Ivan Suryan

Ivan Suryan, of Bainbridge Island, died on Sept. 24 at his daughter’s home on Bainbridge Island. He was 98.

He was born on Feb. 26, 1911 in Vela Luka, Croatia, immigrating to America in 1939 and settling in Anacortes, where he worked as a fisherman until his retirement in 1983.

In 1956, he returned to Croatia to marry Helen Zitkovich, whom he met through a picture he saw at a friend’s home. For many years Ivan operated the F/V Inventer, while Helen stayed home to tend garden and raise their two children. In 2002, they moved to Bainbridge Island to be closer to family.

He will be remembered for his work ethic, his storytelling, his sense of humor, and his amazing memory. Even in his last weeks, he could recount how many fish he caught on which boat in almost any year. He faithfully kept a daily diary for over 60 years.

He was preceded in death by Helen, his wife of 51 years, and by three brothers and two sisters.

He is survived by his son John (Monica) Suryan of Bellevue; daughter Irene (Marc) Smith of Bainbridge Island; and grandchildren Joseph, Nicholas, Miranda and Sophia.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 3 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Interment will take place following the mass at Port Blakely Cemetery, with a reception to follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bainbridge Island Fire Department. Arrangements are by Cook Family Funeral Home. An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.