Elena Zestrijan

December 2, 1943 – October 15, 2025

Elena Zestrijan, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 15th at the age of 81. Born in Vladimirovac, Banat, Yugoslavia on December 2, 1943, to Petar and Draga Draksin, Elena was the cherished older sister of Doina Draksin Zivan and Petar Draksin.

Elena married the love of her life, Nikola Zestrijan, with whom she shared a life full of adventure, love, and resilience. Together they raised three children:

· Georgina “Jean” Zestrijan Barbes

· Livius “Livi” Zestrijan

· Minadora “Dora” Zestrijan Marshall

She is survived by eleven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved.

Elena’s life journey took her from Yugoslavia to Italy, then to Melbourne, Australia, and ultimately to the United States—places where she built a home, community, and legacy of love. She was a gifted cook, a passionate learner, and a natural linguist who spoke seven languages. Her professional path in finance and her second career as a court interpreter reflected her sharp mind and generous heart.

In recent years, she became a beloved member of her assisted living community, where she was affectionately known as the “Local Dispatcher.” Her compassion, wit, and warmth made a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Elena was preceded in death by her husband, Nikola Zestrijan. Her memory will be forever treasured by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.

A celebration of Elena’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 22nd at 1PM at Phoenix Memorial.