Maria "Mimi" Stefancic

MARIA “MIMI” STEFANCIC (nee Zakelj) age 87, beloved wife for 58 years of the late Vincent; loving mother of Donna Vombergar and Marta Futey (husband Joe); devoted grandmother of Ana, Kati Lexi, and Vince Vombergar and Joe, Maria, and Thomas Futey; cherished daughter of the late Jakob and Marija (nee Bogataj) Zakelj; dearest sister of Mario (wife Cathy), John (wife Anne deceased), and the late Rado and Gabe Zakelj; dear aunt and great-aunt of many. 

Mimi was born August 22, 1937, in Suhi Dol, Slovenia. At a young age she and her brothers endured many hardships and struggles during World War II. She was separated from her family and then eventually reunited with them before coming to America in 1956. Once in America, she moved into a home in the St. Vitus neighborhood where she learned English and worked in a factory. Her determination and strong work ethic landed her a job at GE in quality control. She married her dear late husband Vinko and started a family. She worked as a cook and baker and then went on to work in the bakery at Giant Eagle until she retired. 

Mimi was a member of the St. Vitus Altar Society and the Pristava Pensioners. She will always be remembered by her sweet smile, kind words, her graciousness, and strong faith and devotion to Mary. She loved her home that she shared with Vinko in Willoughby Hills, her neighbors and friends, her bountiful garden, and beautiful flower beds. She lived a simple life, known for her cooking and baking for others, especially her cheesecake and spending time with her children and grandchildren. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Mimi to St. Vitus Catholic Church, 6019 Lausche Ave, Cleveland, OH 44103. 

Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, February 20, 2025 at St. Vitus Catholic Church 6019 Lausche Ave, Cleveland, OH 44103 at 10 AM. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Maria at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) WEDNESDAY 4 - 8 PM.