Tuesday, March 17, 2009

A Unique Example.



He is Jacob's grandfather, but I had the chance to spend lots of time with him. I could go on about what kind of man he was, what his hands looked like, the way he spoke, his firm grip and table etiquette. But what I remember most is how he always had a smile left for me.

Ivan Radman passed away on Saturday afternoon. People all over the world will miss him. We stand taller having known him and I feel privileged to be a part of his family. We will be in Salt Lake this weekend for his funeral.

Deseret News Obituary:

Ivan Radman 1928 ~ 2009

Ivan Radman passed away March 14, 2009 in the arms of his wife and children, blanketed in the love of 30 grandchildren, 19 great-grand-children and dear friends. Born, March 22, 1928 in Radmani on the Dalmatian Coast of Yugoslavia to Joseph Radman and Natalia Stefanic, Ivan learned early the value of dedication to task, wisdom in choice as well as the perils of totalitarianism. His young years were spent tending the family's farm and animals as well as serving in their small village grocery store. World War II brought turmoil and destruction to their region with friends and family members suffering the ravages of war. Forced from his family and homeland in his teens as a political refugee, Ivan sought asylum in Italy for the duration of the war before migrating to Australia in 1949 on a program for displaced persons.

Ivan met and married the love of his life, Janet Tredrea, whose love has enriched their 56 wondrous years together. They were subsequently sealed in the Logan temple for time and all eternity. Six children were born to their union, Peter, Martin, Jordan, Donna (Smylie), JoAnne (Crook), Bronte (Clarke). Ivan became a member of the LDS church in 1952 and has engaged in faithful service as a home teacher, bishop, mission president of the Italy Milan mission and the New Zealand Christchurch mission, as well as many other callings. Ivan cherished his experiences with his missionaries and has held dear in his heart each one individually. His love of, and devotion to gospel principles has been the cornerstone of his life.

In 1978 Ivan, Janet and family moved to the United States, settled in Salt Lake City, built a home, started a family business and eventually became proud US citizens. Ivan embraced life with enthusiasm, boundless energy, abiding respect for his fellow man, unwavering confidence in the resiliency of the human spirit and indomitable passion in all his endeavors. He loved sports, especially tennis and squash. In all his pursuits, Ivan brought his best game, a generosity of spirit, relentless effort and determination. He taught by example, inspired through actions and encouraged with exhortation and compassion. His greatest joy came through interaction with his family, friends and associates.

Ivan loved life, lived each day to its fullest, always maintained a sense of humor through adversity and rose to meet every challenge. He will be dearly missed. The family extends a special thanks to the doctors and nurses of the ICU at SL Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 12 p.m. at the LDS Mount Olympus 2nd Ward located at 3862 E. Oakview Drive (4342 S). Friends may call Friday, March 20 from 6-8 p.m. at Memorial Mortuary, 5850 S. 900 E. Burial will be in Holladay Memorial Park, 4900 Memory Lane (1900 E.) Condolences and contact info: jeanie.yates@wfengineering.com

10 comments:

sharry said...

what a wonderful legacy to be missed the world over.

what a blessing to part of that legacy.

lindseyj said...

I'm so sorry. What an amazing man! I hope we get to spend some time with you while you're here. Even just a quick hug!!

Anonymous said...

What an amazing man...
Sarah you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there is anything we can do for your family.

God bless,
The Liebermans

Jessiesmylieyahoo,com said...

hewillbemissed

kristen said...

wow...Sarah after reading that and knowing from you what a truly amazing man he was, I feel honored just to have known him through your love for him. We are thinking of you all. Sending our love to you, Jake and the girls but also your entire family here and out west!
Love ya,
Gary and Kristen

jakenapril said...

Our condolences for your (and Jacob's family's) loss. He sounds like the most amazing and wonderful man. I am always impressed by those of his generation, an immigrant no less, of what life is really about and how to continue on through life's challenges. I'm sure he will be greatly missed. Hope you have a nice trip, we'll be thinking about you.

Jessiesmylieyahoo,com said...

hisarah

Laurel said...

too many grandpas are leaving lately...thoughts and prayers are with your family. hope it's a sweet reunion.

Dee said...

Please give my love to our Cobie. Great men are needed to do great things. Ivan was an inspiration to so many.

Celeste said...

What a neat man. I'm so sorry for your loss.