Draga Marasović (F)
b. 3 March 1903, d. 26 June 1992
Pedigree
Family_Line=M
Res_Rqrd=Y

�����Draga Marasović was born on 3 March 1903 at Split, Dalmatia, daughter of Andrija Marasović and Ivanica Marasovich. She was given the name 'Draga' (diminutive is Dragica) which was name of a Serbian queen; because Caroline's father liked everything Serbian.¹

Draga Marasović at age 4 and Ivanica Marasovich at age 35 and Zora Marasović at age 8 and Marija Ivanica Marasović at age 3 arrived as immigrants aboard the SS Pannonia on 19 September 1907 at Ellis Island, New York, New York. Final destination was with Andrija Marasovich at 1801 South 2nd Street St. Louis, Missouri.²



Draga arrived as an immigrant aboard the ship SS Pannonia from Trieste, Italy on 21 September 1907 at New York. She never registered as an alien. The Marasovic family went to live on the SE side of St. Louis near the Mississippi River. Andrew got work cleaning railroad engines in a roundhouse for Iron Mountain Railroad. That was the only job he ever held. They lived 3 blocks from his job.³ Caroline went to SS Peter/Paul School in St. Louis. Caroline got caught once stealing coal from the rail yard and chased away by a RR man. The RR man not knowing who she was gave her coal buckets to her father Andrija as a gift.⁴
She lived with Andrija Marasović and Ivanica Marasovich and Zora Marasovich and Marija Ivanica Marasović in October 1907 at 1801 South 2nd Street, St. Louis, Missouri.² She would wash brother Edward's diapers by hand.³ She lived with Andrija Marasović and Edward Joseph Marasovic, Marija Ivanica Marasović, Zora Marasovich and Ivanica Marasovich in 1911 at 1621 South 2nd (rear), St. Louis, Missouri. Spelling of name 'Andrew Marasofitch' in St Louis city directories is wrong, but believe we have the correct Andrew. Andrija is listed as a laborer. Family members are not listed. Could not find Marasovich name in St Louis city directories of the same time frame.^5,6,7,8,9 Draga had to quit school after about 4th grade to go to work. She gave all her earnings to parents while working. Her first job was at a box factory when she was 14 years old. Pay was about $4 per week.³

She lived with Andrija Marasović and Ivanica Marasovich and Marija Ivanica Marasović, Edward Joseph Marasovic and Annie Marasovich circa 1920 at 9120 Mackinaw Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. From the census, it appears to be a multiple unit home with at least four families; all with origins in Croatia.¹⁰

Draga Marasović was enumerated with Andrija Marasović on the census of 5 January 1920 at Chicago as Caroline Marasovich. Listed as 'Jennie',16 years old, year of immigration 1907, alien, not attending school, able to read and write, born in Croatia, father and mother born in Croatia, speaks English, occupation 'car worker in Foundary'.¹¹
After moving to Chicago she worked at the Pullman Car factory. Had to get up at about 5AM and returned about 6PM. Had to take three streetcars to get to Pullman. She did this from 1920-28 at the Pullman Car Works of the Pullman-Standard Car Manufacturing Company at 11001 Cottage Grove Avenue Chicago 28, Illinois. She was an upholstery sewer. In a statement, dated 26 March 1957, her earnings were given as:

�����1920�����$464.63
�����1921�����$758.32
�����1922�����$1,067.59
�����1923�����$1,188.19
�����1924�����$1,495.22
�����1925�����$1,553.17
�����1926�����$1,605.67
�����1927�����$1,528.51
�����1928�����$777.11
�����Total�����$10,438.41

She bought a $200 dining room set with her own money savings for the house at 10216 Avenue L since Jakov didn't want to spend the money.
However, she did have a wash machine with a wringer early in the 1930s.
She worked as a seamstress in the upholstery department (also worked for a few weeks in May 1935) at the Pullman Car Works of the Pullman-Standard Car Manufacturing Company at 11001 Cottage Grove Avenue Chicago 28, Illinois. Started at age 17. Employment interupted a number of times for 'reduction in force'. Apparently quit in late September 1928 -- possibly to get married. Carolyn told grandson Michael Quirke that she did piece work on 'couches, chairs, cusions, shades, mattresses for two cents apeice'. Parents did not allow her to cash her pay checks - they 'gave me carfare and a lunch'. Carfare was seven cents each way. Had to get up at about 5AM and returned about 6PM. Had to take three streetcars to get to Pullman. In a Pullman statement, dated 26 March 1957, her earnings were given as:

