Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Erika passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, just days before her 84th birthday.
Erika was born in the former Yugoslavia and lived in Dravograd, Slovenia, where she married the love of her life- Vladimir. Together, they shared an extraordinary 61 years of marriage-a partnership marked by devotion, faith, and deep mutual respect. In 1972, Erika and Vladimir immigrated to the United States. There, Erika balanced her roles as a devoted wife and mother with a distinguished professional career. Erika was an accomplished civil engineer, a path she pursued with determination and intellect at a time when few women entered the field. She later worked for General Dynamics, where she contributed to the design of submarines for the United States Navy. Above all, Erika was the heart of her family. She was a devoted mother to her three children: Aleksandra (Aleksandar) Slavkovic, Natasa (Stephen) Winowich, and Budimir (Sherri) Sokolovich. She was a deeply cherished grandmother to Dimitrije, Stefan (Nikki), Anastasia, Filip, Katarina (Jonas), Tatiana, Zack, Nikola, and Ella, as well as a beloved great-grandmother to Dessa. Erika was known for her generosity and love. Her door was always open. She offered comfort without question, creating a home defined by faith in God, warmth, and love. Erika’s legacy lives on through the family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, strength, and grace. She will be deeply missed. May her Memory be Eternal- “Vječnaja Pamjat.” In lieu of flowers- donations can be sent to Holy Trinity Cathedral, 450 Maxwell Drive, Pittsburgh PA 15236. Viewing on Friday, February 13, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at John F. Slater Funeral Home, 4201 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh PA 15227. Memorial Pomen service at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service on Saturday, February 14, 206 at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, 450 Maxwell Drive, Pittsburgh PA 15236 at 11:00 a.m., with viewing from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.