Yovan "John" Mangovski's Obituary
Yovan “Dedo Yovan” Mangovski, 92, Kirkville, N.Y., passed away June 13, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his sons, their families, and extended family. He was born in Velusina, Macedonia (Former Republic of Yugoslavia), on July 8, 1927, to Bisera and Boshko Mangovski.
Yovan went to school in Velushina and Bitola and studied bookkeeping and accounting. He enlisted in the Yugoslavian Army during WWII, and served for four years as a Master Sergeant. While in the army, he served on the frontline on the border of Romania, suppressing the Russian movement into Yugoslavia. Thankful for the aid and assistance of the United States of America and England, Yovan was able to return to his family in Velushina. Upon his return, he was employed by the government cooperative where he served as an accountant.
He married Mara Yankulovich on Oct. 4, 1950, and subsequently had three children, Boshko, Vasko and Lilyanna (deceased). In October 1961, through the help and sponsorship of his father-in-law, Marko, Yovan and his family immigrated to the United States (Syracuse, New York) to be reunited with Mara's parents and her sisters.
In Syracuse, Yovan was first employed by Millbrook Bakery and then began his apprenticeship as a master butcher at his father-in-law’s business, Liberty Market (East Genesee St.). He later ventured into a partnership with his brother-in-law as owners of Collamer Stop ‘n Shop. From 1967 to 1971, he was employed at BJ Suzle Needle Company, and from 1971 to 1978, Yovan and his family owned and operated North Ave Superette (Eastwood), a neighborhood convenience store. In 1978, Yovan entered into his final and current business venture with the establishment of John and Son's Fly Road Market (E. Syracuse). Retiring in 1987, he turned over his responsibilities to his two sons, Boshko and Vasko.
Yovan was a hard worker and a family man who enjoyed hunting and gardening. His love for his family and friends was paramount. He loved to tell his grandkids the fascinating stories of his past experiences and the historical moments he experienced firsthand.
His faith and love for his church played a significant role in his life here in the United States. As a communicant of St. George Macedonian Eastern Orthodox Church, Yovan was one of the founding fathers of St. George, where he not only played an active role as a member, but, served many terms as a member of the Board of Trustees, Controlling Committee, and Running Committee.
Yovan is predeceased by his wife Mara and his daughter, Lilyanna, who passed as an infant in Velusina.
He is survived by his sons: Boshko (Sofie) Mangovski of Kirkville, N.Y., and Vasko (Elica) Mangovski of East Syracuse, N.Y.; his grandchildren: Samantha (Salvatore) Procopio of E. Syracuse; Christina (Chris) Campolo of Clarence, N.Y.; and Johnny Mangovski (Mallory Moynihan) of Minoa, N.Y.; Maria (Alexander) Stojcevski of Lemont, Ill.; Marc Mangovski (Amy Zalla) of Cicero, N.Y.; and Kathryn Mangovski of Camillus, N.Y.; and his great grandchildren: Nadia Procopio; Chloe and Camila Campolo; Lilyanna, Lana, Mila and Ryder Mangovski; Nikola and Ana Stojcevski; and Tanas Mangovski.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, private services will be held on Wednesday, June 17, at Thomas J. Pirro Jr. Funeral Home (Buckley Rd and Vickery Rd). A Trisagion Prayer will be held at 8:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by burial services at 9:30 a.m. at St. George Macedonian Orthodox Church (5083 Onondaga Rd.). Burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. George Macedonian Orthodox Church or Hospice of CNY.
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