Victor Leo Mladic Jr.

1944 - 2026

Victor Leo Mladic Jr.
Born: March 5, 1944
Died: January 31, 2026 in Joliet, IL
Victor "Vic" Leo Mladic, Jr., devoted husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong Illinois resident, passed away surrounded by love. He lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty to family, and a true zest for life.
Born to Ann and Victor Leo Mladic, Sr., Vic was the second oldest of seven siblings and grew up in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, where he learned early the value of responsibility, grit, and looking out for others.
Vic is survived by his loving wife, Sheree (Abels) Mladic; his children Jeff Mladic (Tricia), Scott Mladic (Stacey), and Elizabeth "Lizzie" Mladic; and his loving grandchildren Abigail, Jackson, and Joshua. He is also survived by his brothers James Mladic (Virginia), Richard Mladic (Julie), Robert Mladic (Patricia), and William "Harpo" Mladic (Janet); his brother-in-law Jeff Abels; and a special mention of his devoted caregiver niece, Sara Abels-along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Elizabeth "Betty" Lany and Susan Engels.
Vic proudly served as a Chicago Fire Department firefighter with Truck 2 in the 1970s and later built a respected career as a member of Plumbers Local 130, as well as owner of Parkside Construction and Brothers Construction. Known for his unmatched work ethic, he often outworked men half his age and mentored countless individuals across the Chicagoland construction community.
Later in life, Vic made his home in Seneca. In his younger days, he loved racing at Santa Fe Speedway. A lifelong Chicago Bears superfan, he famously drove a van in the 1980s with the license plate "Da Van." He also proudly supported the Chicago Wolves, especially as his son Jeff continues to work for the organization. Known for his iconic mustache and big personality, Vic left a lasting impression wherever he went.
Victor "Vic" Leo Mladic, Jr. will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Heartfelt gratitude to Lightways Hospice for their loving care.
Please omit flowers, donations to NAWS of Mokena or One Tail at a Time Chicago or any Animal Welfare group of your choosing.
Arrangements entrusted to Hann Funeral Home Bridgeview and will be held 2/13/26.
"May the road rise to meet you, the wind be always at your back, and may Chicago forever remember one of its own."