Svetozar Beljaković

Svetozar “Miša” Beljaković, age 86, of Clifton and formerly of North Haledon, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family that stood faithfully by his side. Born October 11, 1939, in Brestovac, Serbia, he was the son of the late Milan Beljaković and Dobrija (Simović) Beljaković. Miša spent his childhood in the village of Ljuljaci where he developed the values and resilience that would guide him throughout his life. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Ljubica (Beljaković) Atanasković.

After graduating high school in Kragujevac, Miša began studying mechanical engineering in Belgrade. Driven by ambition and a desire for greater opportunity, he made the courageous decision to leave his homeland. His journey took him through Italy before traveling on foot to France. There, he lived in Paris for two and a half years, working various odd jobs to get by while preparing for the next chapter of his life.

In 1967 at the age of 27, Miša came to the United States seeking political asylum with the support of his late cousin, Miodrag Beljaković, with only a few dollars in his pocket and a dream. Soon after arriving, he began working in a machine shop with his friend, and later the godfather to his children, Mile Marinković. Through dedication and skill, he later became a tool and die maker at Reynolds Metals Company, where he worked for 13 years.

Miša later opened his own tool and die shop, Allcan Tool & Die, in Paterson, New Jersey, which he successfully operated for several years before eventually selling. In 1988, during the asbestos remediation boom, he co-founded A-Tech Restoration with his dear friend Zijad Aganović in Totowa, New Jersey. The business later moved its offices to North Haledon and successfully operated for over 20 years. The scale of their work and reputation for excellence was reflected in a portfolio of landmark contracts for iconic institutions including the American Museum of Natural History, Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson University Medical Center, Shea Stadium, the MTA, The New York Times, and the historic Domino Sugar refinery.

Also in 1967, Miša’s future wife, Đurđica (Kuridža) Beljaković, also arrived in the United States. Their story began in Paterson when she saw him crossing Grand Street heading to the diner where her mother, the late Milica Ku ridža, worked. He instantly caught her eye and the feeling was mutual. Smitten, Miša would wait outside the diner, lingering for any chance to see and talk to Đurđica. His charm and persistence led to Miša and Đurđica eloping 8 months after meeting, later celebrating their formal marriage on April 25, 1969. They began their journey together in Totowa where they welcomed their son, Aleksandar (“Saša”), before eventually moving to their home in Clifton and then to North Haledon, where they welcomed two daughters, Kristina and Nikol (“Nina”).

Within the Serbian community, Miša earned deep respect and lasting affection from all who knew him. A brilliant mind with a sharp wit, he was affectionately known as "The Professor," a title that reflected both his intellect and the wisdom he shared so freely. He was a respected businessman and beloved boss, leading with a rare kindness, ensuring those who worked for him were always treated fairly and well taken care of. To this day, his former employees and friends speak of him with a unique reverence, often remarking that there was never, and will never be, another boss quite like him. He was a man who helped countless people without a second thought, never seeking recognition or anything in return—he genuinely wanted to help as many people as he could, both in the US and back home in Serbia.

He was an incredible storyteller, full of humor and wisdom. Whether he was at his second home in Venice, Florida, or gathered with friends, he was happiest with a deck of cards, a chessboard, or a good meal in front of him. An avid and formidable chess player, he took great pride in frequently defeating his son-in-law, a testament to the competitive spirit and playfulness that never left him. Miša, also affectionately known as “Bledi” by those closest to him, was predeceased by many lifelong friends who are certainly waiting for him now, gathered around a card table.

Above all, Miša adored his grandchildren. Watching them grow was his greatest reward, and he found profound peace in seeing his legacy continue through them.

He will be remembered for his charisma, generosity, and the remarkable journey that took him from a small Serbian village across Europe and ultimately to a life he built through hard work and perseverance in the US. He was a man well-loved and will be deeply missed.

Miša is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Đurđica Beljaković, who cared for him with unwavering devotion every single day until his last breath; his son, Saša; his daughters, Kristina and husband Srdjan Knežević and Nina and her husband Christian Kratochvil; and his beloved grandchildren, Mila (9) and Luka (7). He was also joyfully anticipating the newest addition to the family, the upcoming arrival of Nina and Christian’s first child.

He is also survived by his dear nephews, Boban and Zoran, along with extended family and friends both here and in Serbia.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Saint John the Baptist Serbian Orthodox Church, 119 Carlisle Avenue, Paterson.