Milanka Payich (Lekic)

Milanka Payich, a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the Josie Harper Hospice Home surrounded by all four of her children on April 3, 2017.
Milanka was born to Stojan and Cveta Lekic in Strpce, Yugoslavia on September 19, 1953. She grew up with her older brother Mile (Mike) and younger sister Sladana (Donna) and younger brother Slavisha (Carl). Her family came to America on August 19, 1969 when she was 15, and they lived in Cleveland, Ohio.
Milanka married Ivan Payich on April 7, 1974. Shortly after being married, they moved to Omaha, Nebraska. They had four children, Diane, Tammy, Daniel and Sarah.
Milanka enjoyed serving others and did so in her various positions in healthcare. She was a certified nursing assistant, certified medical assistant, medication aide, and her pride position was a restorative coordinator where she worked in the physical therapy department at a local nursing home.
Milanka loved music. She sang in the church choir and enjoyed playing the piano for Sabbath School. She also served as Deaconess. Milanka also loved her family and enjoyed cooking. Once one plate was finished, she would happily offer another and then another after that.
Milanka displayed kindness and care to everyone she met. Her persence brpught joy to all. Even as she declined over the last few years, she would smile and laugh and bring happiness to others.
She will be greatly missed by all.