Ružica Ćejvan

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ružica Ćejvan, who left this world on January 24, 2026, in Boone, Iowa. Born on October 14, 1944, in Zagreb, Croatia, Ružica graced the lives of those around her with unparalleled kindness and warmth.

For thirty remarkable years, Ružica dedicated herself to the art of teaching as a Middle School Music Teacher at Esad Midžić Middle School in Banja Luka, Bosnia. Her passion for music and education could be seen by her students, whom she loved as her own children. She cherished her memories of teaching and often spoke fondly of the many lives she touched throughout her career.

On August 15, 1970, Ružica married Edin Ćejvan, in Banja Luka, Bosnia. Together, they created a beautiful family, who will all forever hold her memory in their hearts. She delighted in the joys of being a grandmother, leaving behind her beloved grandchildren: Matteo Lokmic, Emma Lokmic, Marina Borkovic, and Ana Borkovic, who were the light of her life.

Ružica's journey took her from her childhood in Zagreb to Banja Luka, where she spent three decades, before moving to Zadar, Croatia, and eventually settling in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1999. Throughout her life, she embraced travel, enjoyed spending quality time with her family, and found solace in the world of music.

Up until the very end, Ružica maintained her grace, compassion, appreciation for beauty, love of family and friends and expressed gratitude for her life.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Edin Ćejvan, and her loving daughters, Danijela (Darko Lokmic) Ćejvan-Lokmic and Sanja (Darko Borkovic) Ćejvan, along with her four cherished grandchildren. Ružica was preceded in death by her father, Rudolf Kohler; mother, Renee Kohler; and brother, Bruno Kohler.

A visitation in memory of Ružica will be held on January 30, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ernst Funeral Home, located at 80 NE Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, IA 50263. At 2:00 PM, a formal procession will begin at the funeral home and will conclude at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines, where she will be laid to her final rest.

Ružica will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to shine through her family and the countless students she inspired throughout her life.

Ernst Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Ružica's final arrangments.