Nikusor Popi, age 60, passed away on October 9, 2026. Born on June 20, 1966, in Zrenjanin, Yugoslavia, Nikusor later made his home in Cleveland, Ohio, where he built a life defined by steadfast dedication, warm presence, and deep care for those around him.
For more than 20 years, Nikusor worked at Allied Tool and Die Inc. Beginning as a press operator, he advanced through consistent effort and commitment to become Shipping Manager—an achievement that reflected his reliability, strong work ethic, and pride in doing things well.
Nikusor was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Tacijana Popi; his mother, Marija; his brother, Kristijan Popi; and his father-in-law, Simion Jovica. He is survived by his father, Vikentije Popi; his step-mother, Ana; his mother-in-law Saveta Jovica, his daughter, Monica Popi (Jon); and his beloved granddaughters, Tatiana and Isabella. He is also survived by his sisters- and brother-in-law: Titiana (Marinel) Cornea, Ileana (Orlando Torres) Jovica, and Tibi Jovica (Katherine). Nikusor was a dear uncle to Andrea Cornea, Izabel Jovica, Victoria Torres, and Marcus Jovica, and a great-uncle to Zayn and Julian. He also held close a lifelong bond with his best childhood friend, Jonjel Oprean (Lavinelija).
A man of simple joys and genuine passions, Nikusor loved fishing and followed soccer with true devotion, proudly supporting FK Crvena Zvezda and the Columbus Crew. He was also known as a grillmaster and a generous cook for those he loved—Cevapi and Paprikash among his signature dishes—offered not just as meals, but as a familiar way of gathering people together. His greatest joy in life came in the time he spent with his grand daughters. Creating many memories together and their shared love of George's Kitchen. Those who knew him best will remember his quick wit and the way humor came naturally to him, as well as his appreciation for mathematics and the quiet satisfaction of a problem well understood.
Visitation will be held at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home, 14768 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111, on October 14, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Saracusta Service will take place the same day at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home on October 14, 2026, beginning at 5:00 pm.
Funeral Service at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home at 10AM Friday.
A Graveside Service will be held at Woodvale Cemetery, 7535 Engle Rd, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, on October 15, 2026.
Nikusor will be remembered with respect and gratitude—for his devotion to family, his steady presence, and the enduring ways he brought laughter, loyalty, and care into the lives of others.
