, Mentor Senior Center, and taking trips to Las Vegas, The Great Smokey Mountains, and Kentucky. Wife of Paul J. Zorko. Mother of Jennifer Zorko and Anthony (Amiee) Zorko. Grandmother of Ryan Zorko and Madeline Zorko. Sister of Joseph Korb and James Korb. Aunt to many. Family and friends were received at Jeff Monreal Funeral Home, where a funeral service will be held. A private burial will be held at Willoughby Memorial Gardens. All arrangements were entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Home. 

John J. Zivich, 77 years old, passed away Sept. 21, 2026. Husband to Maryellen (nee Palechka). Father to Adam John and Mark Andrew (Katie). Grandfather of Isaiah John, Zachary Paul, Gabriel John, and Andrew James. Brother to Patricia Zivich, Christine Szabo (Michael), Judith “Judy” Monaco (Rick), and Paul Zivich (Barbara). Uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend to many. Preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Ruth Zivich, and his sister Mary Zivich. Veteran, U.S. Navy. After honorable discharge, John started a roofing business which he ran for over 50 years. He exemplified generosity and was always willing to help a friend, employee, or family member. John enjoyed hunting, fishing, work, horse racing, and time with family, but his pride and joy were his four grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by many. Family and friends were received at Ferfolia Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, followed by interment at All Saints Cemetery.

NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL 

Mariano Amisich, 91 years old, passed away Sept. 18, 2026. Mario was born in Corte d’Isola, Italy (now Slovenia) on Oct. 13, 1934, third child of the late Giovanni and Giovanna (nee Hrvatin) Amisich. Husband of Nerina (nee Zimmerman). Son-in-law of the late Francesco and Rosa Zimmerman. Father of Claudio (Joanna), and Susan (Mike Legue). Grandfather of Curtis (Eve), Christopher (Jennifer) and Katrina; and great-grandfather of Zyler and Isla. Sibling of Giovanni (Dalia), Trieste, Italy, Maria (Mario) of Izola, Slovenia, and brother and sister-in-law Mario and Yolanda Zimmerman of Parecag, Slovenia. Mario immigrated to Canada in 1959. He was an apprentice in masonry as a teenager; he laid out the building blocks for many structures in his homeland, and here in the Essex, Chatham-Kent area. His work life eventually concluded by retiring from Navistar (International Harvister) after 23 years. Family and friends were received at Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Blessed Sacrament Church, followed by burial at St. Anthony’s Cemetery. Donations to the Charity of One’s Choice would be appreciated.

Laverne Cecilia Gray, 92 years old. A San Francisco native, she was born July 17, 1934 to the late Catherine and Frank A. Marty and grew up in a large extended family of Swiss and Slovenian immigrants. She graduated from Lowell High School, Class of 1952, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and teaching credential at San Francisco State University. She taught in Catholic grammar schools for over 30 years in San Francisco and on the Peninsula, including Epiphany, St. Robert’s, St. Thomas Moore, St. Catherine’s and All Souls. Wife of the late Robert (Bob) Gray. Mother of Keith (Brian), Kathy (Jim), Mark (Paula) and Tom (Donna), four grandsons and a large circle of family and friends. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Robert’s Church, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Agnes Glavich, 95 years old. Agnes was born Oct. 5, 1929 in Walsenburg, CO., passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026.  She was preceded in death by her husband Matthew (Beba); son-in-law, Bob Warmack; and granddaughter Nesha Falletta. Survived by her daughters Diane (Chuck) Slaten, Susan Warmack, Carol (Steve) Chavez, and Marian (Tim) Pechek; seven grandchildren and their spouses; and nine great-grandchildren. Also survived by her brother, Anthony (Florence) Grande. Member of St. Mary Help of Christians Parish (Slovenian parish in Pueblo, CO.). Member and past officer KSKJ Branch 104, Slovenian Union of America Branch 3, and St. Jacob’s Lodge. A founding committee member, Holy Mary Mother of God Prayer Garden at St. Mary’s Church. Agnes was a talented baker, earning numerous ribbons at the Colorado State Fair for her pies, cakes, and homemade noodles. All services were held at St. Mary Help of Christians Church, followed by Funeral Mass of Christian Burial and then interment at Roselawn Cemetery.

