On February 13, 1960, a significant funeral ceremony was held for Cardinal Stepinac at Zagreb Cathedral, which was attended by an estimated 6,000 worshippers inside the cathedral and an additional 3,000 to 4,000 people gathered outside. According to reports from the state security agency, UDBA, around 20,000 people visited the church during the proceedings, showcasing the cardinal's deep-rooted influence despite the threats posed by state authorities. Remarkably, there were no incidents or provocations during the event, highlighting the solemnity and respect of those attending the funeral.

Stepinac's body was transported to the cathedral on February 12, where it lay overnight as preparations for his grave were underway. By 9 AM on the day of the funeral, the cathedral was filled to capacity, reflecting the cardinal's importance to the community. The memorial mass was led by Msgr. Dr. Franjo Šeper, marking a poignant moment in the history of the Croatian church and its followers, and serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of Stepinac.

This event not only underscores the significant role of Cardinal Stepinac in the Croatian Catholic Church but also reflects broader societal dynamics at play in Croatia in the 1960s. The overwhelming turnout during the funeral, despite the presence of state security, suggests a strong public sentiment and reverence for the cardinal, highlighting the tensions between religious devotion and state control in the region at the time.