Boris Ilija Batinica

April 12, 1931 - January 14, 2023

SAN DIEGO —

Boris Ilija Batinica passed away at his home on Saturday, January 14, with family members by his side.

Boris was born in the village of Bara, in the former Yugoslavia, to Ilija and Mara Batinica. After World War II, he was accepted into the Naval Architecture Academy in Kotor, Montenegro, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. In 1956, Boris emigrated to the United States and enlisted in the US Army Corps of Engineers, serving in Korea. Afterward, he settled in San Diego.

He married in 1959 and raised seven children: Mary, Susan, Michael, Nancy, Greg, Amy, and Laurie. Over the years, he welcomed 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Boris applied his knowledge and talents in the thriving San Diego tuna and shipbuilding industries, designing tuna boats, cargo ships, and yachts. He worked at Star & Crescent, NASSCO and San Diego Marine before retiring as Chief Engineer for Campbell Shipyard.

A dedicated husband and father, Boris loved working with his hands. He particularly enjoyed building things for his home and the homes of his children. He also took great pride in teaching his family to build, maintain, and repair things themselves.

He also liked spending time in his garage, rebuilding engines, making custom tools and parts, and keeping the family cars running efficiently for years, including the family’s 1957 Ford Fairlane 500, “Mediterranean Blue;” his beloved 1972 Ford Pinto; and “Goldie,” his 1988 Volvo 740.

Boris remained active, engaged, and independent all his life. He loved taking scenic drives around town, spending time in Balboa Park, walking around his neighborhood, and visiting with his family. His home was open to everyone. Boris’ legacy lives on through his lessons on hard work, education, and self-sufficiency.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Borislava Kukic; his brother, Nikola; and his grandson, Michael Ayers. He is survived by all his children, their families, and his brother Bogdan.

A memorial celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 AM, February 4th, 2023, at Featheringill Mortuary, 6322 El Cajon Blvd. San Diego, CA 92115.

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