Zdravko Saranovic

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Steve (Zdravko) Saranovic, who left us on March 19, 2025, at the age of 63. He was a man who filled our lives with love, laughter, and countless unforgettable memories.

Steve was born on February 27, 1962, in Nikšić, Montenegro. In 1977, he immigrated to the United States, where he built a life filled with warmth, humor, and devotion to his family and friends. He was the eldest son of the late Risto and Danica (Odalovic) Saranovic and a loving brother to Ratko “Mike” Saranovic, Rajka Liberti (Saranovic), and Slavko “Sal” Saranovic.

Above all else, Steve loved being with his family. He was a devoted husband to Terri Megibow, a loving father to Melissa Megibow, and a proud grandfather to Taylor Megibow. He was also a doting doggy daddy to Luka, Novak, Hendix, and Rooney, who brought him endless joy(and ear pain)Steve was a beloved uncle to Ratko ML Saranovic, Risto “Christopher” Saranovic, Mirko Andrew Saranovic, Luke “Mike” Saranovic, the late Natasha Saranovic, Slavko Saranovic Jr., Emily Saranovic, Daniel and Ariah Liberti, and Savannah Ala and John R. Garland. He was also a dear brother-in-law to Mercedes Saranovic and John T. Garland.

Steve had a unique love for hunting—though, in reality, his version of hunting often involved sitting inside the house, watching the deer and other wildlife pass by because, as he’d say, it was just too cold outside. One time, he spotted a bear but couldn’t bring himself to shoot it because it was too beautiful. His love of “hunting” and his gentle spirit earned him the nickname “Elmer Fudd,” a name that brought a smile to everyone who knew him.

He had a deep love for the outdoors, especially riding his quad upstate, where he found peace and joy in nature. At home, he was always “fixing” things—though his fixes didn’t always work quite right, he loved playing with his tools and taking on any project with enthusiasm.

Steve also cherished his golfing trips with friends, where they proudly sported their crazy pants and created memories full of laughter. Another passion was watching his granddaughter, Taylor, dive. Seeing her perform brought back fond memories of his own days in gymnastics and filled him with pride.

Steve was a retired restaurateur who owned and operated the infamous “Hungry Peddler” for many decades. In the kitchen, Steve found another source of happiness. He loved to cook, and the smiles his food brought to everyone’s faces gave him endless joy. When he wasn’t busy cooking or tinkering, he could often be found watching old western movies and shows, a favorite pastime that never grew old.

One of the most unforgettable moments was when the family went to the Super Bowl together—though while the excitement kept everyone on the edge of their seats, Steve somehow managed to fall asleep. He had a different idea of excitement, and we wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Though he is no longer with us, his laughter, love, and the memories he created will remain in our hearts forever.

The family will host a celebration of life in Steve’s honor on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 6 PM at the Little Ferry Hose Company #1, located at 20 Marshall Ave., Little Ferry, NJ 07643.