Miodrag “Djoko” Nikolic, 86, died Feb. 28, 2026.
He was born May 17, 1939, in Sarlinac, Serbia. After completing military service in Yugoslavia, Mr. Nikolic attended Allied Craftsman Trade School in Austria, where he learned masonry and structural engineering. He immigrated to the United States in 1963 and became a naturalized citizen in 1972.
Mr. Nikolic was a master stone mason and highly sought-after craftsman known for his attention to detail and work ethic. He designed and built hundreds of fireplaces, accent walls and grand entryways throughout Chicagoland in commercial and residential properties. He continued working into his late 70s and was a member of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers for 59 years, attaining lifetime membership status.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances Nikolic, who died Oct. 27, 2023.
Survivors include children Mare, Mira and Toma; and numerous grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 14, from 10 to 11 a.m. at New Gracanica Serbian Orthodox Monastery, 35240 W. Grant Ave., Lake Villa, followed by funeral services.
Burial will follow at New Gracanica Serbian Orthodox Cemetery, Lake Villa.