Dumitru "Tica" Ionescu

Dumitru “Tica” Ionescu, 80, of Panama City, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with bone cancer (multiple myeloma). Born on December 1, 1945, in Bucharest, Romania, Tica was the son of Gheorghe and Ioana Ionescu. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from the Romanian National University of Physical Education and Sports, then played and coached professional soccer in Bucharest. In 1981, Tica, with extraordinary bravery and determination, escaped communist Romania and immigrated to the United States. There he met and married Maria (Popa) Ionescu, and together they began a new life defined by freedom, resilience, and opportunity, traveling the country, side by side. Tica had a lifelong passion for sports, particularly tennis and soccer. He loved the competition, valued sportsmanship, and generously shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with others on the court. He also devoted tremendous energy to his children, creating meaningful and unique experiences they will cherish for the rest of their lives. Tica was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Marin Ionescu and Gheorghe Ionescu. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Lt Col Maria Ionescu (ret); his three children: Horica Ionescu and his wife, Kaira; Georgeta Ionescu; and Alexandru Ionescu and his wife, Lauren; his three grandchildren, Ada, Adrian, and Sandu; his sisters, Elena Ionescu and Ioana Nae; and many other loved ones. A funeral service is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Bevis Funeral Home in Tallahassee, Florida. All are welcome to attend. Interment will follow at Tallahassee National Cemetery. The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tica’s memory may be made to (Details to follow: will be for an athletic organization for sponsorship of tennis lessons or sports equipment). Tica will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and all who knew and loved him. Niki Carney of Bevis Funeral Home (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Dumitru "Tica" Ionescu

December 1, 1945 - March 31, 2026