Frances “Fay” Belcher, 97 years old. Fay was born Feb. 16, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio as the daughter of the late Anthony and Frances (nee Lavrich) Zaller. She grew up in a closeknit Slovenian family and carried those traditions of faith, hospitality, and joyful living throughout her life. Fay retired from the Ohio Bell Telephone Company after 19 years of dedicated service. She was admired for her strong work ethic, kindness toward coworkers, and ability to brighten even the busiest days with her warm smile, and a woman of deep faith. Wife of the late Frank D. Belcher. Mother of Tom (Patty Morgan) Belcher. Grandmother of Megan and Shannon. Sister of Alice Kufrin, Robert Zaller, and the late Raymond Zaller. Aunt and great-aunt. 

Margaret Boehm (nee Jenko), 66 years old. Margaret was born Jan. 6, 1959, in Euclid, Ohio as the daughter of the late Flora and Joseph Jenko. She graduated from Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in interior design. Wife of the late Gustavo Ernesto Boehm. Mother to Andrew, Peter, Caroline, and David. She is survived by her children and brother. Friends and family were received at DeJohn Funeral Home, Chesterland, Ohio. At the request of the family donations may be sent to the local Cleveland Alzheimer’s Association.

Carol M. Cercek, 83 years old, passed away Jan. 24, 2026. Carol was born Oct. 16, 1942 in the St Clair Avenue Slovenian neighborhood in Cleveland, OH, as the daughter of the late Frank J. and Frances (nee Lenarsic) Cercek. Niece of the following, all deceased: Lillian Skleryk (late Stanley Kordish and late William Skleryk), John, Frank and Joseph Lenarsic, Olga Mestak and Mary Cimperman. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Frances Lillian and Linda May. Carol grew up in Cleveland and Euclid, OH. After graduating from college, Carol joined the Peace Corps and served as a volunteer in Liberia, West Africa for two years. She returned to Cleveland to pursue a master’s degree and to begin teaching in the Cleveland Municipal School District where she was awarded a Martha Holden Jennings Scholarship for excellence in teaching. During her 30 years with the CMSD she worked as a teacher, administrator, curriculum developer, and principal. Carol is survived by her cousins of the Kordish and Fredle families and cherished friends. Parishioner, St. Vitus and St. Ladislas Parishes. A Memorial Service was held at St. Ladislas Church, followed by private interment. All arrangements handled by McGorry-Hanna Funeral Home. 

Martha Mary Gregorin (nee Golinar), 100 years old, passed away Feb. 18, 2026. Martha was born Nov. 28, 1925 as the daughter of the late Frank and Katherine Golinar. Member of former St. Christine Parish, and Ss. Robert and William Parish. She was well respected for her culinary and baking skills, especially making of potica. Wife of the late Stanley J. Gregorin, Sr. Mother of Dale (Kathy), Darlene (Greg), and Jack (Tricia). Grandmother of Matthew (Gabriella), Tricia (Scott), Jennifer (Jeff), Laura (Mattie), David, Jason (Larissa), Lindsay, and Ryan (Katelyn); and great grandmother of Kyle, Isabella, Kelsey, Emma, Peter, Helen, Scottie, Desmond, Leah, Charlotte and Myles. Also survived by siblings, John Golinar and Donald Golinar. Preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jill and siblings, Frank, Ann, Anthony, Joseph, Christine, Katherine, Rose, Carl, Mary and Marge. Family and friends were received at Brickman Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Ss. Robert and William Church followed by interment at All Souls Cemetery. 

Arthur “Art” Robert Jarc, Jr. 84 years old, lifelong resident in the Slovenian St. Clair Avenue neighborhood but most recently residing in Massillon, Ohio, passed away Jan. 13, 2026. Art was born Oct. 10, 1941 as the son of the late Arthur and Amelia (nee Murgel) Jarc. Art graduated, respectively, St. Vitus Elementary School, east High School and Kent State University where he received a bachelor’s degree in business administration.  He worked in retail management for most of his life but was also a substitute teacher for the Cleveland Municipal School District. Member, St. Vitus Parish. He enjoyed working on cars and other automotive endeavors. Father of Paul (Brigette) and David (Laurie). Grandfather of David, Stephen, Gillian, and Phillip. Also survived by the mother of his children, Betsey Jarc, his companion Connie Voris, and his best friend Bob Gubanc. Cousin of many. Also preceded in death by his children Karen, Willian, and Gail Jarc, and his brother, Robert. Services are pending.   