�����1920�����$464.63
�����1921�����$758.32
�����1922�����$1,067.59
�����1923�����$1,188.19
�����1924�����$1,495.22
�����1925�����$1,553.17
�����1926�����$1,605.67
�����1927�����$1,528.51
�����1928�����$777.11
�����Total�����$10,438.41.^12,13,14
She attended the marriage of Marija Ivanica Marasović and Mate Kovačević on 26 February 1922 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Croatian Catholic Church, 2864 E. 96th Street, Chicago, Illinois.¹⁵
Draga received a letter about 9 May 1926, from Filip Prkić,,brother of Ivanic Marasovich,, at Island of Vis, Dalmatia. Describing his family life.¹⁶ She filed a Petition for Naturalization on 25 June 1927 at Cook County Court House, Chicago, Illinois.¹⁷ She met Jakov Radja in the Chicago East Side after moving there in 1920. She was engaged twice before Jakov and gave rings back to John Bracevic and George Kuzecevic.³ She lived with Jakov Radja in 1929 at Greenbay Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. The newlyweds lived in a room rented from a Mr. Celich for $25/Month. Lived there for five months (June through October) until they bought the house at 10216 Avenue L. Mr. Celich was angry when they moved since he expected long term renters.¹⁸ A description of an engagement shower for Jakov and Draga appeared in an unknown local Croatian newspaper. The translation was made by Helena Strugar of Zagreb.

Draga married Jakov Radja, son of Grgo Rađa and Iva Borozan, on 4 May 1929 at Chicago. Wedding attendees included Andrija Marasović, Ivanica Marasovich, Edward Joseph Marasovic, Sister Mary Andrew Marasovich Order of Carmel, Joseph August Granich, Florence Barbara Granich, Marie Evelyn Granich, Genevieve A. Granich, Lorraine Rose Kovack, Unknown Padzich, Nikola Malenica, Marija Ivanica Kovack, Mate Kovačević, Zora Granich, Joseph Melvan, Joseph Komar, Joseph Hrstich, Mate Hrstich, Petar Koljanin, Mary Hrstich, Anna Hartman, Agnes Unknown, Antoinetta Prkić, Zorka Begich, Paul Begich, Philip Martin Granich, Dorothy Josephine Granich, James Kovack and Mary Furlan. Mr. Padzich was present at the wedding because he had a car. Miss Agnes was a girlfriend of Edward Marasovich. Uncle Nick Malenica presented a big radio as a wedding present. Anna Hartman was the bride's friend from St. Louis. The groom wore a rented tuxedo. The bride wore a $25 dress from Marshall Fields. After purchase of her wedding dress, Draga had to buy cleaning fluid to clean it since it had sat in store for a long time. After cleaning, the dress was hung in the attic to dry. It did not smell afterwards. A week before the wedding Jakov bought home furnishings from The Davis Company in the Chicago Loop: a dining room table and chairs for $205 and 3 rugs and pads for $139. The wedding was financed completely by them; including groceries worth $200. Draga didn't want a 'collection' of money gifts at the wedding reception. Reception was held for about 25 people at her parents' house. On 26 April 1929, Caroline ordered wedding reception rental plates(60), cups(30), utensils(50 sets), 36 chairs, etc. for a total of $22.24 (discounted to $20) for delivery on Friday 3 May to the Marasovich house. They needed about three gallons of wine belonging to her dad Andrija. Ivanica (Draga's mother) came over the next day seeking return of the three gallons. Andrija complained afterwards that the wine returned was not as good as the wine used. The wedding trip was to Benton Harbor, Michigan staying with the Miletich family. They had a room and meals for a week or two for about $20. Benton Harbor was then known as a health baths spa.

