It is with the deepest sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Mary Susan Mišerda on April 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Mary was born on August 18, 1959, in Hinsdale, Illinois, to Marko and Marija (Alfirević) Mišerda.

In the early 1980s, she moved to California, where she began building a life rooted in both family and purpose. She created a meaningful career as an IT specialist and consultant in human resources, but more importantly, she built a life filled with connection, service, and love.

Her heart was always with her community. She spent many years as President of the Croatian Children's School in Los Angeles at St. Anthony's Croatian Catholic Church, where she also taught catechism. She later continued teaching CCD at St. Hedwig's Catholic Church in Los Alamitos. Guiding others in faith and culture was something she carried with deep pride.

In 2017, she accomplished something truly special by earning her double Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Computer Information Systems, with an emphasis in human resources. She never stopped growing, learning, and pushing herself to become more.

In 2021, after moving to Las Vegas, Mary faced one of the hardest battles of her life when she was diagnosed with Guillain Barré Syndrome. It left her paralyzed from the neck down, but it never broke her spirit. With strength, faith, and determination, she fought her way back. She walked again. She hiked again. She returned to the life she loved, especially her time spent with her walking group, Girls Walk Las Vegas.

Mary will be remembered for the way she lived. Her energy filled every room. Her laughter was unforgettable. She loved deeply, traveled often, and had a beautiful way of turning friendships into family. Wherever she went, she created connection, warmth, and a sense of belonging.

She was more than her accomplishments. She was a mother, a daughter, a friend, and the heart of so many lives.

She is survived by her children Annmarie Tereza, Markanthony Patković (Haruka Saito-Patković), and Domagoj Patković. She is also survived by her mother Marija Mišerda, her siblings, and a large extended family of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great great niece and nephew who will carry her memory forward.

Her passing leaves an ache that words cannot fully hold, but her love, her strength, and her spirit will remain with us always.

A private funeral service will be held for immediate family.

In honor of Mary's life, donations may be made to St. Anthony's Croatian Catholic Church https://croatianchurch.square.site/product/donation/51?cs=true&cst=custom or to the GBS CIDP Foundation https://www.gbs-cidp.org/donate/.