"Everyone that interacted with Goran knew he was different, he could talk to anyone and charm them with his charisma and personality," the GoFundMe states.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a mother and son died just days apart in a home in Coober Pedy, Australia. 34-year-old Goran Illich was found dead on November 12 by his mother Elizabeth. She also passed away just three days later. Goran was reportedly well known in Coober Pedy, a remote town located 850km north of Adelaide. His cause of death is yet to be released.
"Goran Ilich was popular among all age groups," the Coober Pedy Regional Times wrote in a tribute. "He had a natural charm and was well-mannered and polite." Local community members are calling the tragic incident a "double tragedy." The Regional Times reported that in the early hours of Monday morning, "a grief-stricken Elizabeth Ilich awoke with chest pains and called friends for assistance." She was rushed to a hospital but died a few hours later after arriving. The paper noted that "friends have related that Ms. Ilich had a heart condition and believe that the grief from her son's death caused a heart attack."
Coober Pedy residents are mourning the death of Goran Ilich and his “grief stricken” mother Elizabeth who died weeks later, after waking with chest pains. @EvangelinePoly #TheAdvertiser https://t.co/gLBusQznoo
— The Advertiser (@theTiser) November 25, 2022
A GoFundMe had been set up for Goran, describing him as "a beautiful soul taken away too soon." The fundraiser was started by family friend Petar Belosevic who also spoke of how charming the young man was. "Everyone that interacted with Goran knew he was different, he could talk to anyone and charm them with his charisma and personality. Goran has left an impact on all of us in so many different ways and so many other cities," it said. The campaign has raised $44,000 so far.
There was an outpour of love from local community friends as well as friends of Goran who posted tributes on the fundraiser. "Our most sincere condolences. May God give you all strength," Jimmy Nikoloudis wrote. "Condolences to the family. Goran will be forever missed and the world will always be less bright without him," Chantelle Bamford mourned.
"Goran was larger than life! We are shocked at his sudden death. Throughout the pandemic, Goran helped me stay sane and I'll miss our chats about God and music. My 3yo son adored Goran and always asked when he was coming over. Our love and thoughts are with Goran's family. I cannot explain life's tragedies, however, know this: Goran is cheering us all on from a higher place in heaven. Love and blessings to everyone", wrote Gregor Jeffery.
His friend Luka Belosevic took to Facebook to show his respects to his friend writing, "RIP my brother Goran Ilich. I'll miss you so much." He also said he would be updating the GoFundMe soon “to include relevant information about Elizabeth and Goran’s arrangements”. “Unfortunately there is a huge delay in the hospital system and the coroner has still not examined the bodies and as such the funeral date is still unknown,” he wrote. “Thank you all for your patience.” Goran is survived by his father Dragan Ilic, and his brother Zoran Ilic.
References:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/burial-of-goran-ilich
https://cooberpedytimes.com/news-paper/
https://www.facebook.com/luka.belosevic.92/
Cover Image Source: GoFundMe