Radja cousins in Croatia say that Jakov wanted to move back to Croatia with his savings and buy a piece of land in Ogorje that Josip picked out for him. Plans changed when he met Dragica (Caroline).^19,20,3,21
As of 4 May 1929,her married name was Carolyn Radja.¹⁹ The wedding party was described in a local Croatian newspaper.

Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 29 July 1929, from Iva Borozan at Ogorje Donje, Dalmatia. Contains miscellaneous greetings.²²
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 29 July 1929, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.²² She lived with Jakov Radja from 17 October 1929 to 15 July 1989 at 10216 Avenue "L", Chicago, Illinois. Jakov and Draga bought the house and moved in that same day (paying the movers $5). The former owners were James and Emma Harris, who were getting a divorce after two years in the house. The Harris's father had bought the lot and built the house for them. Jakov and Draga paid $5,500 with a down payment of $4100, one hundred of which was in gold coins. (Jakov had saved $8,000 by time of marriage in 1929. He did this in eight years since landing at Ellis Island! Zora Granich had said that Ivanica had given Draga money for the house purchase since it was bought so soon after the marriage.) Home furnishings cost them $4,000. Also understand that she bought a $200 dining room set with her own money savings for the house since Jakov didn't want to spend the money. (However, she did have a wash machine with a wringer early in the 1930s.)

There was a $1400 mortgage with payments of $50 per month for 3 years. Cousin Nikola Melenica gave a $300 radio wedding present to the newlyweds. The mortgage was bought in 1930 by Mr. Julius Lencioni who rescued them from default as the Great Depression started by allowing interest only payments. But according to Draga, they didn't pay the interest either. They finally defaulted on interest payments in 1934. But Mr. Lencioni was very kind and did not evict them. Small home loans were bought by the US government in 1934. To get the US loan the government wanted certain repairs and painting but contractors wanted exorbitant prices which they said could be passed off to the government. The government reps told Jakov to do the work himself.

The US home mortgage is documented in their Certificate of Title in Cook County Illinois (Volume 612 Page 6 No. 303010) to Jakov Radja, et ux dated 2 August 1934. The mortgage was for $1750 (Homeowners' Loan Corporation of Washington, D.C.) with 15 years of monthly payments of $13.85 starting July 1934 with an interest rate of 5%. The home was appraised at $4806. Of the loan $1400 was due to Mr. Lencioni's mortgage and the other $350 due for repairs, appraisal, attorney fees recording, etc. On obtaining this new mortgage, Mr. Lencioni forgave the outstanding interest of $186. In 1938 they couldn't pay even the $13.85. The loan was finally paid off on 3 March 1944 (Draga's 41st birthday) as shown on the title certificate.^23,24,25,26
Jakov Radja and Carolyn Radja bought property at Chicago from James Harris and Emma Harris on 17 October 1929. The Radja's bought the property from the Harris's.²⁷
Draga received a letter about 11 January 1930, from Filip Prkić,,brother of Ivanica Marasovich,, at Island of Vis. He describes his hard life in Jugoslavia and losing his first wife and four daughters during World War I.²⁸
Carolyn received a letter about 1 February 1930, from Iva Rađa,mother of husband Jakov, at Ogorje, Dalmatia. Expresses surprise at the expense of the house the Radja's just bought in Chicago. She signed her letter as "Ivka".²⁹ At age 26, Carolyn became the mother of James Eugene Radja on 9 February 1930 at South Chicago Community Hospital, Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Titzel came to the house at first sign of birth pain and took Carolyn to the hospital and waited until the baby was born at 2:22 AM. Carolyn stayed in the hospital for eleven days at a cost of $4/day plus miscellaneous items for a total of $60.50. James weighed eight pounds & fourteen ounces.^30,31

Draga Marasović was enumerated with Jakov Radja on the census of 22 April 1930 at Chicago as Caroline Radja. Listed as 27 years old, married at age 26 years, born in Yugoslavia, father born in Yugoslavia, mother born in Yugoslavia, can read and write and speak English, native language is Croatian. Immigrated in 1907, not naturalized, occupation is 'none'.³²