Rosemary Kastner (nee Kastelic), 91 years old. Rosemary was born July 12, 1935 and passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, at the age of 91. A proud Slovenian American. Wife of the late Arthur “Art” Kastner. Mother of Kathlyn (Gerald) Slater, Karin (Richard) Gale, Kristine (Steven) Borkenhagen, and Karl (Kristen) Kastner. Grandmother of Zachary (Kelsey) and Eric (Silvia) Slater, Anne Gale, Sara (Robert) Huston, Joseph (Anna Behrens) Borkenhagen, and Kendall (Steven Schinkal) and Kaiser Kastner; great-grandmother of Charles and Katherine Huston. She was a gifted homemaker, gardener, cook and baker. She learned traditional Slovenian recipes and skills from her mother, including crocheting, sewing, gardening and cooking. Longtime partner in the Kastner Agency insurance business, which Art founded in West Allis in 1954. What began as a secretarial career became four decades of helping build and operate the family business from their home. The Kastner Agency legacy continued through the next generation.

Joseph Antonne Kump, 87 years old, Butte, MT., passed away on Aug. 14, 2026. He was born on Apr. 11, 1939, in Butte to Joseph and Emily Kump, of Slovenian immigrants. Joe attended Sacred Heart Elementary School and graduated from Butte Central Boys High School in 1957. After graduation, Joe moved to Great Falls, Montana, where he worked in construction before enlisting in the Marine Reserve at Camp Pendleton in 1959. After honorable discharge, he returned to Butte, employed with Louis Cohn Company. Husband of Carol (nee Kochevar). Father of Joe (Melissa), Ron (Karley), Mike (Kari), and Amy (Josh) Aylesworth; and his grandchildren, Daniel and Henry Harrington, Hunter and Quinn Kump, Tyler, Tanner and Maddi Kump, and Ben, Grace and Addison Aylesworth. Siblings, Gary Kump, Dave Kump, Robert (Lynda) Kump, Leah (Jack) McCarthy, John (Teri) Kump, Julie (Steve) Walsh, Karen (Steve) Workman, Mark (Anita) Kump, and numerous nieces and nephews. Joe later worked at the Safeway Warehouse and concluded his working career with the United States Postal Service in 2001. Joe was very proud of his Slovenian heritage. One of his treasured memories was traveling back to Slovenia with his brothers and sisters, where he was able to see where his father grew up and meet many of his relatives. He was the oldest of 10 children. Also preceded in death by his in-laws, Joseph and Frances Kochevar; his sister and brother-in-law, Janet and Chaun Cadwell; and his brother- and sister-in-law, Edward and Beverly.

Milena Maria Leonardy, 23 years old, passed away Sept. 27, 2026 in Joliet, IL. Milena spent her days caring for her patients at the hospital with patience that came naturally to her. Big sister to Danielle and Emilia. She was deeply involved at the Slovenian Catholic Center (the Dom) in Lemont, IL., Member, Slovenska Mladinska Skupina Marela. Daughter of David and Pamela (nee Lodewyck) Leonardy. Sibling of Danielle and Emilia. Granddaughter of Pamela Black; and staramama, Neza (nee Markun) Lodewyck. Best friend and girlfriend of Jacob Doll; and all who were lucky enough to be loved by her. Preceded in death by her grandfather, William G Lodewyck; great-grandparents, Florian and Maria Markun; and step-grandfather, Gary Black. Family and friends were received at Tezak Funeral Home, Joliet, IL. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Mary’s Slovenian Catholic Mission, Lemont, IL, followed by burial at St. Joseph Cemetery. 

