Svetozar Valerija

Svetozar Valerija was born on October 28, 1946 in Sveti Filip i Jakov, Croatia. He was the eldest of four children and immigrated to San Pedro in 1969. Svetozar married his beloved wife Ivanka, on April 16, 1983. He worked for Todd Shipyards, Southwest Marine, and retired from the ILWU in 2013.

Svetozar enjoyed gardening, cooking, and talking about politics. He loved to watch soccer, wrestling, and football with his son, Victor. He was an incredible problem solver and could repair and build just about anything. Svetozar would never miss a Sunday barbecue with his family. He was the world’s best Dida and his life revolved around his granddaughter and best friend, Natasha. There was nothing that he wouldn’t do for her.

Svetozar was preceded in death by his parents Šime and Rozarija Valerija, his wife Ivanka Valerija, and brother Roko Valerija. He will be greatly missed by his son Victor (Kylie) and granddaughter Natasha. Svetozar is also survived by his sisters Anka and Marija, and 4 nieces.

We will miss you Tata. God bless you. Rest In Peace.