Stjepan E. Vlahovich

Stjepan E. Vlahovich, age 77, passed away on May 24, 2025.

Born on May 15, 1948, in Oakes, North Dakota, Stjepan was the beloved son of the late Steve Vlahovich and Jeanne Bassingwaite Lash . He was raised in Washington, D.C., but it was during his time as a student at The Ohio State University that he discovered his love for Columbus, Ohio—a city he would call home for most of his adult life.

A passionate traveler, Stjepan found great joy in exploring the world, especially the beauty of Croatia. Dubrovnik held a special place in his heart, particularly the serene island of Lokrum, which he visited often.

Stjepan’s life was marked by compassion, curiosity, and a deep commitment to the greater good. He was an avid reader and a talented photographer, always seeking to understand the world more fully and to capture its beauty through his lens. Professionally, he dedicated himself to energy conservation and environmental stewardship, believing firmly in the responsibility to preserve the planet for future generations. His work with the Ohio Energy Project was just one reflection of his lifelong commitment to sustainability, equality, and civic engagement.

He is survived by his godson, Zoran Zagrecki, and Zoran’s wife, Barbara, along with their two sons, Silvio and Dominik. He is also lovingly remembered by his great-niece, Stephanie Holmes, and her husband Wayne, as well as his great-nephew, Jason Brazerol, his wife Crystal, and their children. Stjepan is further survived by numerous friends across the United States and around the world, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Stjepan will be remembered for his generous spirit, his fierce intellect, and the profound impact he had on those who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the causes he championed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 8th at 2:00 p.m. at 910 Franklin Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43205, graciously hosted by Judy Sagara and Tom Sherman

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charity supporting children or students in need, or to Columbus Zoo or The Wilds in honor of Stjepan’s deep love for animals—especially giraffes, which brought him great joy throughout his life.