Dushanka Petrovich

MADISON- Dushanka Petrovich, age 94, died peacefully on Friday, December 18, 2015 surrounded by family and friends during her gradual transition from this life to the next.

Dushanka was born on October 26, 1921 in Belgrade, Serbia to Goyko and Maximilliana Djermanovic. She spent her childhood and early adulthood in Belgrade where she led a very active life athletically (tennis and skiing), musically (violin) and professionally through her work at the Belgrade Opera House. She was well traveled, well educated, and multilingual.

Dushanka met the love of her life, Michael B. Petrovich, Ph.D., twice, first in their early twenties, when Michael was on assignment in Belgrade on behalf of the United States government, and then again nearly a decade later soon after the end of WWII. Upon this second meeting they were married in Europe, and then settled in the United States, where Michael began his university teaching career. After teaching assignments at Harvard and Berkley, Dushanka and Michael decided to make their home in Madison, to become part of the university community and to raise their family.

Dushanka was a dedicated wife and mother, although she was an active part of her community and church, as well. In particular, she was dedicated to causes such as League of Women Voters and the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, where she sang in the choir directed by her husband, and engaged in the good works of the Ladies Philoptochos Organization. Dushanka maintained her Serbian heritage through language, friendships, and wonderful culinary and musical traditions. She will always be remembered for her love of conversation, musical talents, and the power of her Turkish coffee.

Dushanka was preceded in death by her husband, Michael B. Petrovich, her parents, her brother, and her beloved niece. She was also preceded in death by her four dearest friends with whom she shared close relationships starting in childhood.

She is survived by her daughters, Vera (Peter Petropoulos) and Nina (Thomas Bartell); and her beloved grandchildren, Christina, Stephanie, and Alexander.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the staffs of Agrace HospiceCare and Heritage Senior Living for helping our mother feel cared for and respected. Dushanka Petrovich loved well and was well loved. May her memory be eternal.

A funeral service will be held at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 11 N. 7th St, Madison on Monday, December 21, 2015 at 11 a.m. with father Michael Vanderhoef presiding. A luncheon will follow the service and burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. A visitation will be held at church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.

Cress Funeral Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
(608) 238-3434