Maria Delis

Maria Delis, 90, of Glendale, California, passed away peacefully at her home in Glendale, CA on August 30, 2025, from pneumonia related to Alzheimer’s disease.

A beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Maria’s life reflected remarkable resilience and devotion. Born on July 22, 1935, in Ponikve, Ston, Croatia, Maria survived the hardships of World War II as a child, her early years marked by resilience and strength. In 1958, she bravely emigrated to the United States in search of a brighter future, working first in her aunt’s restaurant, then as a housekeeper, and later at Farmer John in Los Angeles, where she met her beloved husband, Vladimir Delis. The couple wed on November 8, 1969, beginning a partnership defined by hard work, devotion and shared dreams. She worked tirelessly juggling a full-time job and her first child Suzana, while they built their new life rehabilitating properties, one at a time. Maria’s tireless efforts ensured her family would never face the hardships she once endured. In 1978, when her second child David was born, Maria chose to become a full-time homemaker, dedicating her life to her home and children.

Maria found deep joy in cooking and baking; and was known for her lemon-filled sponge cake, a recipe she guarded until the very end. Maria delighted in feeding the blue jays and celebrated Christmas and Easter with childlike wonder, passing on her cherished traditions. She enjoyed spending time with her grandson and made him home-made French fries, Baba’s spaghetti, and Croatian Prikle until the day she could no longer remember how.

Maria is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 56 years, Vladimir, her children Suzana and David and her cherished grandson, Niko. Her legacy endures in their hearts and memories.

Viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 9:30 AM. Funeral to follow at 10:00 AM at Forest Lawn Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91205, at the Little Church of the Flowers, with Father Ivan of St. Anthony's Croatian Church officiating. Burial will follow immediately. Friends and family are invited to a lunch reception at Oakmont Country Club, 3100 Country Club Dr, Glendale, CA 91208.