Nikola Buseski

Nikola “Nick” Buseski, lovingly known by his favorite name Dedo, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 96, surrounded by the family he treasured above all else.

Born in North Macedonia, former Yugoslavia, as the seventh of seven children, Nikola grew up believing that true wealth was found in family. Those who knew him remember an even‑keeled and gentle temperament, a playful sense of humor, and an insatiable love for sweets—his pockets perpetually filled with lollipops or candies to share. He delighted in entertaining both children and adults with jokes and his signature “No charge?” after any courteous exchange.

At 24 years old, Nikola married the love of his life, Ankica, on June 14, 1953. Together they built a life rooted in devotion, perseverance, and deep resilience. On June 14, 2025, they celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary, a testament to the enduring depth of their bond.Nikola worked as both an accountant and shoe designer, proudly crafting beautiful shoes for his wife to parade around their small eastern European town. In his youth, he served as a soldier during WWII at just 15 years old, where he quickly learned Italian out of necessity. He earned the honor of capturing the cross thrown into the frozen river during the “Blessing of the Waters” (Vodici) on four different occasions and played soccer competitively, representing his country with pride. Later in life, he and Ankica made the courageous decision to uproot their lives in Europe and immigrate to the United States. Despite the many challenges of starting over, Nikola took on any job he could to provide for his family and support their American dream as they built their real estate business. There was never a doubt he would back his children through life's twists and turns, with his ever-consistent assurance that he and Ankica were there to help make it happen.He adored spending time with his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, from teaching them how to properly hold a pencil to bedtime stories and regular teasing. His favorite pastimes included listening to Macedonian radio for news and traditional folk songs and watching WWE. Outside, he enjoyed watering both the grass and the grandchildren, joking that it was “to make sure they grow properly.”Nikola is survived by his devoted wife, Ankica Buseska; his children Tomo Buseski (Sue), Olga Jedry, and Lujza Buseska; his grandchildren Ankica Jedry (Christopher Goduto), Karina Jedry, Nicholas, Sophia and Alexandra Buseski; and by his great-grandchildren Raphael and Zlata Goduto. May his honorable soul rest in peace, and may the love, humor, and strength he brought into the world continue to live on through all who knew him.

Visitation for Nick will take place on Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge,Il. A second visitation will take place on Monday morning from 9:30 am until time of funeral service at 10:00 am at Macedonian Orthodox Church Sv Kiril i Metodij 10S330 IL-83, Willowbrook, IL 60527. Interment will follow at Irving Park Cemetery in Chicago, Il.