Miroslav “Miro” Gono, 69, of Kenosha, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Aurora Medical Center in Kenosha, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 2, 1954, in Slovakia, formerly known as Czechoslovakia, he was the son of the late Emil and Stefka Gonovi.
Miro’s early years were marked by dedication and service. After completing trade school, he was drafted into the military, which was mandatory in Czechoslovakia and served honorably for two years. On September 25, 1976, he married the love of his life, Bozena “Bozka” Kadnarova, beginning a partnership that would span nearly five decades.
In 1983, seeking new opportunities and a better life for their family, Miro, Bozka, and their two children immigrated to the United States. They first settled in Chicago, where Miro took his first job as a dishwasher at Riverside Restaurant. Despite the challenges of starting over in a new country, Miro proudly claimed his Slovak American Heritage, rising above challenges through his resilience and work ethic.
In 1986, the family moved to Kenosha, where they decided to settle and raise their family. In 1987, Miro and Bozka established MBG Painting and Decorating, a business they operated with pride and commitment until 1994. Their entrepreneurial spirit then led them to open Little Europe at Timber Ridge, a beloved establishment in the community. After selling Little Europe Restaurant, they continued their entrepreneurial journey at the Kenosha Harbor Market, where Miro’s passion for cooking and connecting with people flourished.
In his brief time in retirement, Miro found great joy in fishing, a pastime that allowed him to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. He was also an avid fan of the Chicago Blackhawks, Milwaukee Bucks and the Green Bay Packers, and he loved cooking for his family and friends. However, above all, Miro cherished his family. His love and devotion to his family were evident in everything he did.
Miro’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, dedication, and love, which he instilled in his children, but his most profound legacy lies in his only grandchild, Alex.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Bozena “Bozka” Gono; his daughter, Susan Hurtz and grandson, Alex Hurtz, Juri Drab, his cousin and “right hand” and a community that was touched by his kindness and generosity. He will be deeply missed but remembered by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Stefka Gonovi and son, Jozef “Misko” Gono.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the medical staff at City of Hope Cancer Treatment Center of Zion, IL and Aurora Medical Center of Kenosha, WI for all the care and compassion they showed to Miro.
Service Date August 10, 2024
SERVICE LOCATION Great Lakes Church
A memorial service to celebrate Miro’s life will be held at Great Lakes Church, 7600 75th St, Suite 220, Kenosha, WI 53142 on Saturday, August 10, 2024 beginning at 5:00 PM.
A link will also be provided to live stream the service via YouTube.