Jakov and Draga received a letter about 1 May 1930, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.³³
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 26 November 1930, from Iva Borozan at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.³⁴
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 26 November 1930, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.³⁴ The Dalmatinska Sloga (Dalmatian Concord) of South Chicago, with its 134 members became affiliated with the Croatian Fraternal Union in January 1931. For over fifty six years, CFU Lodge 17 continued to label itself as "Dalmatinska Sloga CFU Lodge 17" on 28 January 1931. Carolyn Radja did not join until March 1936. On 11 November 1987, Lodge 17 was transferred to Lodge 229 of South Chicago.^35,36
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 13 February 1931, from Iva Rađa at Ogorje. Sent some photographs and mentions a family breakup plus hello from a Granic person.³⁷ At age 28, Draga became the mother of Dolores Marie Radja on 17 September 1931.
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 4 December 1931, from Iva Borozan at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.³⁸
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 18 July 1932, from Iva Borozan at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.³⁹
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 30 August 1932, from Iva Borozan at Ogorje Donje. Family news. The year date of this letter is a guess.⁴⁰
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 30 August 1932, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Family news. The year date of this letter is a guess.⁴⁰ She served as Secretary of Lodge 17 (and Nest 442 for children) of the Croation Fraternal Union for almost 50 years. All the kids were also members and carried life insurance policies. The 'Lodge Box' was a handy banker for many of those years.⁴¹

Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 16 November 1933, from Mate Rađa.⁴² She was employed by Pullman Car Works for two or three months before getting laid off circa 1934 at 111th and Cottage Grove Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.⁴³
Draga and Jakov received a letter about circa 1934, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje. They would like to send a photgraph but it's too hard. Greetings from many family members.⁴⁴ The foregoing work permitted some house mortgage payments. Mother, Ivanica Marasovich would baby-sit the kids.⁴³ She and Jakov Radja obtained a home mortgage for $1,750 on 9 June 1934 at Chicago. Payments were monthly at $13.85 at an interest rate of 5% per year. The loan document seems to indicate that Mr Julius Lencioni of 7601 Clyde Avenue, Chicago put up $1,400 in bondsand cash to guarentee this loan. This latter confirms conversations with Jakov and Draga.^45,46,3 At age 31, Carolyn became the mother of Donna Jean Radja on 28 August 1934. During the bad years of the Great Depression, food was bought by credit (pishi book) at Lalich's grocery store several doors away at 102nd and Avenue L. The credit bill went up to as much as $186. Milk was delivered in glass quart bottles for nine cents a quart. All clothes including coats, except for stockings and shoes, were made at home.⁴³
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 13 October 1935, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.⁴⁷ She successfully applied for membership in Lodge 17 (Dalmantinska Sloga) of the Croatian Fraternal Union of America in March 1936 at Chicago, Illinois. A medical exam was required and a $1,000 death insurance policy was issued. The medical exam was performed by Lodge doctor Paul Starcevich of the Sick Committee. The application was approved by Lodge President Anton Veich and Secretary Paul Melvan.³⁶
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 6 January 1938, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.⁴⁸
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 26 March 1939, from Mate Rađa at Ogorje Donje. Contains miscellaneous greetings.⁴⁹ She was naturalized on 21 June 1940 at US District Court, Chicago, Illinois, Her Naturalization Certificate was #4943263, Petition # 196719. She was listed as black hair and brown eyes and gave her weight as 170 pounds with a height of five feet 2.5 inches.⁵⁰ At age 37, Carolyn became the mother of Thomas Gregory Radja on 3 October 1940 at Chicago. She witnessed the First Holy Communion of Jimmy Radja and Dolores Marie Radja on 11 May 1941 at St Francis DeSales Catholic Church, 102nd Street and Ewing Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, The pastor at St Francis would not allow those receiving First Communion to wear a white dress unless they were students at the St Francis elementary school. So, before taking the picture shown she had to go home and change clothes. After Jimmy and Dolores received First Communion the family walked over to the Marasovich grandparents home to celebrate.⁵¹ She was elected as Secretary (T.) of Dalmatinska Sloga Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 for calendar year 1944 in 1943 at Chicago.⁵² She and Jakov Radja obtained 'Certificate of Title' upon paying off their mortgage on 3 March 1944 at Chicago. The mortgage was for $1,750.^46,26 She was re-elected as Secretary (T.) of Dalmatinska Sloga Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 for calendar year 1946 in 1945 at Chicago.⁵³
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 5 December 1945, from Josip Rađa at Ogorje, Dalmatia. The letter discussed the recent death of brother Mate and cousin Nikola Malenica. He also discusses the recent war and other family matters.⁵⁴ She was an attendee when Andrija Marasović and Ivanica Marasovich were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with family members on 2 March 1947 at 10732 Avenue "O", Chicago, Illinois.⁵⁵
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 16 March 1947, from Josip Rađa at Ogorje Donje.⁵⁶
Carolyn received a letter about 14 June 1947, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar, Bosnia.⁵⁷
Carolyn received a letter about 25 August 1947, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁵⁸
Carolyn received a letter about 8 December 1947, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁵⁹
Carolyn received a letter about 20 January 1948, from Jandra Rađa,Jakov's sister. She is sad about not receiving letters. Her son Ivan adds a comment.⁶⁰
Carolyn received a letter about 15 February 1948, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁶¹
Carolyn received a letter about 14 June 1948, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁶²
Carolyn received a letter about 16 July 1948, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar. She is thankful for all the clothing recently received.⁶³
Draga received a letter about 17 October 1948, from Josip Rađa,Various family matters..⁶⁴
Carolyn received a letter about 8 December 1948, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁶⁵
Carolyn received a letter about 9 February 1949, from Anka Žuljić at Mostar.⁶⁶
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 19 March 1949, from Mate Rađa at Split. Talks about family matters and needs some combs. Advises them not to visit Jugoslavia at this time.⁶⁷
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 14 April 1949, from Marta Rađa,describing her family's condition, at Ogorje Donje.⁶⁸
Draga received a letter about 5 May 1949, from Mate Rađa,Family news., at Split, Dalmatia.⁶⁹
Jakov and Draga received a letter about 31 December 1949, from Josip Rađa. Contains miscellaneous greetings.⁷⁰
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 5 January 1950, from Ante Rađa at Split.⁷¹
Draga received a letter about 6 January 1950, from Mate Rađa at Sinj, Dalmatia.⁷²
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 21 January 1950, from Mate Rađa at Sinj. Asks for a coat.⁷³
Draga received a letter about 21 January 1950, from Vera Prkić,asking for a gift of a pair of ice skates, at Domjanićeva 18, Zagreb.⁷⁴
Draga received a letter about 2 February 1950, from Josip Rađa,Various family matters..⁷⁵
Draga received a letter about 4 April 1950, from Vera Prkić,expressing thanks for gift of ice skates and describing her schooling, at Zagreb.⁷⁶
Draga received a letter about 7 April 1950, from Vera Prkić,expressing thanks for gift of ice skates, at Zagreb.⁷⁷
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 April 1950, from Mate Rađa at Sinj. Says hello to all the kids.⁷⁸
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 15 May 1950, from Mate Rađa at Split.⁷⁹
Draga received a letter about 12 January 1951, from Mirko Tudor at Maksim Gorki 71, Split, Dalmatia. He expresses deep appreciation for her sending a bag of flour to them in Jugoslavia.⁸⁰
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 1 February 1951, from Mate Rađa at Split.⁸¹
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 1 May 1951, from Iva Rađa at Ulica Šantića B116, Stanišić, Serbia. Gave thanks for packages received and asked for more old clothing. Includes a thanks from her sister Pera for earrings.⁸² She attended the graduation of James Eugene Radja on 4 June 1951 at US Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland.⁴¹
Draga received a letter about 14 October 1951, from Pera Rađa,daughter of Josip Rađa, at Ogorje Donje. She just got married and needs clothes or money.⁸³
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 15 March 1952, from Mate Rađa at Split. Anxious about planned trip to America.⁸⁴ She attended the marriage of Caroline Elizabeth Gould and James Eugene Radja on 29 August 1954 at North Island Chapel, San Diego, California.⁸⁵ She purchased a CFU endowment policy worth $500 in April 1956. Required a monthly payment of $2.15 for 32 years, until 1988 at which time she would receive the $500 or upon death, her husband Jakov would receive the money.³⁶ Mother Ivanica lived with Draga for a time after father Andrija's passing. This arrangement caused a serious rise in blood pressure for Draga to the point that her doctor, Dr. Neal, advised her to move Ivanica elsewhere.⁸⁶ She attended the marriage of Donna Jean Radja and John Quirke on 11 October 1958 at St Francis deSales Catholic Church, 102nd Street & Ewing Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. She was re-elected as Secretary (T.) of Dalmatinska Sloga Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 for calendar year 1961 in 1960 at Chicago M2.⁸⁷ She and Edward Joseph Marasovic, Zora Granich, Sister Mary Andrew Marasovich Order of Carmel and Marija Ivanica Kovack were the heirs of the estate of Ivanica Marasovich probated on 27 October 1961 at Probate Court of Cook County, Richard J. Daley Center, Chicago, Illinois. Caroline Radja and Edward Marasovich acted as Executors.