Milka Mladen, 92 years old, passed away Oct. 6, 2026. Milka was born Feb. 27, 1934, in Otok, Slovenia as the daughter of the late Matyja and Katarina Pezdirc. Mother of Fred Mladen (Mary Dillon) and Zoran Mladenovic (Kristi); her two grandchildren Samantha Mladen (Jess Martin) and Zander Mladenovic. Sibling of Stane Pezdirc; and a large extended family in Slovenia. After moving from Slovenia to West Germany, then to Canada, and then to Mechanicsville, VA, Milka worked as a talented seamstress for various retailers in Richmond including Montaldo’s, Berry Burke, Thalhimers, and Franco’s Fine Clothier. She found great joy in sewing, gardening, and cooking. Her family remembers fondly the special clothing she made and meals she prepared, often using ingredients from her garden and following recipes from Slovenia. Family and friends received the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, where final services were also held.

Joseph S. Musick, 100 years old.  Husband of Virginia (nee Taylor, deceased). Joe was born on Feb. 17, 1925, in Waukegan, IL., son of Slovenian immigrants, Frank and Jennie (nee Jeraj) Music. Joe was the youngest of seven siblings: Frank, Al, Bill, Jean, Millie, and Fran. After graduating high school, Joe enlisted in June 1943, in the US Marine Corps. He was assigned to the 4th Marine Division and served during WWII fighting in the Pacific theater. He was injured on Iwo Jima beach. After honorary discharge, he joined the Waukegan Fire Department. Joe was the recipient of the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and WWII Victory Medal. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant in the fire department and retired in 1978. Father of Cheryl (deceased), Judi (Michael) Dulson and Wendy (Michael) McBride. Member, St. Mary of the Annunciation Parish. Visitation was at St. Mary of the Annunciation Church, followed by Funeral Mass and interment, St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.

Margaret “Marge” Loretta Nuttall, (nee Bratkovic), 94 years old, passed away in Aurora. CO. Marge was born in Kansas City, Kansas, Nov. 25, 1931, as the daughter of Slovenian immigrants, the late Frank and Antonia (nee Luzar) Bratkovic. She attended St. Anthony’s School. When Marge was seven, her father died, and her older sister, Eleanor, left school to help support the family. When their mother died from cancer when Marge was 15, she first lived with her brother Carl in Annapolis, MD., then with her brother Al in Bremerton and Seattle, WA., before joining Eleanor in Kit Carson, Colorado, where she completed high school. Marge attended school, Lamar Junior College, to become a secretary. Wife of former husband, Gordon. Marge returned to college to take classes in music. When she learned she was only a few classes away from an associate degree, she decided to finish it. She eventually received a teaching certificate from Metropolitan State College, a master’s degree, and a 20-year career teaching music. She worked in Littleton Public Schools, including 16 years at Franklin Elementary School. A Funeral Mass was at Our Lady of Loreto Church. Mother of Lisa (Michael) Kraft, Gail (Joe) Sindelar, Gordon (Karen) Nuttall, Dana (Michael) Kelleher, Kerry (Craig) Dehning, and Monica (Jerry) Boyd; 17 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

Martin Wayne Pavelek, “Marty”, 82 years old, passed away after a lengthy and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was a manager at A&P Foods, a welder and line supervisor at Caterpillar Tractor, and served as a Captain with the Elwood Volunteer Fire Department. Marty was born Sept. 21, 1943. Member, St. Joseph Parish, Joliet, IL., where he volunteered for many hours. Member, Moose #300 and Braidwood Recreation Club. Husband of Ellen (nee Kipilla). Father of Christine (Gregory) Offerman and Kimberly (Dwayne) Killian. Grandfather of Zachary Offerman (fiancée Samantha Reick), Matthew Offerman, Dwayne Martin Killian, and Ryan (Erin), Casey and Kyle Killian. Also survived by his brother-in-law Joseph Kipilla, sister-in-law Janet (Peter) Ragusa and niece Amanda Redden. Preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Celia Pavelek; two daughters who passed away in infancy; his first wife, Carol (Wisniewski) Delehanty, with whom he had his children; his brother, Arthur (Pam) Pavelek; his in-laws, Joseph (Marjorie) Kipilla and Peter (Katherine) Wisniewski; as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Joseph Church with cremation rites at a later date. All arrangements were handled by Tezak Funeral Home.

