John Vukic

John was born on October 3rd, 1950 and passed away on
April 12th, 2025 at the age of 74John Vukic
October 3, 1950 – April 12, 2025
John Vukic, a beloved husband, community member, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025 at the age of 74 at his home after battling cancer. He is survived by his loving wife Luca, and by family both in Croatia and in Washington.
John's life was a testament to the American immigrant experience - a story of courage, resilience, and love for his homeland and the home he made here. He was born on October 3, 1950, in Trncina, a small village on the border of Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 17, leaving behind everything familiar in search of a better life.
Sponsored by his uncle, John arrived in Enumclaw, where he would ultimately spend the rest of his life. He enrolled in Enumclaw High School and after graduating, he got a job at Farmer's Pickle Plant. He started in an entry-level role and, through sheer determination and hard work, rose to become plant manager - a role in which he earned the respect of colleagues and the broader community. After the plant sadly closed, he went on to work for Nalley Valley and eventually he helped launch a pickle plant in Pleasant Valley, working with purpose until his retirement at 62.
Beyond his dedication to work, he dedicated his life to his wife Luca. They met in 1974 while she was here visiting family-and what started as a friendship quickly blossomed into a lifelong partnership of 50 years. They were married on February 7, 1975, in Seattle, and together they built a warm and loving home in which all were welcome. A hallmark of the Vukic home was their remarkable garden. Always bountiful with whatever was in season, John tended to his garden with the love and care he gave those around him, and he was always happy to share what he grew with those he loved (you just had to always remember that his vegetables were the biggest and best tasting). Whatever wasn't eaten fresh, he would of course pickle at home, and no friend of John's would ever be without a jar of pickles before they left his home.
John was a proud member of the Croatian Fraternal Union for over 50 years, he never stopped supporting the people of his homeland, particularly during the 90s war. He was also deeply devoted to his adopted home in Enumclaw, where he became known as someone who could always be counted on. If someone needed help, John was there.
Beyond their community in Enumclaw, John and Luca also nurtured a wide circle of friends through their regular visits to Hawaii over 33 years, a place that brought him peace and joy.
No one, however, was a bigger fan of John than children. He had a special place in his heart for kids of all ages, who were naturally drawn to his warmth, kindness, and sense of humor.
John will always be remembered as a central figure in Enumclaw and the greater Croatian community. He enriched the lives of so many, and we will all miss him dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in John's memory to the St. Elizabeth Hospital in Enumclaw, who cared for him with love during his time of need.