Joseph M. Jeric, 89 years old. Joseph was born July 29, 1936, to the late Joseph and Jennie  (nee Jesenovic) Jeric. Husband of the late Ruth. Father of Christine Jeric Burke (David), Lynne (deceased), Rick (Theresa), Joel (Paula Bauer), Randy (Susan), and Jamie. Grandfather of Connie McNutt (Wes), Myckey McNutt (Laura), Jason (Christina), Caitlin, Richard (Sarah), Christian (Jocè), Maria (deceased), Sarah (Dan), Alex, Abigail Lemoine (Taylor), David Burke (Kate); and great-grandfather of Brandon (Grace), Logan, Victor, John, Quinn, Stryker, Haley, Adalyn, Jameson, Lydia, Joseph, and Birdie. Also preceded in death by siblings Donald, Eugene, Ralph, and Cyril. He established the company Thermal Analysis Company and was a bowling proprietor at Bainbridge Colonial Lanes. Family and friends were received prior to the funeral Mass, with the funeral Mass of Christian Burial at St. Therese Church. Burial was at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Gerald Kosmerl, 91 years old, passed away Feb. 15, 2026. He was born on Aug. 20, 1934 as the son of the late Louis and Jennie Kosmerl. Husband of the late Patricia Kosmerl. Father of Tammy Pavlik (Mike), Doug (Nancy), Lou, Laura King (Dennis), Tina House (Kim), and the late Pete. Grandfather of Kayla Doles (Nathan), Nicholas Kosmerl, Elizabeth King, Joshua King, Crystal Sillato (Brad), Anthony House (Kristen), Natalie Waite (Brady), and Keri Stricker; and great-grandfather of Brianna, Bradley, Bradon, Eliana, Juliette, and Liliana. Brother of Ken Kosmerl (LaRue) and the late Nancy Wright. Uncle and great-uncle of many. After attending Collinwood High School, he was employed in various trades such as plumbing, excavating, and construction. He dedicated his skills to shaping his community, constructing numerous buildings, pools, and even the Maple Park Apartments. He also established and operated Vine Pizza and Dairy Twist, OK Car Wash, Casino Pizza in Fairport, and Sugar Bush Bar & Restaurant. He then transitioned to CT Consultants, where he retired. Member, Calvary Assembly of God and SNPJ. He loved polka music and spending time at SNPJ Farm and 4 R’s Bar. Visitation was at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, where final funeral services were held, followed by burial at Montville Township Cemetery.

Thomas J. Lekan, 81 years old, passed away Jan. 13, 2026. Veteran, U.S. Army. After his military service, he continued a calling as a Police Officer, and later as a Corporate Director of Security for both Nestlé and KeyBank. He went on to establish his own successful business as an expert witness and consultant in security and safety, where he was widely respected for his knowledge, integrity, and professionalism. He loved being outdoors, long walks, and time with family. He enjoyed golfing, hiking, and biking. Husband of Kathy. Father of Thomas (John), Laura Wyatt (Jeff), Melanie Farrell (John), and Cassidy. Grandfather of Shannon Zeisset, Samantha Wyatt, Jenna Wyatt, Macklin Farrell, and Nora Farrell. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Basil the Great Church. Burial to occur at a later date. All arrangement handled by Fortuna Funeral Home.

Carol Renee Malensek (nee Etherton), 61 years old, passed away Feb. 2, 2026 after a long battle with COPD. Carol was born June 8, 1964, as the daughter of Charles and Carol Etherton. She graduated from Chardon High School. Carol spent many years working in accounting and sales for Avery Dennison, House of LaRose, NEO Hospital, Punderson Manor, Carpet Mart of Ashtabula, Bilicic Busy Mart, BP Gas on Vrooman Rd, and QP Manufacturing. Wife of Ted. Mother of Crystal (Joe) Evans, Amanda Malensek, Theodore & Mary (Burless) Malensek. Grandmother of Dakota Malensek, Jarrett Evans, Landon Evans, Chaitin Davis, Elexis Evans, Ethan Evans, Gabriella Dodd, and Charlette Malensek. Sibling of Charles “Buster,” Peggy “PJ” Etherton Teske, and John W. Teske. Visitation and funeral service was at Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services, followed by gravesite service at Harpersfield Township Cemetery.

