Very Reverend Stavrophor Bogdan Zjalic, born on August 30, 1938 in Gredjani, Yugoslavia fell asleep in the Lord on August 16, 2022 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Hobart, Indiana. Father Bogdan is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Melanija (nee Radisic), children Vera (Miladinovic), Sava, Stefan and (adoptive guardian to his niece) Stojanka Zjalic, daughter-in-law, Stojanka (nee Bogosavac), brother, Branko, sister, Mica Pavlovic (nee Zjalic), as well nieces and nephews residing in Canada and in former Yugoslavia. “Deda” (“Grandpa”) is also survived by his 4 beloved grandchildren with whom he shared some of his greatest joys in life: Anastasija, Elena, Nina and Roman Vasilije.

Father Bogdan Zjalic attended Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary in Jordanville, NY and was ordained into the Serbian Orthodox Church priesthood in 1969 and served as a parish priest to congregations throughout Canada and in Chisholm, Minnesota prior to his retirement from active clergy duties. He founded many parishes in Canada, served as an executive member of the Canadian Serbian Orthodox Diocese and, during his retirement, shared his pastoral gifts with the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church parish in Merrillville, Indiana.

Father Bogdan felt that his accomplishments and his compassion and patience in dealing with others were made possible by God’s grace, Wisdom and Love. His family and friends were touched by his empathy, love, patience and spirituality. “Vjecnaja Pamyat” (“Memory Eternal”)

Visitation will be Friday, August 19, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm at St Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN with a Pomen Service at 7pm. V. Rev Marko Matic officiating. Divine Liturgy Saturday August 20, 2022 will begin at 9am with Funeral Service to follow at 1030am. Interment Holy Cross (St Sava) Cemetery Merrillville, IN. For further information please call Mileva or David at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (219) 736-5840