They were 'bonded' for $11,500 for faithful discharge of their duties.

The estate was valued approximately as $5,000 Personal and $5,000 Real Estate.

The heirs were identified as Edward Marasovich, Caroline Radja, Mary Kovack, Zorka Granich and Anna Marasovich (aka Sister Mary Andrew)

On 27 October 1961, Caroline Radja was called to testify as to the legitimacy of the five children heirs of Ivanica.

On 20 November 1961, Dr. Leo H. Holm, M.D. filed a claim for $25 against the estate. His service was for anesthesia for a fractured hip on 28 June 1961.

For a fee of $13 the probate was published in the 'Chicago Daily Law Bulletin' on 31 October 1961 and November 7-14 1961.

Mr. D.M. Knight and Counsel Vincent Knaus were called to testify, on 27 October, that they witnessed the signing, on 11 September 1958, by Ivanica of the will being probated. Official Reporting Service of the Probate Court billed the estate $17 documenting the will proof. This was a revised will from the one signed on 22 August 1957. This new will included in the probate file is illegible.

On 30 November 1961, Mr. Jerome J. Smerz, appraiser, testified that no 'goods or chattels' of the estate have come to his knowledge.

The Claude E. Griesel Mortuary, represented by Grace Griesel, submitted a voucher of $1,701.05 for 'Directorial Services' in the funeral of Ivanica. This included $795 for the casket.

On 1 November, the Executors submitted to the Court an inventory of estate assets:
1. Unecumbered and unimproved Lot 13, adjacent to 10732 Ave O, Chicago.
2. Unecumbered Lot 14 improved with a one and a half story frame residence containing two apartments, 6 rooms up and 3 rooms down.
3. Unecumbered and unimproved Lot 15, adjacent to 10732 Ave O, Chicago.
4. Savings account at Steel City National Bank account #17959 for $5,513.20
5. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company policy #56855751, dated 22 April 1918, on life of Ivanica, proceeds of $50.10.

