Fikret Malkoc

Fikret “Frank” Malkoc passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 68. He was born in Karlovac, Croatia, on November 4, 1956, to Branka and Nazif Malkoc, and immigrated to San Pedro, California, in 1983 at the age of 27. After moving to the U.S., Fikret often went by “Frank,” though many in the Croatian community affectionately called him “Fiki.”

Growing up, Fikret was an avid footballer (soccer player), and the beautiful game remained his lifelong passion. He often spoke with pride about his time playing semi-professionally in Nice and Monte Carlo. After settling in San Pedro, he spent countless years playing soccer “up on the hill” (brdo) with friends.

Fikret worked as a housepainter for several years, but for the last 21 years of his life, he worked as a longshoreman and was a proud member of ILWU Local 13.

Fikret lived with a rare inherited disorder, Factor V Leiden, which caused his blood to clot. In his final months, he faced a devastating melanoma diagnosis linked to his heart transplant, meeting it with the same fighting spirit he brought to every challenge.

Fikret will be remembered for his warmth and humor. He made friends wherever he went and loved joking with people, even total strangers. Always generous and thinking of others, he was known for sharing his favorite foods—pasta fazol and ćevapčići—with his friends, coworkers, and loved ones. He was deeply loved by many, and his energy was undeniably infectious. He will be profoundly missed.

Fikret is survived by his devoted wife of 32 years, Marilyn; his adored daughter, Bianca; his brother, Rasim; his nephew, Dražen Sikirica (Blaženka); and his great-nephew, Josip Sikirica. He is also survived by many wonderful friends who became his second family in San Pedro.

A funeral service will be held at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., followed by interment at Green Hills Memorial Park.