Blazius Marcus Radakovich was born at old St. Vincents Hospital in Portland. He was the son of Croatian immigrants Joseph and Vinka (Crljenko) Radakovich and grew up in Slabtown area of northwest Portland. Early education included St. Patrick grade school, where the nuns changed his name from Blazius to Billy.

He was drafted after graduating from Lincoln High School into the Navy and served aboard ship for three years in the Pacific Fleet during WWII. He graduated from University of Portland in 1951 on the GI Bill. During this period he also played semi-pro baseball. He began and ended his professional career with Multnomah County. He held positions in the Sheriff’s Office, Civil Defense, Tax Department, Budget Office and lastly as Director of Elections. His career was highlighted by many firsts. He was the first in the nation to computerize tax compilation and statements. He championed the adoption of vote by mail in Oregon. Lastly he was appointed by then Governor Bob Straub to be the first lay person and President of the Oregon Dental Board. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sophie Anna (Bulich) Radakovich; and sister, Eva Polich.

When asked what he wanted most in life he always said “good kids”. He had four children and five grandchildren. His eldest son, Dr. Joseph Radakovich, is an oral surgeon in private practice in Portland. Joseph is married to wife Debby and has two children, Sam and Rosalyn. Michael Radakovich, an independent businessman and owner of Summit Advisors Northwest. Mike is a financial and estate planner in Portland. James Radakovich and wife Veronique reside in Paris, France where he is a professional artist. Ellen Radakovich Harrison, is married to her husband Ed and have three children, Ed, David and Sophie. Ellen is an RN with a master’s in science. She is a nurse case manager with The Standard insurance company. He will be missed by all.

Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday October 29, 2016 at St. Patrick Church. Private interment will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Remembrances and donations to be sent to the St. Patrick Slabtown Scholarship Fund at the University of Portland of which he was one of the founders.

Funeral Mass

11:00 AM ,Saturday, October 29, 2016
St. Patrick Church

Notes: Private interment will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.