John L. Miklavicic
John L. Miklavicic was united with his wife and grandson when he passed away peacefully on November 25, 2014.
John was born on May 16, 1927 to John and Rose Miklavicic in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He grew up enjoying fishing, hunting, football and boxing. Upon graduation from Milwaukee Messmer he enlisted in the Army. Later he married Thelma Luttrell on July 12, 1952. Together they were blessed with their son John on September 16, 1959. John enjoyed spending his weekends in Friendship. He later resided there with his family for the remainder of his life.
John’s personality is the epitome of strength and loyalty. He displayed this as a young male during his enlistment in the Army and in his feisty days of holding his own during his boxing matches. His value for strength and determination was highlighted in his marriage of sixty-two years to the love of his life. It was also displayed in his career choice as being a mason by trade and followed by starting Miklavicic Construction. It brought great pride and joy to him to be able to provide for his family and to work side-by-side with his one and only son.
His legacy continued by passing down his love for nature to his family through hunting, fishing and skiing. Furthermore, he instilled the importance of using humor during life’s trials and tribulations.
John set and paved the path for what strength, loyalty and love looks like. His jovial spirit will forever be embedded on the souls of his family and friends, and for that, they are forever grateful.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Rose Miklavicic; wife, Thelma June Miklavicic; and grandson, Michael Miklavicic.
Survivors:
Son: John M. (Debra) Miklavicic of Friendship, Wisconsin
Grandchildren: Shana (Brandon) Wallner of Friendship, Wisconsin
Grandchildren: Alicia (Brett) Franz of West Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Great-Grandchildren: Josh Wallner, Blayde Wallner, Boede Wallner, Elyanah Franz
Step-Grandson: Chad (Terri) Black of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
Step-Granddaughter: Angela (Ryan) Anderson of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
Brother-in-law: Alan (Rose) Luttrell of New Berlin, Wisconsin
God-child and Niece: Valerie (Willie) Wilkiewicz of Kingman, Arizona
Nephew: Chris (Ruth) Luttrell of Waukesha, Wisconsin
Niece: Cheryl (Scott) Brooks of Waukesha, Wisconsin
Niece: Kay (Greg) Panno of Waukesha, Wisconsin
Private family services were held at Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Interment will be at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online
condolences and further information.
So much reminescing about our childhood. Johnny and I, our hardworking parents, the Slovenian Heritage, relatives, friends, and neighbors. So many memories of our lives on S. 85th Street. Those were the good old days.
We are so sorry to hear about John. We remember your family from years ago when the ski hill was in operation. And most recently when I would see him at Villa. My mother thoroughly enjoyed his company and constantly tried to assist him. She sat with him at lunch almost every day so I had frequent contact with him. Mom was mad at the workers because she felt they didn’t help him enough. Take Care and God Bless to all of you!
Dear Jonathan… Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and family at this very difficult time~~Sincerely, Tim and Kathy
I was so sorry to hear of my uncle’s passing. I recall visiting his home as a child and playing with his black lab, King. I remember that he and my Aunt Thelma were the first people I ever knew that had red kitchen appliances and an aluminum Christmas tree! My thoughts are with you.
John, Deb and Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. It sounds like Your Dad left you a great legacy, and I see it continued in your family.
John and Thelma were a real team and we all have fond memories of the ski hill days. They were a special asset to our area- rest in peace John.
John and Deb, We send our love!
We are so sorry on your loss. May God, family and friends comfort you during this difficult time.
Thank you Shana for tracking me down and letting my mom know of her brother’s passing. It was very thoughtful of you. I remember visiting Uncle John and Thelma at their apartment on 92 nd street in West Allis at Christmas. Thelma always wore Taboo perfume and I can still remember the scent! Sorry for your loss.
John’s obituary is beautifully written and really captures his essence. The nickname Big Daddy always suited him so well. Both John and Thelma were some of the kindest people I’ve known. Thinking of old times with you all fondly. My thoughts are with your family.
John, So sorry to hear about your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
John M.
I have missed my uncle for many years. I used to see him making regular visits with my grandfather when I stopped by my grandfather’s home while delivering newspapers. I am heartened to know that he enjoyed life in Friendship. I offer my condolences for all your losses.