Strahinja Ilic

Strahinja (Steve) Ilic, age 82, loving husband of Radmila (deceased) for 52 years. He is survived by his dear daughter Jelena (Helen), son-in-law John Thomas, and grandsons, Philip and Adam.  After a long and difficult journey on dialysis, he gave up the good fight.  He endured the difficult treatments to live just one more day to see his grandsons, to spend time with his loving family and friends, to eat good food, to spend time with his rescued poodle, Charlie.

After bringing his wife and daughter to the USA in 1967, he lived out his dream of being an American citizen, where he worked in manufacturing, built three new homes, took care of his family, loved listening to classical music, tended to his rose garden, and sent his daughter to college.  He eventually retired in 2003, and spent many blissful years with his wife, often looking after his grandsons, while his daughter and son-in-law traveled extensively for work.  Those were his and his wife’s most treasured “golden” years.   He is also survived by his uncle and aunt, Vladimir & Desanka Lazukic, extended family, many Godchildren and Kumovi, friends, and neighbors in the USA, Canada, and Serbia. They all kept in touch with him regularly, to see how he was doing, all of which made him immeasurably happy in his final days and months.  His family is grateful to everyone who cared about him, cared for him, and especially the caregiver Heroes who showed such great compassion during these very trying times.

Due to Covid-19, a private service only will be held, with V. Rev. Mijoljub Matic of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church officiating.  IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, THE FAMILY REQUESTS CONDOLENCES BE SENT TO:  Helen Thomas & Family, c/o FAULHABER FUNERAL HOME, 7915 Broadview Rd., Broadview Hts., OH 44147 ARRANGEMENTS BY DONALD A. FAULHABER FUNERAL HOME.