Marshall Pechauer, 93 years old. Marshall was born July 6, 1933, in Milwaukee, WI where his Slovenian grandparents settled after departing the mining life in the upper peninsula of Michigan. Marshall was a Lutheran pastor, ordained in 1959 and retired in 1996. He served Woodlake Lutheran (Richfield, MN), started a mission congregation in Oak Forest, IL and concluded his parish ministry at Lake Edge Lutheran in Madison, WI. He spent 12 years as assistant to the bishop in Madison before becoming Director of New Mission Congregations in Wisconsin, Upper Michigan and Minnesota. In his youth, he was exposed to the Slovenian way of life through his father, aunts and uncles. In the 70’s, he was able to connect with relatives in Semič, Bela Krajina. He was delighted to find the Twin Cities Slovenians and added his own whimsical twist to the Martinovanje celebration.

Emilia “Emily” Pennell (nee Percic), 96 years old. Daughter of the late Victtorio and Maria (nee Trobec), Emily was born Feb. 14,1930 in Tubljie, Slovenia. Wife of Asa “Boat” Pennell, whom she married in Germany during WW2, and immigrated to the US in 1952. Member, Stony Point Tabernacle Baptist Church. Also preceded in death by her sons Eddie Pennell and Jimmy Pennell, (Debbie), granddaughter Patricia Jones, and siblings Victor, Mario, Bert, and Maria. Survived by daughters Mae Baity, Susan Pennell, Vickie Heffner (Danny). Grandmother of Randy Heffner (Marcia), Danielle Simmons (Chris), Teala Pennell, Stacy Fagan (Levi), April Earp (Paul Clendenning), Emily Engelman (Ashton) and Jessica Kerley; great-grandmother of 16; and great-great-grandmother of seven. Family and friends were received at Tabernacle Baptist Church with the funeral service, followed by burial at Stony Point Tabernacle Cemetery. 

Donald Albert Pluth, 85 years old. Donald was born May 18, 1941. Veteran, U.S. Army where he was a paratrooper. Owner of The Grey Fox, a bar in Joliet, Illinois. He later worked for TTX as a railroad maintenance supervisor. During his years in California, Donald owned a lawn-mower shop in Sunnyvale and also worked for U.S. Diver Co. in Southern California. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, John Pluth and Mary Albert, and brother, John Pluth Jr. He is survived by his son, Don Albert Pluth Jr.; daughter-in-law, Dina Jo Pluth; grandsons, Daniel Albert Pluth and Matthew Angelo Pluth; brother, Bob Pluth; and sister, Sandy Rodeghiero; daughter-in-law, Katlyn Elizabeth Pluth; and many nieces and nephews. Donald will be laid to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors.

Frances Potts, 99 years old. She was born at Camp 3 in Roundup, MT., on July 9,1926 to George and Francis (nee Grahek) Steffans. Sister to Edward and Robert. She attended schools in Roundup. After High School, Frances moved to Great Falls where she resided the remainder of her life. Frances was a waitress most of her life, working at adjacent Wong’s Restaurant for many years. She worked as a waitress well into her 80s. Member, Ss. Cyril & Methodius Parish and Holy Spirit Church. Also predeceased in death by her siblings, Ed and Bob, and nephew Steve Steffans. Survived by her son Michael Potts (Delia), and grandsons John and Kenny. Also survived by numerous nephews and nieces. Services were held at Croxford Funeral Home, followed by private interment at New Miners Cemetery in Roundup.

