Simeon Tanaskoski was born on August 16, 1941 in Rakitnica, Macedonia and reposed on October 24, 2025 in Crown Point, Indiana.  His parents were Archpriest Spiro and Popadija Ivanka Tanaskoski.   

He grew up in Bitola and completed two years of Agriculture studies after high school.  During his studies, he met Ivanka Magdenovska, who was a nursing student. 

In 1964, Simeon immigrated to Gary, Indiana; joining his parents and sister Lupka, who had immigrated in 1961.   

Sime made many friends through St. Peter and Paul, the church his father had established.  In 1965, Ivanka immigrated to Gary as well, and their 60 year marriage began. 

“Sam” was the nickname and moniker he responded to when he became a steelworker at US Steel.  He was a laborer and worked many overtimes and holidays over his 30 years at ‘the Mill’.  Ivanka worked in nursing homes until she was able to secure a job at St. Mary’s Hospital in Gary and then Hobart.  Together they were able to save and build a home on Virginia Street for their young family.  In 1977, Sime and Iva built their ‘lifelong home’ on acreage in Crown Point.

After retirement, Sime enjoyed gardening by roto-tilling with the tractor, watering the plants and eating the ripe vegetables.  Mowing the grass with the transistor on maximum volume and getting a tan was fun for him.  He loved watching Bulls basketball along with any kind of tennis or soccer.  Along the way, he became a Bears fan as well.  Sitting on the balcony counting the planes was a favorite past time.  Most importantly, he was always willing to help others in any way he could.

Simeon is survived by his wife, Ivanka and their girls;  #1 Elizabeth (Andrew Pedersen), #2 Milka (Michael Sanders) and #3 Donna (James Bonick) all of whom they are very proud.  He is survived by his brother, Jovan (Cveta) and sister, Lupka (Vangel) along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.

Simeon’s legacy are his grandchildren, who always brought a smile and sparkle to his eyes;  Alexandra, Luke, Jordan (Christopher), James, Josey, Mickey and Caroline.  

He had a sharp wit and great sense of humor with many “Sam-isms” in his vernacular.  “Tell me something good” was a conversation starter he liked to use. 

If he didn’t agree with your opinion or had to choose an option “independence what you like” was a common response. 

Sam loved Whoppers, they were “too good”!  He was admired for the quantity of food he was able to consume.  He enjoyed being in photos with friends and family while striking a ‘pose’ creating a memory. 

“TOO GOOD” was his overall disposition. 

On Sundays, the families would gather at the house for the afternoon and when it was that special time Dedo would say “you go home now”.

 In lieu of flowers, please donate to PTVM, Cystic Fibrosis Association, St. Jude or any charity of your choice.

Visitation for Simeon will be held Tuesday, October 28th from 4pm to 7pm at Protection of the Virgin Orthodox Church, 8600 Grand Blvd., Merrillville, IN with Panihida beginning at 6pm; Father Jacob Vansickle officiating. Funeral Services will be on Wednesday, Oct 29th at 10 am also at the church. Interment Calumet Park Cemetery. For further information please call Mileva Savich at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (219) 736-5840. May his memory be eternal.