Mirko Zudic

MIRKO ZUDIC passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer; he was 71. Mirko was a devoted husband for 43 years of Ann (nee Cesar); loving father of Michael (wife Hayley), Michelle Applebaum (husband Josh), and Daniel (wife Nicole); beloved grandfather of Jack, J.J., Luka, Mila, Josie, Madalena, and Marko; cherished son of the late Milan and Ana Zudic; dearest brother of Maria Kobal and Nevia Avzlahar (husband Drago, deceased) and brother-in-law of Steve and Leighann Cesar; dear uncle and great-uncle of many.

Mirko was born February 6, 1955, in Prapoće, Croatia. There he spent his childhood until his family immigrated to the United States in 1968. He wrote a book about the memories and hardships his family endured as they looked forward to a better life and opportunity. Mirko served as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S Air Force and was able to travel extensively throughout Europe since being stationed in England. He returned home and graduated with a degree in business from Cleveland State University. Afterwards he worked many years as a purchasing manager in manufacturing. He enjoyed coaching his children's soccer teams and was very involved in the local ethnic community. Mirko never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome. Charismatic, ever curious and a great storyteller, he embraced life in every way and left an impression on everyone he met. He believed in the value of hard work and treasured time spent with family, above all else. Mirko loved to travel the world with Ann and created memories wherever adventure took them. Music always brought him joy, and he was up dancing whenever it was played. Mirko is remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, warm and genuine nature, and devotion to his family and faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider donating blood in Mirko's memory through the American Red Cross, or making a donation to the American Cancer Society in his honor.

To find a blood donation center near you, please visit www.redcrossblood.org/give.

Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, August 22, 2026, at St. John of the Cross Parish, 140 Richmond Rd, Euclid, OH 44143, at 10 AM. Burial with military honors following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Mirko at THE DEJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT-COSIC FUNERAL HOME 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) FRIDAY, August 21, 2026, FROM 4 - 8 PM.