Judith “Judy” Misch, 77 years old, passed away Feb. 19, 2026. Judy was born Apr. 22, 1948, the daughter of the late Anthony and Adelaide Misch. She graduated from Euclid High School, Class of 1967. Judy was employed at Andre Duval, Severance Center, for 25 years as a hairdresser. After its closure, she continued to serve others by working various positions in local nursing homes. Member, St. John Vianney Parish and served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Noel Catholic Church. She is survived by her sisters, Maryann Ruff (Richard, deceased) and Kathleen (Donald) Rood. Aunt of Alan Misch, Paul (Laurie) Misch, Daniel Misch, Donald (Jennifer) Rood, and Megan Rood. Great aunt of many.  Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John Vianney Church, where the family and friends were received one hour before the funeral Mass. Interment was at All Souls Cemetery.

William “Bill” Papes, 88 years old, passed away Jan. 15, 2026. Veteran, US Army, Korean War. Father of Karen Getz (Daniel) and David (Tammy).Grandfather of Jacob (Olivia) and Madison Getz (James). Son to the late William and Mary (nee Cerne) Papes. Brother to Ronald (deceased), Anita James, and Debbie Stanzak (Gary deceased). Uncle to Todd Papes, Tina Jett, Bill James, Marie James, Scott James and Jaime Stanzak. Bill grew up in Bedford, Ohio. He graduated from Bedford High School. He was employed at Republic Steel in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2015, he underwent unsuccessful surgery that left him bedbound.  He spent the last five years at Mount Alverna Village. There, he received much love and tenderness. Bill’s family is very grateful to all the staff at Mount Alverna. Bill passed away quietly on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He will be missed terribly by all who knew him. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Barnabas Church followed by interment at All Saints Cemetery. Visitation was at Fortuna Funeral Home.

Lauren Marie Pachay (nee Luban), 43 years old, passed away Feb. 9, 2026. Lauren was born July 5, 1982, as the daughter of Sue and the late Robert Luban in Cleveland, OH. She grew up in Euclid and Mentor, OH. She graduated from Mentor High School, Class of 2000. Lauren and her husband Joe purchased a family restaurant in Wickliffe, Flavors on the Avenue, changing the name in 2018 to Joey’s Avenue Eatery. Wife of Joseph “Joe.” Mother of Joey, Johnny,, and Elliana. Also survived by her mother, Sue (Tim) Valentino. Sibling of Nick Luban and future Sister-in-Law Katie Danko. Daughter-in-law of Richard Pachay (Shelly Liposky) Sister-in-law of Rick (Jessica) Pachay and Tim (Kirstie) Pachay. Aunt and cousin of many.  Visitation for family and friends was at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, where final services were also held. Interment was at Mentor Cemetery.

Maria Perkins (nee Ferkul), 68 years old, passed away Feb. 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Wife of the late John (Veteran, US Air Force, Vietnam War, buried, Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery, Rittman, OH.). Maria was raised in the Slovenian St. Clair Avenue neighborhood off East 67th Street but resided in Madison, Ohio for the past 34 years. Maria was born Sept. 2, 1957. Her late husband and family owned and operated “John’s Union 76” off East 74th Street and St. Clair Avenue for many years. Mother of Tracy, Kimmy, Matthew (Noreen), and Jessica (Matt Novel). Grandmother of Mandy (Nick Henderlight), Erin, Rachael, Taylor, and Max, and great-grandmother of Orion, Evander, Jayce, and Bentley. Sibling of Sylvia Hirschegger (Andrew, deceased), late Bryan “Mirko,” Paul, Stan, John (Sharon), and Barbara (Doug). Daughter of the late Julie (nee Kostanjevec) and John  Ferkul. Aunt of many. Funeral Mass/services are still pending.  

Allen R. Petrich, 79 years old, passed away Feb. 15, 2026. Husband of Sharon (nee Satola). Father of Bradley (Brandi) and Jaime Dansa (Christopher). Brother-in-law of Shirley Frater (James, deceased). Uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Albert the Great Church. 

Raymond “Ray” J. Yartz, 89 years old, passed away Feb. 15, 2026. Ray was born Oct. 3, 1936 in the Slovenain St. Clair Avenue neighborhood as the son of the late Joseph and Margaret (nee Papes) Yartz. Companion of Clara Adriani. Brother of the following, all deceased: Margie Yartz, Mary Strazar, Lillian Frederico, Eleanor Quinn, Robert Yartz and James Yartz. Uncle and great uncle to many. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Vitus Church where viewing occurred one hour prior to the funeral Mass. Interment was at Calvary Cemetery. Ray was a lifelong parishioner, St. Vitus Parish. Member, St. Vitus Catholic War Veterans Post 1655 and Christ The King KSKJ Lodge #226 (also an officer). Volunteer at past parish summer and fall festivals.

