Stevan Krkljus

Stevan Krkljus, a cherished father and grandfather, skilled carpenter, and beloved member of the Berrien Springs community, passed away at the age of 80 on February 10, 2025. Stevan was born in the town of Sajkas, Serbia on July 8, 1944. He was the son of Slavka and Jovan Krkljus and grew up with his three younger siblings Rade, Stojan and Kathy. Stevan learned the craft of wood working in his late teens when he also chose to be baptized in the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Stevan went on to serve in the army in the city of Skopje, Macedonia. Due to the communist regime in Yugoslavia, Stevan left the country and went to Vienna, Austria and from there to Cleveland, Ohio in 1968 and finally to Chicago, Illinois in 1971. 

Stevan married Anica Didara with whom he had two children: son Edwin and daughter Sylvia. Stevan desired the best environment for his children to grow up in and in 1986 moved to Marusevec, Croatia with his family. Stevan maintained two residences as he provided for his family - still working in Chicago and visiting his family regularly. Stevan was a proud owner of residential buildings in Chicago and practiced his craftmanship in carpentry, flipping houses and was everyone’s favorite handyman until his last days. It has been said of him that he had “golden hands” as he created rooms, bathrooms, decks, kitchens and anything he was requested to build, even a dog house. Stevan completed his home in Berrien Springs in 2017 and became a permanent resident in the local community.

Stevan was well known for telling stories as he enjoyed reading on many different topics, his favorite being history and religion. Stevan enjoyed a few different hobbies throughout his life such as raising chickens, fishing and shopping for a good bargain. Stevan will be remembered as a loving son as he cared for his mother in the last months and days of her life. He will be remembered fondly and lovingly by his grandchildren as he loved to play with them and make them laugh. His jovial countenance and kindness, always willing to help someone in need will be remembered by many. He loved watching movies on VHS tapes, and completing crossword puzzles - these were his favorite pastimes. He would also spend a lot of time talking on the phone with his friends and family. He also was an avid gardener and made it a habit to plant a garden every year.

Stevan is survived by his son, Edwin Krkljus, and daughter, Sylvia Bowen who will carry forward his memory with every act of kindness. He is also survived by his siblings Rade Krkljus, Stojan Krkljus and Kathy Dukaric.

Stevan Krkljus was the embodiment of a life well-lived. His gentle spirit, handy nature, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye to Stevan, we celebrate a life that was rich in dedication to those he loved, laughter, and the beauty of everyday moments. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all the lives he touched with his generous soul.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, Michigan. A funeral service will be held for Stevan on Saturday February 22, 2025 at the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church in Berrien Springs, Michigan at 4:00 PM. A time of visitation will occur an hour before the service starts at the church. A burial will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery in Berrien Springs on Sunday February 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM.