January 9, 2026
Dear Residents,
Subject: River Wilderness Resident – Steve Zlokovich
It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my husband Steve Zlokovich. During our 24 years living in River Wilderness, we have made many friends and had amazing experiences enjoying all the amenities of the club and community. Steve especially who was an avid golf participant in many leagues. Everyone recognized his laugh heard throughout the club and loved hearing his stories about his travel experiences. He lived life to the fullest in everything he did. Being very social, Steve was usually at every party, club event and a variety of activities.
Steve spent most of his childhood growing up in Hollywood, CA during the 50’s & 60’s- it was the best this city has ever had to offer. A very proud Marine, Steve served 18 months in Okinawa as 1 of his assigned deployments. He flew missions to Vietnam as a flight engineer. His last station was at the Glenview Naval Air Station where we met while I was a junior in high school. We celebrated our 50th anniversary on May 31st of last year and are very proud of our 2 children, Melissa and Nick. Along with our daughter-in-law Ashley (Nick), Artie (Melissa) and 3 special grandchildren, Sierra, Jayden and Ellie, we have a full family.
In April 2022, Steve was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer that traveled to his bone. Following almost 4 years of many treatments at Moffitt, he lost the battle with cancer. It was his wish to be at home throughput his health challenges and when the final time came. Our family did our best to honor his request and luckily when Steve succumbed to his illness on December 30th, he was at home.
Back in 2022, we decided the best solution would be to combine households with our son Nick and his family – then a 1,300 sq ft in-law suite remodel followed taking almost 1 year to complete. It was less than half of our original 3.000 sq ft garage so we still have a 3 car spaces. Steve and I were very happy to have our own place where we could go visit Nick, Ashley and our 2 grandchildren Sierra (17) and Ellie (10) who lived just steps away. After 3 years, I think all of us would agree we made the right decision. Now when our daughter Melissa comes to visit from MI with Artie and Jayden, we have plenty of sleeping arrangement options. My very spiritual cousin, Beth, said God had a plan for us when we purchased our home in 2001.
In the last few years, one of Steve’s priorities has been embracing his Presbyterian faith, the religion he was raised. He has made great friendships with the congregation at Christ Presbyterian Church, especially Pastor Chad and Steve’s close church buddy Tarek. This church has really been an amazing support system displaying their Christian values to assist Steve during his treatments by volunteering to drive Steve and visit him at our home, not to mention sharing many prayers.
Thank you to everyone who has offered our family support during this difficult time. I am really blessed to have wonderful friends who continue to reinforce their commitment to me and our family.
Best from Janet Zlokovich
