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Michael Christopher Jelenic
Michael Christopher Jelenic
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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Christopher Jelenic, who left this world suddenly on May 15, 2025, at age 41. Michael is survived by both of his adoring parents, his father Christopher Jelenic, and his mother Elizabeth Radwan Jelenic, his ever-loyal "MomRab". Forever cherished and remembered by his partner, Elizabeth Boomer. His memory lives on with his sister, Alicia Kalinowski and her husband Marcin with their three children, Drake, Eva, and Luka. He will always be treasured by the Palmer family, Marcy and her kids Meghan, Grant, And Brian- along with the countless friends and loved ones across the globe who will carry his memory forward with aching hearts and everlasting love.
Born on March 3, 1984, in Cleveland, Ohio, Michael was a man of boundless intellect, adventure, and generosity. He was known for his quick wit, thoughtful nature, and his ability to bring people together through laughter and warmth. Michael graduated from Saint Ignatius High School in 2002 and went on to George Washington University to complete his bachelor's degree in 2006. Michael then completed a Master's Degree in International Relations and a Doctorate in Political Science from The Graduate Institue of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland. His love for culture, travel, and human connection made every place he touched feel more alive.
Michael's love for the unknown and new challenges made his nearly fifteen-year career with the World Bank especially fruitful. As demanding as the work consistently was, Michael always looked for exciting opportunities and areas where he could grow professionally and personally. Special thanks from the family to the many World Bank mentors who encouraged and supported Michael's dreams and ambitions.
A celebration of Michael's life will be held Tuesday, May 27, starting at 10:00 am, at Sunset Funeral Home in North Olmsted, with visitation held the day prior, Monday, May 26 from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Father Dan will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
David Berger
May 27, 2025
Myk,
It´s still so hard to believe you´re gone. I keep thinking about you, and it just doesn´t feel real.
We met in Geneva back in 2007, just three roommates sharing a flat with the other David. I had no idea then what kind of friendship was about to begin. We lived together in Chemin Vert, Carouge, for over two years, but it was much more than just sharing an apartment. We were sharing our lives as young adults, figuring things out together: studies, internships, careers starting, and absolutely everything else. You were helping me with my English, I was trying to teach you French. You weren´t just a roommate. You became a real friend, one of my closest, my chosen family. And when you moved back to DC, I followed a few months later. We lived together again in Harvard Hall, and during those months, we became inseparable.
Being around you felt easy and safe. I could be completely myself with you, say anything, feel anything, and you always had space for it. You never judged. You just listened, understood, and often made me laugh when I needed it most. You had this rare quality, just by being yourself, you made the people around you want to be better, kinder. You inspired me in ways I never really told you. The impact you had on me and on my life are invaluable.
You were always there when I needed advice, especially when it came to work and life decisions. You had this calm way of seeing things clearly, and I truly trusted your opinion. You had so much drive and passion for your work, and at the same time, you never lost your sense of humor. You could always find the funny side, even when things were hard.
And God, could you tell a story. I swear, you could make a grocery list sound like an adventure. You´d start talking and within minutes, you could make a whole room light up and we´d be crying with laughter. You had this absolute gift for making life brighter, funnier, and I feel lucky every day that I got to share part of life with you.
I still remember the emails you sent me from Singapore. They were hilarious, full of your unique way of telling stories and making fun of yourself. I used to wait for them like people wait for the next episode of their favorite show. I would read them and laugh out loud, hearing your voice in every line.
One of the most special memories I carry with me is when you invited me to spend Christmas with your family in Ohio. I was far from my own family that year, and it would have been a hard time for me to be alone. But you welcomed me so naturally, and your family treated me as if I had always been part of theirs. It was truly fantastic, and I´ll never forget that feeling of warmth and belonging.
You were the best man at my wedding, and truly, one of the best people I´ve ever known. Losing you is painful in a way I don´t really have words for. But I´m deeply grateful for every moment we shared. You left a mark on my life that will never fade.
I miss you, Myk. I always will.
With love,
David
Raquel
May 27, 2025
I was deeply saddened to learn of MJ´s passing. The photo that Salam shared -of the three of us, perched on the rim of my monitor for years now-is one of my most treasured. I´ll always cherish our time together on missions in the Middle East: his unwavering professionalism, his kindness and selflessness on the job, and that sweet, warm, fun-loving spirit whenever we found a moment to relax, like the wonderful dinners talking about our families and dreams, or laughing and dancing late into the night. I´ll never forget the morning he fell seriously ill while on mission, and I kept him company for hours on the phone until he could finally speak with his family back home, a moment that spoke volumes about the brotherly bond we shared during those challenging times.
Thank you, Michael, for being such a wonderful colleague and friend. You will be profoundly missed.
With heartfelt condolences to your beloved family,
Raquel
Salam Almaroof
May 22, 2025
Salam Almaroof
May 22, 2025
MJ - You´ve left us far too soon.
I have such fond memories of working together on Iraq. Those were challenging times, but your humor and lightness always made things easier. You brought not only professionalism but also a rare warmth that made you a joy to work with.
You are deeply missed as both a colleague and a friend.
My sincere condolences to the Jelenic family.
Warmly,
Salam
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Deryck Brown
May 21, 2025
Shocked and saddened!! That´s how I felt when I heard about Michael´s untimely passing. Fond memories of working together on Zambia, our many missions to Harare together, and the wonderful dinners we enjoyed at Amanzi, Victoria 22 and other locations. You were always a stead and reliable colleague and friend. I´ll definitely miss you but I feel fortunate to have you as a friend. Rest in Peace, dear friend!!
Lydia H.
May 21, 2025
MJ - You've left us too soon. I have such fond memories of working on Iraq and Libya and going out in Tunisia together. Tough stuff that was made easier by your humor and levity. You are missed as a great colleague and a friend. My sincere condolences to the Jelenic family. Best, Lydia
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