Total cash proceeds of $7,112.11 minus costs for various administrative fees and services (including $375 for each of the two executors) of $2,262.00 and debts of $1,742.05 leaving cash on hand for distribution of $3,108.06. The distribution to each of the five heirs was then $421.61 plus $1,000 to Caroline Radja according to the will dated 11 September 1958. Sale proceeds of the three lots and building is NOT mentioned.⁸⁸ On 5 November 1962 the title to the real estate (three lots and one building) Of Ivanica Marasovich was transferred to her five heirs Edward Marasovich, Caroline Radja, Mary Kovack, Zorka Granich and Anna Marasovich.⁸⁹ On 23 December 1963 the title to the real estate (three lots (13, 14 & 15) and one building) of heirs Edward Marasovich, Caroline Radja, Mary Kovack, Zorka Granich and Anna Marasovich from Ivanica Marasovich was transferred to Angelo and Hanna DiCianni of Chicago. No sale price was mentioned.^90,91 Angelo & Hanna DiCianni, purchasers of Ivanica Marasovich's inherited three lots immediately secured a mortgage from The Steel City National Bank of Chicago for $12,500 for lots 14 & 15. It can be assumed that this is close to what they paid the heirs on transfer of the title. So the heirs received about $2,500 each.⁹²
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 February 1965, from Josip Rađa.⁹³ She traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as CFU Lodge 17 delegate to the CFU quadrennial convention. She attended the marriage of Jeanne Scott and Thomas Gregory Radja on 21 August 1967 at First Congregational Church, 1047 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, Illinois.⁹⁴ She was re-elected as Secretary (T.) of Dalmatinska Sloga Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 for calendar year 1971 in 1970 at Chicago. Note that whe was also elected as the Governor for Nest 442 (Upr. gn. 442). Nests consisted of minor children members. Notices could not be found in the Zajedničar for the years 1961-69, but it is known that she served in those capacities for that span of years as well.⁹⁵ She traveled to SanFrancisco, California as Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 delegate to the CFU quadrennial convention.⁴
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 April 1972, from Pera Rađa. She speaks of family matters.⁹⁶ She and Jakov Radja endorsed a will on 26 July 1972 at Chicago. The will left all of their estate to their four children equally divided.⁹⁷ She and Jakov Radja travelled by airplane in August 1972 to Dalmatia. This was their first and only visit to their native land. Draga kept putting off the trip because of fear of flying. Jakov threatened to go with son Tom instead of her. On their visit to Ogorje Donje, they took along a newly purchased refrigerator to help one of Jakov's relatives.^41,85
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 27 December 1972, from Ante Rađa at Split.⁹⁸
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 3 January 1973, from Josip Rađa.⁹⁹ She witnessed the change of command of James Eugene Radja and Carol Radja on 1 June 1973 at US Navy Electronics Engineering Center, Portsmouth, Virginia.⁴¹
Jakov and Draga received a letter about 27 June 1973, from Pera Rađa at Split. Talks about marriage of daughter Ankica.¹⁰⁰
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 4 July 1973, from Josip Rađa.¹⁰¹
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 5 August 1973, from Jela Rađa at Split. Jela remebers Jakov & Draga's visit last year. Part of the letter is from Jela's mother Marija who thanks Jakov for gifts.¹⁰²
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 23 January 1974, from Josip Rađa.¹⁰³
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 29 July 1974, from Josip Rađa. Most of the letter dictated to one of Jozo's sons.¹⁰⁴
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 25 August 1974, from Josip Rađa.¹⁰⁵ She and Jakov Radja were receiving medical insurance from Republic Steel in 1975.¹⁰⁶ She was re-elected as Secretary (T.) of Dalmatinska Sloga Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 17 for calendar year 1975 in 1975 at Chicago. Note that whe was also elected as the Governor for Nest 442 (Upr. gn. 442). Nests consisted of minor children members. Notices could not be found in the Zajedničar for the years 1971-74, but it is known that she served in those capacities for that span of years as well.¹⁰⁷ She traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as CFU Lodge 17 delegate to the CFU quadrennial convention.
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 January 1976, from Dragica Rađa,and sister Nada Rađa, at Solin, Dalmatia.¹⁰⁸
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 3 April 1976, from Ivan Rađa at Split. Notifies of the death of his father Josip.¹⁰⁹
Jakov and Carolyn received a letter about 9 September 1976, from Ivan Rađa at Split. Mentions that his mother is sick and that no one lives in Ogorje any more.¹¹⁰ She was ill with a heart attack in 1978.⁸⁶