Verica “Vera” Draksic, 74 years old, passed away Feb. 26, 2026. She was born Aug. 23, 1952 as the daughter of the late Mijat and Anna Kalac, in former Yugoslavia with siblings Maria (deceased), Lucija (deceased), Nevenka, and Petar. Vera felt a calling as a young woman to the field of nursing. This developed into a life-long devotion to cooking and caring for family and friends that she took with her everywhere, from aiding residents at the Slovene Home for the Aged to her work with the Congregation of Blessed Sacrament. In the winter of 1971, Vera legally emigrated to the United States, settling in Cleveland where she started a family with her late husband, Martin. Mother of Anita (Edgar, deceased), and Irena (Chris). Grandmother of Evan. Vera was known as a skilled cook and baker, preparing foods such as strudels, poticas and sarma. You could find Vera at the nearest kitchen peeling a potato, chopping an onion, or kneading dough; all while stirring a simmering pot. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Divine Word Church followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friend were received at Zevnik-Cosic Funeral Home, Chardon Road. At the request of the family, donations may be made to Sisters of Mercy, Sisters of Notre Dame of the United States, St. Jude, or Doctors Without Borders.

Henry “Hank” F. Cernigoj, 84 years old, passed away Feb. 24, 2026. Henry was born Feb. 13, 1942, in Cleveland to the late Henry and Diana (née Sibenik). Hank grew up in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood and, as a “Railroader,” competed in multiple high school sports. He went on to attend Kent State University, where he competed in golf and won a championship as a player. After graduation, Hank returned to Collinwood to begin his teaching career. He later continued teaching at Brush High School, where he began coaching football as an assistant before becoming head coach. Retiring from teaching, Hank served as an assistant golf professional at Manakiki Golf Course. He shared his passion for sports as a member of the broadcast crew for the Cleveland Indians. Hank then embraced a vibrant music. He enjoyed attending blues and fifties concerts, singing and dancing. Husband of Carol (née Phillips). Father of Christine. Brother-in-law Frank (Henriette) Phillips and Mildred (Robert) Wiltshire. Family and friends were received at Brickman Bros. Funeral Home, where a final funeral service was held followed by a procession to All Souls Cemetery for the burial.

Richard Cerny. Husband of Maureen (nee Samp). Father of Katie Cerny-Suelzer (Christian Suelzer) and Mary Cerny (Andrew Karla). Grandfather of Spencer and Zoe. Brother of the late John and Frank. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Basil the Great Church, followed by interment at All Saints Cemetery. All arrangements handled by Mallcock Funeral Home. 

Darlene L. Germovsek (nee Luda) 68 years old, passed away Feb. 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness. Darlene was graduated from Euclid High School, Class of 1976. She was employed at Precision Metalsmiths as a Quality Assurance Technician for 36 years. She then worked at SweetBerry Fresh Market in Wickliffe in the prepared foods department. Wife of Alan. Mother of Monica Germovsek (Edward Gamero) and Lindsey Germovsek (John Cirelly). Grandmother of Emalynn Germovsek. Ssister of Dennis Luda (Janet), Steven Luda (deceased), Sandra Maxey (deceased) (Ronald), Tina Richards (Irving) and Terry Luda. Aunt, great aunt and cousin of many. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Wickliffe, OH. Family and friends were received at Brickman Bros. Funeral Home. At the requets of the family, donations may be made to charity of choice.

