Born in Selca, Brač, Croatia on April 18, 1937, Marija passed away peacefully on Friday May 7, 2021, in Vancouver, Canada at the age of 84. Maria will be sadly missed by Dinko, the love of her life for over 63 years, and by her children Zoran (Pauline) and Ivica “John” as well as her cherished grandchildren Megan and Malcolm, her sister Katica, brother Nikica many nieces and nephews and numerous other friends and relatives in Canada and Croatia.
Marija was a force of nature who lit up the room with her vivacious spirit, sense of fun, laughter, creativity and boundless energy. She lived her life to the absolute fullest and was extraordinarily devoted to her family and friends. Her lifelong romance with her husband, Dinko is an inspiration to us all. Marija welcomed all with open arms and was widely known for her warm and generous hospitality. She delighted in gathering her family, friends and many treasured Bračani “dica” around her table for a bonding experience like no other - an incredible meal infused with good conversation, hearty laughs and a wonderful sense of belonging. We are in awe of the depths of love in her soul and appreciate how blessed our lives have been to be able to hold a part of her in our hearts forever.
A funeral mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Croatian Parish in Vancouver to be celebrated by Father Slaven Milanović - Litre at 11am PST on Friday May 14, 2021. Due to COVID restrictions, only Marija’s family may attend in person. The funeral mass will be livestreamed @gospavancouver on Facebook. Marija will be laid to rest in the cemetery in Selca, Brač, Croatia.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Marija’s memory may be made to the North Shore Hospice & Palliative Care ( https://lghfoundation.com/donate/ ).