Joseph "Vinko" Mirkovich

1922 - 2010

Joseph (Vinko) Mirkovich, a longtime resident of San Pedro passed away Thursday, September 30, 2010. Joseph died peacefully at his home at the age of 88. He was born March 6, 1922 in Veli Rat, Dugi Otok, Croatia and at the young age of 13 he migrated to the United States, where he joined the US Army for 8 years and fought in WWII. He eventually settled in San Pedro. He was a commercial fisherman for over 20 years and then in 1969 he joined the ranks of the ILWU Local 13 where he was known as "Skipper Joe" and retired in 1985. He was also a member of the San Pedro Elks Club, Lodge #966. Joseph was recently preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Rajka. He is survived by his two sons, John Mirkovich and Vince (Karen) Mirkovich; grandchildren, Matthew, Melissa, Melanie, Briana and Andrew Mirkovich; brothers, Mirko (Vjona) Mirkovich and Ivo (Marija) Mirkovich; sister, Vilma Duzic and several nieces and nephews. Joseph will be fondly remembered for his generosity and his love for his family and friends. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Elvira, his wonderful and loving caregiver, as well as Dr. Peter Sliskovich, Dr. Asghar Askari, Dr. Anthony Giorgio, and the staff of 2 West at LCMH-San Pedro. Visitation will be held Monday, October 4, 2010 from 4:00 to 8:00pm at McNerney's Mortuary. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday, October 5, 2010, 10:30am at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, followed by interment at Green Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Joseph's name to the American Red Cross, 11355 Ohio Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025 or online at www.redcrossla.org. You are welcome to leave a message or share memories at www.mcnerneysmortuary.com or sign the guestbook at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.