Verka Urdarevik

Meeting Verka Urdarevik for the first time, few people would realize what an extraordinary woman she was. Verka always introduced herself simply and modestly, not emphasizing her degree and achievements. What was hard to overlook, however, was her obvious joy in life. With her vibrant, colorful jewelry and bright smile, Verka was a woman who projected energy and happiness. From her many patients to her friends, co-workers, and beloved family members, Verka brightened and enriched the lives of everyone who was lucky enough to know her.

Verka was born in Kriva Palanka, Macedonia, to proud parents Stanko and Lozena Stanojkovski. Stanko supported his family as an accountant, while Lozena took care of the household. Stanko had always hoped that his first child would be a girl, so he was delighted when Verka was born. Verka had a special relationship with her father, and was very close to him as a child. She was also close to her mother, and one of her favorite activities was helping her mom in the kitchen. Respectful and obedient, Verka always helped out in the house and around the yard, often volunteering for difficult jobs.

When Verka was still young, her family moved to Skopje, the capital city of Macedonia. This move changed Verka’s life, since there were many opportunities in the capital that were not available in her hometown. Verka was a good student, quick to learn, and excelled in sports and music. She graduated from Korchagin High School in 1970, and went on to complete a pre-med program and a medical degree.

Verka was married on February 8, 1987. The ceremony was held in the biggest hotel in Skopje, with over 500 guests attending. In the years to come, Verka and her husband were blessed with three children, two daughters and a son. Verka was a wonderful mother, caring about even the minor details of her children’s lives. Family was always the most important thing Verka’s life, and she made sure their home was happy and harmonious. The greatest days of her life were her wedding day and the days her children were born.

Professionally, Verka chose to specialize as a psychiatrist. Her kind and understanding nature made her a natural for this kind of work, and she quickly earned the respect of patients and colleagues alike. Verka was passionate about her job, and got great satisfaction from the knowledge that she was improving the lives of her patients and their families. Her patients were close to her heart, and she loved telling her family about patient success stories. Verka was involved in a number of professional organizations, including the American Psychiatric and Neurology Organization. She enjoyed the chance to talk shop, and was committed to keeping abreast of new advances in psychiatric medicine.

Whenever she got the chance, Verka took the opportunity to travel. She found it fascinating to visit new places, and even a short trip was a treat. At home, Verka enjoyed cooking and shopping. With a simple but classic style, Verka was very conscious of what she wore. She loved finding the perfect outfit or accessory, and bonded with her daughters over picking out clothing for special occasions. She also loved cooking, and often prepared delicious and elaborate meals for guests. She constantly invited friends over for dinners and parties, and delighted in making her guests feel at home.

Most of all, Verka loved spending time with her family. She was very proud of her children, and always told her friends and co-workers how well each of them were doing. She stayed intimately involved in their lives, and took great joy in helping them to achieve their goals.

Vibrant and joyful, kind-hearted and hard-working, Verka Urdarevik was a devoted wife, a loving mother, an outstanding psychiatrist, and a loyal friend. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her many friends and beloved family members.

Verka Urdarevik, of Portage passed away on Friday, August 10, 2012 at the age of 56. She is survived by her husband, Slobodan; three children: Dragana, Bisera, and Aleksandar. She is also survived by her brother: Dragan (Emilia) Stanojkovski; father and mother-in-law: Radisav and Dosta Urdarevik.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4 to 7 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (269-344-5600). There will be a graveside service on Wednesday at 1 PM at the Portage Central Cemetery.

Please visit Verka's memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can sign her memory book online. The family would appreciate memorial donations be directed to the family, to help cover her medical expenses.