RIP John “Ivan” Filcich

[Joyce Clyde]

From: Jana Filcich Ashbrook

If there was one person who put every ounce of spirit into living life and creating joy, it was my dad.

Friends, light a candle and put on a song. 

My beloved dad, John “Ivan” Filcich passed away a little after 8pm on May 11, 2026, at the age of 101 11/12ths. He was home, comfortable; we were all together. He crossed over as delicately and dignified as he danced all these years. 

We are grateful that it was only 9 days from John’s last dance, Drmes & waltzing to Sinovi in Seattle , to his last breath.  The last month of John’s life he enjoyed his 102nd birthday celebration, and other wonderful parties. 

John enjoyed every dance and interaction he had with friends these past few years. 

He didn’t just love and live life 100%, he lived it 102%. Thank you to everyone who helped make his last years not just comfortable, but so incredibly special.  

One of the founders of Balkan Folkdance in the USA, lifelong dance teacher, music researcher & producer, festival founder & director, mentor, father, grandfather, partner, uncle, cousin, son, and instigator of joy - thank you John Filcich for all you have done for our world and mine.

 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1490994402704434

[Donna Frankel]

Thank you Jana for sharing this very difficult news with us, your folk dance family. We have all lost a major treasure, teacher, founder, choreographer, friend, partner, and true gentle man. Mr. Filcich truly was one of a kind.

But for you, who has had her father for so long, life without him, will be another challenge. Know that he spoke of you often, that he was proud of the person you are and so appreciated your devotion and care all these years, when you have children that also need you and many responsibilities in addition.

May the many incredible memories we have of Ivan "John" Filcich be a blessing to us all. John was an extraordinary man and we have him to thank for so many things  including his starting the Kolo Festival in San Francisco, Festival Records in Los Angeles, and being an amazing inspiration  to so many.

I pray that Our Lord grant you and your family extra strength at this most difficult time. 

With sympathy to you and your family,

Donna Frankel

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