Nicholas Katanic, 73 years old, passed away Jan. 28, 2026. Nick was born Jan. 31, 1952, in Akron’s North Hill neighborhood, son of the late Nicholas and Anna Sue (Polefrone) Katanic. He grew up surrounded by a large and loving extended Italian (and Slovenian) family. He graduated from, respectively, St. Martha Elementary School, St. Vincent High School, Kent State University and University of Chicago Graham School. Husband of Maureen (nee Gaffney). Father of James, and grandfather of Brandon (Kathelynn). Great-grandfather of Brandon L Erden, J.R. Katanic.  Nick was employed as a teacher of English in the Akron Public School System, for six years, including Central Hower High School and Perkins Junior High School. In 1980, he was hired by National Bank of Alaska. He then worked for a small computer company and then IBM, retiring from IBM in 2008. He became a Master Gardener and received the Garden Club of America Club Horticulture Commendation by the Akron Garden Club. Member, Board of Directors of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Akron Art Museum, Great Trail Council, Summit County Master Gardeners, Catholic Youth Organization/Catholic Charities Summit County, Countryside, and Warriors Journey Home. Member, St. Victor Parish, Richfield, OH. Nick and Maureen were fortunate to be able to travel to many wonderful places during their marriage, but his favorite place was always home. He is also survived by his brother, Joe Katanic (Diana).  Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Victor Church, followed by burial at Ira Road Cemetery.

Joseph M. Plavac, 95 years old, passed away Mar. 3, 2026. He was born September 3, 1930 in Cleveland, Ohio. Husband of Helen (deceased). Father of Rev. Timothy Plavac (pastor, St. Beded The Venerable Parish) and Andrea Boerger (Kenneth). Grandfather of Zachary (Alicia) and great grandfather of Kenny. Brother of Donald (deceased)(Jean), Ralph(deceased)(Joann), Sister Ann Barbara and the following, all deceased: George (Mary), Nicholas, Milan (Anna Mae) and Mary Dobos (Andy). Son of the late Nicholas and Mary. Family and friends were received at DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Bede the Venerable Church, Mentor, OH., followed by interment at All Souls Cemetery. AT the request of the family, donations may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, P.O. Box 72700, Cleveland, OH 44192 or School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King 13900 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439.

Mary Rot (née Kozelj), 93 years old, passed away Mar. 7, 2026. Mary was born Jan. 18, 1933, in Hočevje, Slovenia, as the daughter of the late Ivan and Marija (nee Horvat) Koželj. In 1958, Mary legally immigrated to the USA, where she dedicated 30 years as a master seamstress at Richman Brothers. Mary was also known for her gardening skills, growing blooming flowers and a garden of peppers, beets, potatoes, lettuce, and onion,. She found great joy in the kitchen, preparing fresh meals or baking traditional potica, strudel, flancate, and krofe. Wife of the late Adolf Rot. Aunt to many nieces and nephews across the United States and Slovenia. Preceded in death by siblings Jože (Veronika, deceased), Ivan (Ančka, deceased), Anton (Marija), and Stane (Anka). Survived by her brother, France (Tončka). Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John of the Cross Church, followed by burial following at All Souls Cemetery. All arrangements entrusted to DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home, South Euclid.

Judith Lynn Slapnik, 86 years old, passed away Feb. 24, 2026. She was born on July 16, 1939 in Cleveland, OH to the late Harold and Linnie Nielson. Wife of Chuck Slapnik. Mother of Sue Sokalski (Ken), and late Scott Slapnik. Mother-in-law of Angie Slapnik. Grandmother of Spencer and Savannah Marincek, and Lily, Chase, and Allie Slapnik. Sister of Jane Krivoy (Dan, deceased), Rudy Nielson (Eileen), and late Bob Nielson. Sister-in-law of Loralee Nielson. Aunt, cousin, and friend to many more. Judy was known as an excellent as a seamstress. She also enjoyed boat trips to the islands and Canada. Member, Cleveland Water Ski Club, performing in shows for various yacht clubs across the Cleveland area. Funeral services are still pending. 

