Erminio Peculic

58 years after emigrating from a post war-torn Yugoslavia (present day Croatia), it is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Erminio Peculic who passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of February 11th, 2025.

Erminio was born on August 10th, 1935 in Brdo, Croatia to parents Veronica and Joseph Peculic, or as some call them: Nona Vera & Nono Pepo. Erminio was the second born of 4 brothers: Ferruccio, Erminio, Anton, and Ivan Peculic. Throughout Erminio’s childhood, he spent countless hours working on his family’s farm along with his brothers, leading each day’s tasks.

When Erminio was not on the farm, he was working at a mine in Labin, Croatia or spending quality time with family and friends. At 20 years old, Erminio was enlisted in the Yugoslavian Navy; he was tasked as a diver. Living in Brdo all his life, which was completely land locked, Erminio was never exposed to open waters; however, he approached his Navy service fearlessly and in turn, succeeded greatly.

Upon emigrating to the United States of America with his beloved wife, Ida, and his beloved daughter, Gordana, the family found themselves in Astoria, Queens, New York. Erminio worked multiple jobs upon entering the United States in order to provide for his family, which included being a diesel mechanic. Erminio was a jack of all trades, which carried over in every aspect of his life, whether he had to install furniture for his granddaughter, Gabriella or fix a car problem for a family member. His hard work, talent for his craft, and dedication for his family was extremely passionate and it has never gone unnoticed.

Erminio was kind, respectful, loving, simple, patient, selfless, loyal, and of course, handsome, like Clint Eastwood. He loved his family very much and did whatever he could to provide a great life for them; a true rock. Erminio was an avid deer hunter, making frequent trips to Upstate, New York. The days he would spend in his trailer brought him immense joy; Delicious home cooked meals such as minestra and quality time on hunting endeavors with his brothers, his friend, Nikola, and brother-in-law, Boris Zahtila, just to name a few. Additionally, Erminio enjoyed watching soccer, woodwork, gardening his fruits and vegetables, his Ford, and in particular, indulging in some linguini with white clam sauce.

Erminio was predeceased by his mother Veronika in 2000, his father Joseph in 1972 and his brother Ferruccio in 2004. He is survived by his wife Ida, his daughter Gordana, his son-in-law Joel, his granddaughter Gabriella, and his brothers Anton and Ivan, along with the countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

His daughter, Gordana, would like to thank the many healthcare workers who cared for her father over the last few years. You all cared deeply for Erminio and she is eternally grateful that he had the best care.

In lieu of purchasing flowers, we ask that you make donations to St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center located in Roslyn, New York. Erminio received outstanding care at St. Francis Hospital throughout his life and we want to show our appreciation for all of the lovely doctors, nurses, and staff that cared for him.

We ask that you honor Erminio by spending as much quality time as you can with your family, hugging them, taking care of them, and telling them how much you love them, just as he did. He had a difficult transition in America; however, he persevered and lived a wonderful, fulfilling life, culminating in the epitome of the “American Dream.” We ask that everyone reflects on their family roots and please never, ever forget where you come from and the people that help you get to where you are now. Lastly, we encourage you to share any and all memories you have of Erminio.

Rest in Peace, Nono. We love and miss you dearly. ❤️


FOTO: Private