Ivan Zeleznak

A recording of the Mass of Christian Burial for Ivan will be posted after 12:00pm on January 20, 2023.

Ivan “Ivica” Zeleznak

Devoted husband, father and grandfather

Ivan Zeleznak, 81, peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2023 with his loving family by his side.

Ivan was born January 7, 1942, in Novaki, Croatia to Ivan and Ana (Benko) Zeljeznjak. Ivan was the youngest of six children and would often recount stories from his childhood in the old country.

In 1966, Ivan moved to the United States, returning to Croatia to marry Katica “Kathy” Cavlovic on May 27, 1967. Both returned to the United States where they lived their life out together and were blessed with three daughters: Angela, Kristie, and Suzie.

Ivan worked as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician for Trans World Airlines (TWA) in Kansas City, then for American Airlines until his retirement in 2004. He was a proud member of the Transport Workers Union - TWU Local 591.

In 1971, he helped establish the Croatian American Social Club of Kansas City and remained an active member throughout his life. He was very proud of his heritage.

Ivan was an avid international traveler who made sure his family experienced the world. His other hobbies included his vineyard, making wine, fishing, raising sheep, music and spending time with his family. He loved to laugh and was always ready for a good time.

Ivan is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathy, daughters; Angela Vlasic, Kristie (Blazo) Djukic, and Suzie Ashwell; grand-children; Gabriel, Mario, Stephen, Chris, Nikki and Danilo, sister and brother-in-law; Joe and Kathy Cavlovic, sister-in-law; Marica Zeljeznjak (Germany), brother-in-law; Michael Cavlovic (Australia), many nieces and nephews around the world, and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by both his parents, father and mother-in-law; Stjepan and Cena Cavlovic, grandson; Nevenko Vlasic, brothers and sister-in-laws; Drago, Mirko (Marica), Zvonko (Dragica) and Jura (Anica) Zeljeznjak, and son-in-law; Dr. Robin Ashwell.

Ivan will especially be remembered for his amazing wine, his zest for life, and his fiery spirit that served to strengthen everyone he met. Our community sadly lost a friend who never knew a stranger. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Friday, January 20th, at St. John the Baptist Croatian Catholic Church, 708 N. 4th Street, KCK. Rosary at 9:00AM, Visitation 9:30-11:00AM, Mass at 11:00AM followed by graveside service at Mount Cavalry Catholic Cemetery, KCK.NEWSPAPER OBITUARY

Ivan Zeleznak

Devoted husband, father and grandfather