Naum Trajkoski

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Naum Trajkoski, 89, of Manalapan, New Jersey, on July 10, 2026.

Born in the village of Dolno Lakocere, Ohrid, Macedonia to the late Klime and Anna Kostovski. Naumce grew up on a family farm where he worked hard alongside his brothers and sisters. After getting a degree in Agricultural Sciences, he took on a job and carried responsibilities on the farm. At work his good friend introduced him to his sister Mitra and she became the love of his life. Together with their children Atina (age 5) and Zoran (age 2) and his teenage nephew Boris they made the courageous decision in 1968 to move to America in pursuit of a better life. The family’s first stop was Italy where they would live for nine months alongside others that were awaiting their papers to come to America. The family was able to join Naum’s younger sister Strebrena and her family in New York in 1969. They moved to New Jersey a short time later where Naum made a comfortable life for his family, one built on family, faith, and community.

He was a devoted founding member of Sts. Kiril and Metodij Macedonian Orthodox Church and deeply committed to serving in the church. His service included being a member of its board as well as terms as the Treasurer and President. He understood that the church was very important for the growing Macedonian community, it was a place of belonging as much as a place of faith. Naum was also one of the founders of the Macedonian Soccer Club where he enthusiastically served as a long-time coach. It stands as one of his proudest legacies to have been a teacher, mentor and cheerleader for the players most of whom had recently come to the United States. Naum was always ready with helpful advice, spirited encouragement, and loving support towards reaching their goals. The soccer club became more than a sports organization for the players and their families. It was a place to find firm footing, to network, to find work, to make lifelong friends, and centered around a commitment to work together to lift up all. It was the social gathering place, a cultural anchor, and a reflection of everything that Coach Naumce and the other founders had once needed and could now provide the next generation.

Naum loved soccer and all sports. In his later years he was a big fan of Tennis and tried to never miss a televised match. He also loved to debate on the news of the day, give a speech on any topic, have spirited conversation with anyone about any topic but best of all he enjoyed spending time with friends and family. Naum held a number of jobs since coming to America and was very much an entrepreneur. He launched several businesses including owner and operator of the Metropol Motel in Seaside Heights, New Jersey.

As a father, Naum taught respect, hard work, and the value of education. He instilled in his children the necessity of sacrifice for others. As a grandfather, he was devoted to always being present and encouraging for his grandchildren. He rejoiced when attending their school events, watching them compete in sports and witnessing all of their life accomplishments with tremendous pride. They brought immense joy to his life, and he brought an abundance of love to theirs.

Above all, Naum was a dedicated family man that would give his all for his family and friends. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Mitra Trajkoska (Celeska), with whom he would have celebrated 63 years of marriage and his loving son Zoran Trajkoski (Suzanne) as well as his three siblings Rajkida (Blagojce), Rade (Roza) and Slave (Trena). He leaves behind his loving daughter: Atina Trajkoski Pascua (Leo), daughter-in-law Suzanne and his cherished grandchildren: Nicolina, Alexander, Anna. and Christopher. Naum is also survived by his sister, Strebrena (Branko) Nikolic, along with his nieces, nephews and godchildren. Naum will be remembered for his determination, dedication, and love that he shared with all who knew him. His legacy and spirit continues in what he gave to his family and community.

Family will receive friends and relatives for a Funeral Service on Monday, July 13, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Sts. Kiril and Metodij Macedonian Orthodox Church, 1050 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove, N.J. Interment will follow at East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared on shookscedargrove.com.