Duka Djurovic

Duka Djurovic passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2013, surrounded by the love of his family. Duka was born on March 15, 1925, in Danilovgrad, Montenegro, Yugoslavia; the son of the late Petar and Anica (nee: Mitrovic) Djurovic.

As a very young man during World War II in Europe, Duka fought bravely against Communism and Nazism. At the end of World War II, Duka lived and attended school in Italy for six years. Duka was fluent in Serbian, English, Italian and French.

In 1951, Duka immigrated to the United States, living and working in Chicago for two years; then moving to Racine, which became his home for the next 60 years. On August 29, 1959, he was united in marriage to Desanka Duvnjak at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Racine. Next month, Duka and Desanka would have celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Upon first coming to America, Duka worked at Zenith Corporation in Chicago. After moving to Racine, he began his career with Racine Steel Castings, where he was employed as a Supervisor for more than 36 years. Following his retirement from Racine Steel Castings, he worked part-time for R & B Grinding Co.

 Duka was an active member of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church. Duka enjoyed gardening, the outdoors, and above all spending time with his family. His family was the most important thing in his life. Duka greatly loved the United States and was so proud of this country. He was such a kind, patient, optimistic man. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who will be deeply missed.

Duka leaves behind to cherish his precious memory his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Desanka; loving daughters, Zora (Dr. Alan) Gilman of Lincolnwood, IL; Dragica Djurovic (Bill McReynolds) of Racine, two precious grandchildren, Sarah Gilman and Adam Gilman of Lincolnwood, IL. Duka is also survived by one sister, Bozana Zivkovic, of Yugoslavia; numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends throughout the United States, Yugoslavia and Sweden. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and two sisters. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday evening, July 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. The funeral will take place on Wednesday, July 10, at 10 a.m. at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, 826 State St., Racine, with Father Dragan Mitrovic officiating. Burial will take place at the Most Holy Mother of God (New Gracanica) Monastary Cemetery in Third Lake, IL. Memorials may be directed to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization or to the American Heart Association.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Wheaton Franciscan Home Hospice Care, especially to Tamara, Isaac, Andrea and Jill for their loving and compassionate care of Duka during the past four months.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine    (262) 634-7888