Bronko Marinkovich

Bronko Marinkovich went home to be with his Lord and Savior on April 10, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on January 25, 1950, in Lippstadt, Germany, Bronko’s life was a testament to courage, love, and adventure. As a young child, he immigrated with his family to the United States through Ellis Island, a journey that marked the beginning of an extraordinary American life. He was raised in Gary, Indiana, and graduated from Horace Mann High School. Following his education, Bronko served his country honorably as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His dedication to service was a reflection of his steadfast character and patriotism. After returning home, Bronko pursued higher education and earned an engineering degree from Ivy Tech. His career as a service engineer allowed him to travel the globe, visiting Mexico, Europe, South America, Asia, and nearly every corner of the United States. Of all his travels, his most cherished were the adventures shared with his son and daughter during their younger years. Bronko was a man of many interests and hobbies. He had a passion for grilling, a fierce love of racquetball, and a fascination with metal detecting. He was also a fan of harness racing and frequently visited Balmoral Race Track. Bronko had a soft spot for his West Highland Terriers—Barklee, Catone, and most recently, Maddie—who brought him constant companionship and joy. In retirement, Bronko embraced life on the road. He and his beloved wife Mary traveled extensively in their 33-foot Fleetwood Bounder RV, accompanied by their loyal Westies. The open road, ever-changing scenery, and peacefulness of nature brought him great joy and contentment. Bronko is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Mary H. Marinkovich; his devoted children, Nathan (Ginger) Marinkovich and their children Niko and Ava, and Joann Marinkovich, along with her beloved dogs Buddy and Jax. He also leaves behind his stepchildren Jeff (Angela) Boyd (Heather, Andrew, Chandler, Alan); Edward (Nadine) Boyd (Zachary, Erin, Ethan); and Dawn (Keith) Hartsell (Alyana, Xander, Justin, Stephen, Michael, Chaz). Bronko is also survived by his brother Rodenko (Patricia) Marinkovich, sister Radmila Maric, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, great-grand stepchildren, and friends who will miss his kindness, wit, and stories dearly. He is preceded in death by his father Nadeljko and mother Anna Marinkovich; siblings Ronko Marinkovich and Dragica (Savo) Baljak; stepbrother Zivko Bohan; brother-in-law Nikola Maric; niece Marija Maric; and step-grandson Trevor Wilde. Bronko lived a full life defined by faith, family, service, and adventure. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or faith organization. A memorial visitation will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 12 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Pastor Rusty Shields officiating. www.burnsfuneral.com. "Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23 ________________________________________

Bronko Marinkovich

January 25, 1950 - April 10, 2025