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 24 May 1978, from Pera Rađa,daughter of brother Josip, at Split. She discusses various family activity.¹¹¹ She and Jakov Radja celebrating their fiftieth wedding anniversary in May 1979 at Chicago.⁴¹
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 1 April 1980, from Jakov Rađa at Solin. Providing lots of family news.¹¹²
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 23 October 1980, from Pera Rađa at Split. Discusses family matters and deaths from disease.¹¹³
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 15 December 1981, from Pera Rađa at Split. She talks of Melissa or Carol Radja's and David Frost's visits to Jugoslavia. The year of the letter is available from the envelope.¹¹⁴ From the 1982 and 1983 CFU forthcoming officer/delegate election announcements we can see that Carolyn was still serving as a Lodge 17 officer at the age of 80. From a listing in the CFU Zajedničar, we can see that Lodge 17 membership in 1982 was at 158. Also, Nest 442, for the children, had 33 members.¹¹⁵
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 March 1982, from Pera Rađa at Split. Her mother has just died.¹¹⁶
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 6 April 1982, from Pera Rađa at Split. Mentions possible visit of David Frost.¹¹⁷ She was awarded $3,100 in a St. Francis de Sales Parish raffle during the church's 60th Annual Summer Festival. On 20 July 1982.¹¹⁸ She was ill with colon cancer polyps removed (ten inches of the colon) by surgery in 1983.⁸⁶
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 24 January 1983, from Pera Rađa at Split. She talks of family matters and the impending visit of Dolores Frost. Year of the letter read from the envelope.¹¹⁹ Jakov Radja and Carolyn Radja was visited by Gregory Andrew Radja who travelled in 1983 to Chicago.⁴¹ She was ill with a life threatening malignant melonoma (Level 4) on a leg requiring surgery in 1985.⁸⁶
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 27 May 1985, from Pera Rađa at Split. Talks about family matters.¹²⁰
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 5 October 1985, from Pera Rađa at Split. She would like their children to visit Jugoslavia.¹²¹ Jakov Radja and Draga Marasović was visited by Jandra Rađa who travelled from Croatia in May 1986 to Chicago. Vinko Rađa accompanied them.¹²² She and Jakov Radja celebrated his ninetyth birthday in September 1986 at Chicago. The family from all over the country participated.⁴¹ In 1987 CFU Lodge 17 merged with CFU Lodge 229. So the Radja's ended over fifty years relationship with Lodge 17. Lodge 17 was founded in 1895 according to the CFU computer database.⁴¹
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 8 January 1988, from Pera Rađa at Split. Talks about family matters.¹²³
Carolyn and Jakov Radja received a letter about 10 January 1988, from Jakov Rađa at Solin. Expresses thanks for a letter received. Mentions status of his family.¹²⁴
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 17 May 1988, from Pera Rađa at Split. Talks about family matters.¹²⁵
Draga and Jakov Radja received a letter about 12 January 1989, from Pera Rađa at Split. Talks of David Frost's visit from Dubrovnik.¹²⁶ She suffered a fall in 1989 and required hospitalization. Her doctor advised help via a nursing home. She resisted at first, but eventually relented. She and husband Jakov entered the same nursing home at the same time.⁸⁶ Jakov Radja, Draga Marasović, Donna Jean Quirke, John Quirke, Carol Quirke, Michael Joseph Quirke and Sheila M. Quirke attended the wedding of Philip J. Reece and Sharon Quirke on 16 September 1989 at St Jude The Apostle Church, 880 East 154th Street, South Holland, Illinois.⁴¹ She attended the burial of Jakov Radja in October 1989 at in the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery located in Calumet City, Illinois.¹²⁷ She was described as Height: 5' 2", Weight: 132 pounds 0 ounces, Medical: Diabetes meilitus; Hypertension; Chronic renal failure. Suffered severe Osteo Arthritis. Operation for Melanoma cancer on leg in 1987??. Circa 1990. She died of Ischemic Cardiomyopathy and Coronary Artery Artherosclerosis plus other significant conditions including Diabetes Melitus, hypertension and chronic renal failure on 26 June 1992 at Americana Nursing Home, 2145 E. 170th Street, South Holland, Illinois, at age 89.¹²⁸ She was buried on 29 June 1992 Calumet City. A number of family and friends made contributions to the funeral including: Mr & Mrs John Melvan, Mr & Mrs Steve Drozda and Mr & Mrs John Rupcich.¹²⁹ Carolyn Radja's estate distribution was handled by son Thomas Radja. Total distributed was about $122,000, equally among each of the surviving four children.¹³⁰ RADM and Mrs. S.D. Frost made a contribution towards the renovation of the Naval Academy's Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in honor of Mr & Mrs J. Radja. A seat plate with the inscription: "MR. AND MRS. J. RADJA TRUE NAVY PARENTS THE FROSTS" will be at Seat 21 Row 31, Section 5.¹³¹

Last Edited=27 Jul 2009