Zivko Elik

Zivko Elik, 85, died Wednesday, October 11, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.  Zivko was born in Macedonia and embarked on an incredible journey to the United States when he was just 18 years old. His determination and strong work ethic paved the way for a life filled with remarkable achievements and unwavering love for his family. At the age of 25, Zivko returned to Macedonia where he met and married the love of his life, Penka. Together, they embarked on another adventure: returning to the United States to start their family. They settled in Bound Brook, New Jersey where they lovingly raised their children and created a warm and nurturing home.

Zivko began his career at Ethicon as a machine operator working on the production of hollow cutting-edge needles. Zivko's meticulous attention to detail and precision quickly caught the eye of the Quality Control department. He was promoted to Associate Engineer, and over the years went on to develop a patent for his innovative design. His contributions to the field left a lasting legacy, and his work continues to impact the medical industry to this day.

Zivko was not only a brilliant engineer but also a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a strong sense of family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Stevan and Kala Elik, and his brothers, Riste and Lubomire Elik.

He is survived by his loving wife, Penka, their son Joseph and his wife Joanne, their daughter Caroline Graham and her husband Robert, and their cherished grandchildren Nicole Elizabeth Karpinski and her husband Eric, Allison Jo Elik, Robert George Graham, Jr., Elisabeth Anna Graham, and Jackson Zivan Graham. Zivko also had the joy of being a great-grandfather to Aleksei Joseph and Katerina Layla Karpinski. He is survived by his siblings, Nicola Elik and Para Bendevski.

Gathering with the family will take place from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at the Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home, located at 225 Mountain Avenue, Bound Brook. Prayers will begin at 3:00 PM.  The funeral liturgy to celebrate Zivko's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 16, 2023, at the St. George Macedonian Orthodox Monastery, 185 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ 07869. Burial will follow at Bound Brook Cemetery at 1:00 PM.