Mario Suric

We’re deeply saddened to share the passing of our beloved father, Mario Suric, on May 20, 2025, at the age of 93. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments. Born on April 12, 1932, in the coastal town of Privlaka, Croatia, Mario was the son of the late Sime and Danica (Krslovic) Suric. He married the lovely Dorothy Suric (Culig) and became a devoted father to Donna Rovak (Joseph), Dennis Suric (Roberta), and Melissa Valenti.

Mario was a cherished grandfather to Jason, Jared, Vanessa, Dana, Vincent, Michael, great-grandfather to Elijah, Austin, Makayla, Gianna, and Emmery, and a great-great-grandfather to Lylah. He was also a brother to Joakim, Vinko, (both predeceasing him), and Maria, along with his many nieces and nephews.

In his early 20s, Mario left his home in Croatia seeking work and opportunities after enduring the hardships of World War II. He was just seven when the war began and faced countless challenges with his family from a young age. He often shared with us the struggles his family endured during a time when food and medicine were scarce. As a young man, Mario was involved with the small church in his town, serving as an altar server and godfather for baptisms.

Upon arriving in America, Mario found employment as a dishwasher at a diner in Hoboken, New Jersey. He became a member of the Croatian church across the river in New York City, where he made many wonderful friends and participated in various church activities, including annual trips to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for Croatian Day at Kennywood Park. It was during one of these trips that he met his “beautiful American wife”, Dorothy, who was born in Rankin, Pennsylvania. They married a year later and moved to Hoboken. Mario soon found work as a stevedore, working at several ports until his retirement in 1996. He had a passion for cooking and enjoying delicious meals, and his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. After losing his wife Dorothy in 2017, although heartbroken, Mario dedicated himself to cherishing and inspiring those around him. His radiant smile and captivating personality endeared him to everyone he encountered.

The world was fortunate to have him for 93 years. He was a remarkable man, and his absence will be deeply felt by many.

All are welcome on Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 9:30-11:30 AM, WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, 1650 Greentree Road, Scott Twp., 412-563-2800, where his Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 AM. Interment to follow in All Saints Catholic Cemetery, Braddock Hills. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Commonwealth Hospice, 4955 Steubenville Pike - Suite 125, Pittsburgh, PA 15205.

www.slaterfuneral.com