Jeff Sotka, 58 years old, passed away Jan. 19, 2026. Jeff was born Jan. 2, 1968, as the son of the late Robert (Gayle) Sotka and Kathleen Dudich. Jeff was engaged in the exterior home improvement industry, co-founding S. Bradley Company in 1994. Father of Ryan Jeffrey England, Kayla Marie Medved (Samuel), and Celina Lynn Sotka. Grandfather of Leo Jeffrey and Delaney Elise Koleszar, and Rozlynn Genesis England. Brother of Gregory (Julie) and Mark Sotka. Step brother of Brian Dudich (Jennifer) and Jamie Trivisonno (Anthony). Uncle, nephew, and cousin to many. Friend of Jennifer Millison. Family and friends were received prior to Memorial Mass at Divine Word Church. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Daniella Avsec (nee Cesen), 93 years old. Beloved wife of Edward (deceased, US Veteran). Loving mother of Mark Avsec (Yvette Williams), Sandy Petrovic (Frank) and Ken Avsec (Patrice). Devoted grandmother of Danna Avsec, Steve Petrovic (Claire), Craig Petrovic (Paige), Ellen Contrucci (Tony), David Petrovic, Austin Avsec and great-grandmother of nine. Cherished daughter of August and Mary M. Cesen (nee Nemec). Dearest sister of the late August Cesen (Babe, deceased). Daniella was born on December 23, 1932 in Cleveland and graduated from Notre Dame High School. She resided in the St. Clair neighborhood (East 61st Street, north of St. Clair Avenue) until she moved to Willowick in the mid-1990’s. She took great pride in her life as a housewife and was an incredible cook and baker. She also enjoyed gardening. She spent a brief time working in the office of Richman Brothers on E. 55th in the 70’s and she belonged to many organizations and lodges. Daniella was a very active (and lifelong) parishioner of St. Vitus Church for many years. Daniella loved dancing with her beloved husband, Edward, with whom she shared an incredible marriage for 44 years. She loved all things Slovenian, including polkas. She enjoyed attending St. Vitus events as well as plays, concerts and activities that her 6 grandchildren were involved in. Family meant everything to her and she supported every one of her children’s aspirations. Daniella’s legacy will live on through the many lives she touched, and she will be truly missed.

NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL OBITUARIES

Ronald “Ron” Suponcic, 82 years old, passed away in Venice, FL., on Feb. 22, 2026. Ron was born July 25, 1943, in the Slovenian St. Clair Avenue neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio. Ron graduated, respectively, from St. Vitus Elementary School and Cathedral Latin High School before faithfully serving his community for 27 years as a Cleveland Police officer. Husband of Zita (nee Zak). Father of Ronald Jr. (Bozena), Susan (Michael Cotter), and Amy Young (Todd). Grandfather to Holly, Heather, and Amanda Young, and Mindy Roberts (Barak). Sibling of Mike (Carol) and Kenny (Barbara). Affectionately known as “St. Clair Ron,” he and Zita retired to Florida in 2005. He will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, devilish grin, bocce prowess, and love of Slovenian polkas. Lifelong member, St. Vitus Parish, Cleveland, OH. Committal service will be held at Palms Memorial Park, Sarasota FL.

Slava Cooks (nee Jelenic), 89 years old, passed away in Australia, Feb. 2, 2026. She was born Apr. 28, 1936 as the second of five children to the late Ivan and Maria Jelenic in Račice, Slovenia. Wife of Rodney. Mother and mother-in-law to Eddie and Majda. Grandmother of Robbie and Molly, Nicole, and Nanna Slava to Margo and Angus. When she was 17 years old, Slava left her home and escaped harsh, limited conditions of imposed Communism in Slovenia and headed to Trieste, Italy. Within four months she was legally permitted to emigrate to Sydney, Australia. She then was employed with a religious order of nuns at Bethlehem Hospital in the maternity wards, working in childcare and home help. She began working at Kew Cottages on 8th January 1957 and remained there for 34 years until she retired. Member, Slovenian Club Jadran, Victoria, Australia where she was a committee member for 17 years and President (1994-to-1997). All services were held at Peter Elberg Funeral Home Walter Loxton Chapel followed by interment at Centennial Park Cemetery. Naj počivaj v miru.

Stan “Stane” Jakopin, passed away Feb. 25, 2026. Stan was born in Ljubljana, Slovenia, during World War II. He had memories of hearing bombs dropping nearby and of not being able to unclench his fists frozen in fear. His father was killed when Stan was three years old, so he grew up without a dad, and with very few means. His first job was selling lettuce he grew at the local farmer’s market. His mother moved to Germany when Stan was a young teenager, leaving Stan in the care of some relatives and at a boarding school, but really, no one was looking after him. He then met his future wife, Jeri, in middle school. They married after college and started their family in Slovenia.  Stan and Jeri decided to legally emigrate to the USA with their first child, Peter. Their friends and sponsors, the Suhadolc family, enabled stability in New Jersey. Stan was then employed as an engineer for an international company, plus further schooling at the Stevens Institute of Technology. The family then moved to Illinois. He then launched Advanced Polymer Compounding (APC) and remained there until selling the company for his retirement. After retirement he traveled to Africa, Papua New Guinea, Alaska and back to Slovenia. The last eight years Stan dealt with Multiple Myeloma. Survived by his wife, Jeri. Sister Vanda. Father of Peter (Linda), Barbara (Bobbi) (Timothy), Jennifer (Daniel). Grandfather of Rebecca, Amy, Alexander, Maxwell, Abigail, and Zachary. Uncle of many in USA and Slovenia. Preceded in death by parents Stane and Julija, as well as his “American parents” Hamell and Phyllis Suhadolc, and their daughter, Donna. Visitation was at Davenport Family Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Anne Church, with private interment.

