by croatiaweek
September 11, 2025
in
(Photo: Private album)
A ceremony has been held in San Pedro, California, to officially name a square in honour of Gojko Špralja, a long-time leader and highly respected member of the Croatian-American community.
The newly unveiled Gojka Špralja Square recognises the life and contribution of Špralja, who was admired both as a Croatian immigrant and an American patriot.
The dedication ceremony was attended by Špralja’s family, as well as numerous representatives from Los Angeles city and county, the Croatian Consul General in Los Angeles, prominent business leaders and friends.
The event was opened by Rudy Svorinich Jr., President of the Dalmatian-American Club and the driving force behind the idea for the square. He also proposed the inscription: “Gojka Špralja Square – leader of San Pedro, Croatian immigrant and American patriot.”
(Photo: Private album)
Los Angeles City Councillor Tim McOsker described Špralja as “one of those great individuals who perfectly embodied the spirit of our community.
For 63 years he was a beloved member of San Pedro, proud of both his heritage and his adopted homeland.
He loved his family, friends, and cared deeply about helping others through his volunteer work at the Dalmatian-American Club. He was a real treasure of the community and a wonderful man.”
(Photo: Private album)
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, former U.S. Congresswoman, added: “Gojko Špralja was San Pedro. His story was like so many in our community who sought and achieved the American dream. He was a true American patriot and loved by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Špralja’s sons Eddy, Neven and Jack attended the dedication with their families. Speaking on behalf of the family, Neven Špralja said: “We all know that Gojko is watching us from heaven today and with his infectious smile is saying to everyone, ‘Gojko loves you.’”
(Photo: Private album)
Born on 30 September 1936 on the tiny Dalmatian island of Rava, which he fondly called “the centre of the world”, Gojko Špralja built an extraordinary life in America.
He served as President of the Dalmatian-American Club seven times in the mid-1980s, during which he was also named honorary Mayor of San Pedro.
(Photo: Private album)
His campaigns raised funds for the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce and provided scholarships for local students through the club.
Špralja also served as President of the Lions Club and was a member of the San Pedro Elks Lodge.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
He passed away peacefully on 15 December 2024 at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and lasting influence on the community he cherished.