Ziva Stelkic Obituary, Death: Shelby Township man discovered dead in water near his boat, sheriff says.
Ziva Stelkic Obituary, Death – A 77-year-old man from Shelby Township was found dead in the water at MacRay Harbor on Lake St. Clair, authorities confirmed on Monday. Deputies from the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office were called to the scene around 2:06 p.m. after being asked to perform a welfare check on the man, later identified as Ziva Stelkic. The request was made when concerns arose about his well-being, prompting an emergency response.
Upon arrival, emergency crews discovered Stelkic unresponsive in the water directly behind his personal boat. Personnel from both the Sheriff’s Office and the Harrison Township Fire Department attempted life-saving efforts, but Stelkic was declared dead at the scene.
Officials have stated that there are no signs of foul play at this time, but an investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding his death remains ongoing. The sheriff’s office expressed condolences to the victim’s family and friends, saying, “The thoughts and prayers of the MCSO go out to the family and friends of this individual.”
This incident adds to a growing number of water-related deaths in Michigan during the summer months.
Earlier in the season, several other drownings were reported across the state:
- On June 18, a two-year-old girl tragically drowned in an outdoor pool in Southgate.
- Just a few days later, on June 22, a 26-year-old man lost his life after drowning in Cass Lake in Keego Harbor.
- Another tragedy occurred on July 2, when a three-year-old boy drowned at Lake St. Clair Metropark, also in Harrison Township.
In Oakland County alone, at least eight people have drowned so far in 2025, including two who died over the Independence Day holiday weekend.
The issue of water safety has become increasingly urgent, especially during the busy summer season when more residents and visitors are enjoying time on Michigan’s lakes and waterways.
According to the latest data from the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, 42 people have drowned in the Great Lakes as of this week. Of those, 19 deaths have occurred in Michigan, making the state one of the most affected in the region.
As water recreation continues to be a major part of Michigan’s summer lifestyle, officials are urging the public to stay vigilant. This includes using life jackets, never swimming alone, and keeping a close watch on children around water. Weather conditions, strong currents, and boating safety also remain key concerns.
While Stelkic’s death is not currently being treated as suspicious, investigators will continue to gather information to determine the exact cause of his drowning. In the meantime, the local community mourns another tragic loss linked to the water.
Authorities have not released additional details but will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
