John "Janko" Rendulic's Obituary
John “Janko” Rendulic, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, passed away on Friday, March 8, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on May 7, 1941, in Bosiljevo, Croatia, to Mato and Ruža Rendulic, John's life was marked by a spirit of resilience, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family.
In his youth, John served in the Yugoslavian army from 1961 to 1963, demonstrating his commitment to service and duty. Following his military service, he lived in France from 1966-1968. He then embarked on a journey that led him across continents, eventually immigrating to the United States in 1968. Fluent in four languages, John's rich cultural background and diverse experiences shaped his character and endeared him to those around him.
John's career spanned decades, during which he contributed his skills as a bricklayer at US Steel, attaining several professional certifications in leadership, welding, and masonry. He worked tirelessly for 30 years until his well-deserved retirement in 1999. Prior to his tenure at US Steel, he honed his craft at the Lorain Shipyards, leaving a lasting mark on the industrial landscape of his community.
A man of faith, John was a member of St. Vitus Catholic Church until it’s closing and remained dedicated to his spiritual beliefs throughout his life. He was also a member of the United Steelworkers Union and Croatian Fraternal Union of America.
Beyond his professional and religious affiliations, John found joy in simple pleasures and cherished moments spent outdoors. From swimming at the Lorain YMCA, the Oberlin Splash Zone and the Mercy Health and Fitness Center, to tending his garden and meticulously maintaining his lawn, he found solace and contentment in nature's embrace.
In his retirement years, John pursued his passions with renewed vigor. Certified as a small engine mechanic, he enjoyed repairing all types of lawn and garden equipment. John delighted in the thrill of discovery, often frequenting Jaime's Flea Market in search of hidden treasures, including watches and clocks, which he meticulously restored.
Above all, John's greatest source of pride and joy was his family. John raised his children alone after his wife’s passing at a young age. He shared a deep bond with his children, Mary (Carl) Moeller, Susanna (Steven) Fortney and John Rendulic Jr., and reveled in the laughter and love of his grandchildren, Steven Fortney Jr., Weston Fortney, Alex Moeller and Kyle Moeller. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he enjoyed every moment spent with them, especially their cherished breakfast outings.
John Rendulic is also survived by his siblings, Mato Rendulic Jr., Slavo Rendulic, and Marica Brinjak, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Danica, in 1986; his parents, Mato and Ruža, and his brothers, Ivan and Joža .
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, located at 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. Closing prayers will be held on Thursday, March 14th. at 9:00 a.m. in the funeral center followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 3655 Oberlin Ave., Lorain, Ohio. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com, where tributes and memories can be shared, honoring the legacy of a remarkable man who touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and enduring spirit.
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