Tami K. Vogel, 61 years old, passed away in Blaine, WA, Feb. 28, 2026. Wife of Jim Vogel. Mother of Valeria Zediker. Step-mother of Athena Vogel, Phil Vogel and Jack Vogel. Grandmother of Henry, Linus, Alice, and Ollie. Sister of Sharon Mixer. Daughter of the late Fred and June (nee Cook) Yates. Preceded also in death by her sister, Sandi Jackson. Tami was born Apr. 10, 1964. Tami grew up boating and hiking in the Pacific Northwest. After graduating from Blaine High School, Class of 1982, Tami attended SST Travel Academy and began her career. In 1984, she joined the early team at America West Airlines, working as a flight attendant. She then returned to the Pacific Northwest, working with Mutual Travel before founding Portside Cruises & Tours in 1992, an agency specializing in land and sea adventures. Member, Dillon Yacht Club, sailing in local regattas. Volunteer, Mountain Hosts at Keystone. A memorial service was held at Dillon Community Church in Dillon, followed by interment at Dillon Cemetery. 

Frank Valencic, age 94, of Strabane, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in Canonsburg Hospital, supported always by the love of his devoted family. He was born on July 19, 1931, in Meadowlands, the son of the late John and Jennie Cvetnic Valencic. Frank was a member of the St. Patrick Church – St. Oscar Romero Parish and was a graduate of Chartiers High School, where he excelled in wrestling, baseball and football. He was the owner of Tomsic Chrysler/Jeep in Meadowlands for over 50 years. On November 19, 1955, he married Marjorie Tomsic, who he leaves behind after 70 years of marriage. Frank proudly served as Master Sergeant in the United States Army as the head of military police in France during the Korean War. A commanding officer arranged leave for him to visit relatives in his home country of Slovenia numerous times, which started a long love of culture and family roots. He was very proud of his Slovenian heritage and spoke fluent Slovenian, traveling there for 30 years with his wife and family. He enjoyed attending various Slovenian festivals, loved to dance and traveled on numerous bus trips with his wife and many friends. His favorite pastime was riding on his tractor all summer long, cutting grass on his farm. Also left behind to cherish his memory are his beloved children, Frank J. (Karen) Valencic of Eighty Four, Darryl Valencic (Terri Halaburda) of Canonsburg, Barbara (Ken) Thomas of McMurray, and Jennie (Gary) Pernisek of Canonsburg, his dear grandchildren, Frank (Kristi) Valencic, Eric (Courtney) Valencic, James (Olivia Ridgway) Valencic, Lauren (Matt) Bechtold, Nick (Cara) Thomas, Lindsey Thomas, Stefan, Brandon and Jonathan Pernisek, great-granddaughter Milena Valencic and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his favorite companion, Layla the Australian Shepherd. Frank was the last of his immediate family. Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, are his siblings, John Valencic Jr, and his sisters, Mary Lucas, Frances Wozniak and Jennie Valencic.

Jozef Copot, with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Jozef Copot, age 81, of LaGrange Park, IL, on December 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jozef was born on March 2, 1944, in Gornja Bistrica, Slovenia.

Jozef was the beloved son of the late Ivan and Evelina Copot (nee Kostrica). At the age of 18, he left home to join the Army. After serving, he came back home and met the love of his life, Maria (nee Kavas). They were married on April 17, 1966. In 1970, they moved with their daughter Milena to the United States, where they grew their family. Jozef’s unexpected passing came as a shock, just how fast he was taken. His memory will remain in the hearts and thoughts of his family and friends. Jozef was the beloved husband of Maria and loving father to Milena Copot, Susanna (Brian) Netterville, and proud grandfather to Patrick and Kyle Netterville. Preceded in death by his parents Ivan and Evelina Copot, his brothers Stefan and Ivan Copot, and his sisters Cecilia Copot and Doroteja Rous (Copot). Jozef enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family and friends. We spent beautiful times with Jozef, husband, our father and grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be forever missed.