Paul (Pavel) Pecaric

Paul passed away peacefully on July 14th, 2023 in South Haven, Michigan. Paul was 91 and was born on April 17, 1932 in Drasici, Slovenia to Maria and Martin Pecaric. In the winter of 1960, Paul married the love of his life, Irene. For the next 60 years, their life focused on raising three wonderful children and enjoying a life to be proud of, centered on family.

Paul first immigrated to Canada to meet up with his older brother Martin and his first job as a gold miner. Periodically he would travel to Chicago to see his parents and siblings where he ran across his future wife at events at St Stephens church. He left Canada, got married, and started a new career as a Mechanic at National Can. In 1962 he had his first child, a son (John), in 1963 a daughter (Diane), and then in 1968 a son (Robert). From that point forward, Paul devoted all his energy into raising and teaching life lessons to his children.

Paul took great pride in being a provider to the Family, his Slovene heritage, and being a “Gentlemen Farmer”. After a long career working in factories, he loved the Blueberry Farm he established. It was not just a “farm”, but a place where Family and Friends could gather, play balina & koza, maybe have a

lamb or pig on a spit, and potentially a glass of wine or a slivovica.

He always tried to be a role-model for all that knew him but especially for his grandchildren; Nate Jacobson, Nica Jacobson, and Josh Pecaric. He enjoyed spending any time he could with his grandkids. Whether it was walking on the farm, picking blueberries, or protecting them from the farm animals.

Paul spent the past three years defying all odds and fighting for more time with his family and friends. In the end, no time is enough time. We are thankful for each day that we had with him.

Paul was predeceased by his wife Irene and parents Martin & Maria Pecaric and sister Marie and brother in law Stanley Vlasic. He is survived by his children John (Ronda)Pecaric, Diane (Dan) Jacobson; and Robert Pecaric; his grandchildren Nate, Nica, and Josh; and his brother Joe (Jane) Pecharich, Milan(Martha) Pecharich, Peter (Susan) Pecharich, and his brother-in-law Bill (Paula) Hintz,

The family thanks his personal Nurses Joann and Stephanie for their care of Paul.

Thank you, Paul/Ati/Stara Ate, for teaching us the importance of family. You are an excellent example of strength, courage, positivity and kindness. You will be forever missed and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing you!

 Family will welcome guests Friday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM July 21, 2023 at Petkus Funeral Home 12401 Archer Ave, Lemont, IL 60439 Saturday Paul will be lying in state 9:00AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Slovenian Catholic Mission. 14246 Main St. Lemont, IL 60439. Internment: Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Il. A luncheon reception will follow.

In lieu of Flowers, we ask that you plant a tree somewhere – that would bring a big smile to Paul’s face  or Memorials may be given to St Mary's Slovenian Catholic Mission.

Arrangements entrusted to Debbie Zefran Jerry funeral director and friend.

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