Mary Mirkovich

Mary Mirkovich, a Bainbridge Island native, died in Kirkland on March 4. She was 50.

She was born to a Croatian family that immigrated from Velirat, a village on the island of Dugi Otok, on the Dalmatian Coast. She grew up on Bainbridge Island, first living in Eagledale before the family moved to Winslow in 1965.

During her childhood, Mary enjoyed swimming in Eagle Harbor and performing in impromptu neighborhood outdoor theater productions.

Her strong work ethic was honed by many summers picking strawberries at the Chukas’ berry farm. After graduating from Bainbridge High School in 1977, Mary joined Pacific Northwest Bell (now Qwest), where she recently celebrated her 30th work anniversary.

She enjoyed reading, movies, and spending time with friends. She also treasured her trips to San Pedro, Calif., to visit extended family.

Although she lived on the Eastside, her heart remained on the island. She will be remembered for her kindness, wry sense of humor and generous spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Matt and Neda Mirkovich.

She is survived by her sister, Betty Mirkovich of Bainbridge Island; brother John Mirkovich of Kingston; aunt Bosa Marinov of San Pedro; cousin Maria (Ron) Roemer and family of San Pedro; and cousins Bruno Severa of Milan, Italy and Simeone (Clarita) Severa of Anzio, Italy. She is also survived by numerous dear friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on March 14 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, with a private interment at Calvary Cemetery in Seattle.

Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association.

An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.