Vera Kastratovich

Vera Kastratovich (Kostich) age 88, passed away peacefully on Monday December 9, 2025 at Gracewood Senior Living, Lino Lakes, MN. In her final years, she struggled with dementia, but she never lost her grace, compassion, kindness and gentle smile. She always had a compliment and kind word for everyone she encountered.

Vera was born November 8, 1937 in Belgrade, Serbia. There she met her husband Branko, and they emigrated to the USA in 1970. Vera and Branko raised their beloved daughter Yelena in south Minneapolis, MN. A very educated woman, Vera spoke four languages and spent many years working in the Russian Language section of Wilson Library at the University of Minnesota.

Vera is preceded in death by her parents, Dragoslav and Vukosava Kostich; her brother, Nikola Kostich; and her husband Branko Kastratovich. Vera is survived by her daughter Yelena (Thomas) Jahnsen, and grandchildren Alexander and Natalie Jahnsen.

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, Dec 18th at 10 a.m. at Simple Traditions by Bradshaw, 671 Snelling Ave S, St Paul, MN. Internment with immediate family members will follow at Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.