Ruth Elizabeth Prince (nee Rakar), 86 years old, passed away Sept. 15, 2026, in San Diego after an extended illness. Ruth was born May 5, 1940, daughter of the late John Rakar and Ruth June Byers Rakar, of Slovenian descent. She graduated from Canonsburg High School in 1958 and later earned degrees in executive office management, psychology, economics, and business from Washington and Jefferson College. Wife of the late Frank Andrew Prince. Ruth’s professional life spanned decades in the steel industry, power generation, and human resources management, working with Universal Cyclops, McGraw Edison, and Cooper Industries. Ruth lived in Furth, Germany; Delafield, Wis.; and Siesta Key in Sarasota, Fl. Ruth practiced Marian and Sacred Heart devotions prayers and prayed the Rosary daily. Ruth was a woman of remarkable strength and selflessness, who always put her family and friends before herself. Ruth was an exceptional cook, who celebrated the rich ethnic traditions of her Hungarian, Polish, Greek, Slovenian and other roots. Survived by her daughter, Deborah Prince (Vince Watcher), Frank A. Prince Jr. and daughter-in-law Jennifer Susan Mills Prince. Also survived by siblings Sarah Jane Chadwick, Frances Curdie, and Nancy Heavens, and John Rakar Jr. Grandmother of Frank A. Prince III (Katya), Abigail Prince Capoccia (Dino), Tyler Zito, and Katelyn Zito; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also preceded in death by her sister, Susan Batson. A private internment will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery.

Paul Scamperle, 64 years old, born in 1962 as the son of Louis and Jolanda Scamperle, Detroit, MI, passed away in Aug. 2026. He spoke Slovenian before he learned English in kindergarten and later French and Italian. Paul was a serious student and played the clarinet in high school (first chair). As a Regent Alumni Scholar at University of Michigan, Paul double majored in chemical engineering and communications. Husband of Mary Jo (nee Osterman). Paul started his career in the industrial gas business, eventually working in the semiconductor industry. After moving to Phoenix, AZ., they founded an independent Catholic school, St. Maximilian Kolbe School, which was incorporated 25 years ago on August 14, 2001. Paul returned to the classroom and obtained a master’s degree in teaching Math and Science. After 14 school years, Kolbe School. Father of Nick, Louisa, and Peter. Also survived by his sister Elizabeth (Guy), nephews and nieces. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St Peter Cathedral, Marquette, MI., followed by internment of ashes at San Gabriel Cemetery.

Mary Stueber, 98 years old. Mary was born July 19, 1927, to the late Joseph and Mary (nee Tratar) Germ, Sheboygan, WI. She graduated from Central High School. Wife of the late William Stueber. Mary was employed at several nursing homes in Sheboygan and Port Washington. Member, KSKJLife, Slovenian Union of America, Branch 1, and Red Hats, and Ss. Cyril & Methodius Parish. Mother of Susan Stadtmueller, Peter (Laurie) Stueber, and Jolenne (Jim) Klunck. Grandmother of eight, step-grandchildren of three, and great-grandmother of 23 and great-great-grandmother of two. Preceded in death by her parents, husband, grandson Sean Yonan, brother and sister-in-law Joe and Charlotte Germ. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Ss. Cyril & Methodius Church, with interment at Greendale Cemetery at a later date.

Franc Tivadar, 79 years old, passed away Sept. 2, 2026. Franc was born in Velika Polana, Slovenia. Son of the late Ignac and Gizela (nee Hozjan). Sibling of Ignac, Josko, Alojz and Francka. In 1961, the family moved to Radenci, Slovenia. After primary school, he went on to complete his apprenticeship in cabinetry before leaving for Germany in 1967 to master the trade. After visiting America for the first time in 1972, Franc returned in 1974 to Chicago, IL and taken in by his loving aunt, Maria Petek. Husband of Zvonka. Through his strong work ethic Franc learned the English language and quickly became an irreplaceable asset at one of Chicago’s largest Exhibit Firms. In 1979 Franc took a risk to begin building museum exhibitions for clients in his Cicero garage. Shortly after he founded EDE Corporation, Franc leased warehouse space blocks from McCormick Place. For over 40 years, Franc worked tirelessly to produce exceptionally crafted exhibitions for some of the most well-known museums and companies in the world. He also hired, trained, and mentored hundreds of employees to provide the same level of expert craftsmanship and customer experience he used to help start his business all those years ago. Also survived by his children, Greg (Jill) and Rob (Jessica) and seven grandchildren. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Mary Slovenain Catholic Mission (Lemont, IL.). Visitation was at Zarzycki Manor Chaples, Ltd. Donations may be sent to St. Mary Catholic Mission, 14246 Main Street, Lemont, IL. 60439. Franc, počivaj v miru.