Slavko "Slavkac" Draca

Slavko "Slavkac" Draca, age 79, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, in Katy, Texas. He was born on March 4, 1947, in Benkovac, Croatia, where his lifelong values, resilience, and independent spirit first took root before he eventually built a new life in the United States.

Slavko was a man who genuinely cared for others. He was always eager to lend a helping hand and stand up for what he believed was right. He could not tolerate injustice and never hesitated to champion a cause that mattered to him. Independent by nature, he did not always see eye to eye with others and was never afraid to question authority. He cherished freedom above all else and deeply appreciated the liberties he found in America, especially the freedom to express one's beliefs openly. He was also a strong supporter of the Second Amendment. Slavko loved hunting and found great comfort living in the rural community of Brookshire, Texas, where nature remained just outside his door. Yet despite building a life in America, Croatia always held a special place in his heart. Having come to the United States as a refugee following the Croatian Civil War he never completely let go of the homeland he loved. He often reminisced about his friends and neighbors, playing bocce at sunset, sharing good food, good drink, and even better company. Those memories stayed with him throughout his life.

Life was not always easy. Adapting to a new country brought many challenges, and the language barrier often became a source of laughter and cherished family stories around the dinner table. Through it all, Slavko faced life's difficulties with determination and an unwavering spirit.

He is survived by his wife Vida Draca; his sons, Petar Draca and Bozidar Draca; and his daughter, Radmila Petrovic. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Branka Petrovic, Mario Petrovic, Aleksandra Draca, and Nikolas Draca, as well as his great-grandchildren, Lena Petrovic and Vuk Petrovic. He is also survived by his sister, Ruja Kosic.

Slavko was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Petar Draca. Their memories, together with his, will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the dedicated physicians, nurses, therapists, and staff of Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital and Methodist LTAC Hospital for the exceptional, compassionate, and specialized care they provided around the clock. Your kindness, professionalism, and humanity brought comfort during an incredibly difficult time, and for that we can never thank you enough.

Dear Slavkac, we wish you peace as you meet your Creator. And if we know you as well as we think we do, try not to question His authority too much— please, no trouble on the other side.

You will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.