Bio: Lesnjak, Mike and Mrjana

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Lesnjak, Malnar

----Source: Family Scrapbook

Mike Lesnjak was an old settler in Willard. He came to Willard before World War I from Saint Jost-Pri Vrhinika, Slovenia, Jugoslavia.

The History of Willard would not be complete unless the name Mike Lesnjak was mentioned. He was also one of the early settlers coming in from Waukegan presumably with the Seliskar family about the year 1911 or 1912. He cleared mud land in the Willard area and as he was a carpenter he helped build according to his story, around 60 barns and other types of buildings.

He was married but lived alone as his wife and family stayed in Jugoslavia. His wife, Mrjana, passed away around 1954. Mike died September 28, 1962 at the age of 77.

His sons and daughters are still in Jugoslavia. Although he had not seen his family for many years correspondence was kept up.

His home was later sold to Pete Belay as were other miscellaneous items. Proceeds went to his family in Jugoslavia.

Submitted by: Mary and Matt Malnar