Ivan “John” Jelovac


Jelovac Obit

Ivan “John” Jelovac was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He left this world to be with his Lord and Savior on July 28, 2024 at the age of 79.

He was born July 19, 1945. Ivan was preceded in death by his mother, Marguerite Bellows, father, Golub Jelovac, brother, Antonio “Tony” Jelovac, sister, Tonka Pavic, two nieces, Sonja Green and Michelle Peldich, one nephew, Adrian Peldich and two fur-babies Happy-Jack and Dobie.

He leaves behind his loving and caring wife of 39 years, Theresa “Teri” Jelovac, three sons, Choney, Bronko and Christopher Jelovac, one daughter, Frances Jelovac Edwards (Scott), one grandson, Michael Gavel (Kate), one sister, Ksenia Peldich and many nieces and nephews.

Ivan retired from Iron Workers Local 17 after 45 years of service.

He was surrounded and blessed with great friends and neighbors. He boasts about living in Litchfield, Oh, it being a beautiful place with beautiful people.

He found daily joy in loving his fur-babies Buddy and Sissy.

Ivan experienced many wonderful life adventures. A few of his favorites include traveling Route 66, Hawaii, Bahamas, Grand Cayman and making memories across the states with his wife, scuba diving with sharks, skydiving with his daughter, fishing and hunting with his sons and friends, and taking a special trip to Colorado on his Harley, which he enjoyed riding very much, with his grandson and dear friends. He was very drawn to the ocean his whole life.

Ivan was a true Patriot who was extremely proud of his grandson Army Medic Michael Gavel and took pride in watching him grow into the man he is today.

A special “Thank You” to all of his doctors and hospice staff at Southwest General.

Per his request, no funeral services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers, share a memory or donate to Whispering Acres Animal Sanctuary in Medina, Ohio or Wounded Warriors.

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  1. Joe Cox says:

    So sorry to hear about Ivan we worked together on many projects over the years. Sorry I didn’t stay in touch the way I should have. He was such a great guy and ironworker. You might remember years ago he borrowed my truck to get furniture or something and let me drive his Corvette while he used the truck. I was thrilled because I always wanted to drive a Corvette. Prayers to all, Joe and Lori Cox

    • Theresa Jelovac says:

      Joe , yes I remember you, lived off 18? I can see your house in my mind. He worked with great people over the years, we thought about you often, Teri

  2. Donna Cox says:

    Thoughts and prayers for the family and much love. Such a small part of my childhood but such wonderful memories that he left behind. May he rest peacefully in the Fathers arms.

  3. Kathryn Buschur says:

    You don’t know me but I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. May the memories all have of your loved one bring a smile to your faces and a warmth in your hearts. Just know that he is and always will be with you even though you may not see him. May you find peace and comfort knowing that your loved one is in God’s hands and all the pain is gone. Again, I’m so very sorry.

  4. Bettie Akers says:

    Teri, you don’t know me but I have lived in Litchfield for 54 years. Your story has touched me. I have been widowed twice and it takes a toll on the body. If you ever need to talk, you may contact me. Take care of yourself. Bettie

  5. Bryian jelovac says:

    To all of my family. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that you all find peace and joy..as I have lost my father I know the pain and I hope you can heal from this..loosing uncle Ivan is as if I lost another father..from my family to yours we love you all and we are here if you need

  6. Susan Schroder says:

    Heartbreaking Teri praying for you to find comfort and peace during this sad time

  7. Roger and Rose Keene says:

    He were a great neighbor. Will miss your smile. We will look after Teri for you. Love and Prayers
    Roger and Rose