Mary Zdelar 1936-2024

Mary was born in the hamlet of Vrbanci, in the municipality Draganic, Croatia, on July 21, 1936, the daughter of the late Ignacij and Paula Jazvac.

On Nov. 28, 1953, she married John I. Zdelar in Draganic, Croatia, after which she traveled to her new home in Brookfield on her husband’s family farm. For over 75 years, she and her husband were dairy cattle and beef farmers on his family farm. After they sold the cattle, she worked with her friend, Mitzi Bielobockie, for 15 years at a local cleaning company.

Mary was naturally a hard worker. She enjoyed doing her own home decorating and keeping her yard and landscaping looking immaculate, always planting flowers and working her beautiful garden to prepare for canning season. She was also an amazing cook and was known for her wedding soup, ham and barley soup, ribbon Jell-O, palatschinke and kolachi nut roll. She also enjoyed crocheting and playing bingo. She was a second mother to everyone in her neighborhood and her home was always open to the neighborhood children, offering them her latest food or pastry creations. She would even offer advice if asked. Mary had a most gracious, happy, loving and pleasant personality. She also had a unique Croatian accent that so many just loved to listen to. Mary was proud of her heritage and was a 52-year member of the Croatian Fraternal Lodge 126 in Farrell, Pa.

Mary will be greatly missed by her son, Joseph Zdelar and his wife, Ruthie; her siblings, Josip Jazvac, Ivan Jazvac and Katarina Jazvac; a sister-in-law, Pauline Yasnowski; three step- grandchildren, Paige, Seth and Evan; four nieces and nine nephews; as well as several great- nieces and nephews; and many close friends who were like family.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, John I. Zdelar Sr.; a son, John I. Zdelar Jr.; a sister, Barbara; brother, Mijo; sister-in-law, Mary Hubish; and her grandmother, Elizabeta “Stara Mama” Jazvac who helped raise her.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, at Lane Family Funeral Homes, Madasz Chapel in Brookfield.

A funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Ryan Furlong officiating.

Burial will be at a later date in Brookfield Township Cemetery, where she will be rejoined with her husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Traditions Hospice, 4531 Belmont Ave. #7, Youngstown, OH 44505.

Online condolences may be made to the family and the obituary viewed at www.madaszchapel.com.

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