Joe passed away at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre in Toronto on Saturday, April 7th, 2018 at the age of 93. He leaves behind son Goran, daughter-in-law Gordana, grandson Marko and granddaughter Mia Andrea. Predeceased by his parents Josip (Joe) and Franka, sister Olga and brother Tony.
Born in Yugoslavia on August 1, 1924 he came to Canada with his family as a four year old boy, first living in Hamilton and then moving to the Sudbury area during the Great Depression. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II enlisting at Manning Depot, at the CNE, serving as Leading Aircraftman, stationed across Canada, from Galt, to Trenton, Fingal and Lachine. Joe was decorated with Canadian Volunteer Service Medal – War Medal 1939-45.
After the war he returned to Yugoslavia with his parents and younger sister where he spent next forty years practicing his tool and die trade, playing and coaching ice hockey in Belgrade, winning the National Championship six times, participating at the World Championships as a member of the Yugoslavian National Team and coaching junior and senior teams. Summers were spent mainly on the Danube - kayaking, boating, fishing and camping.
He lived the last twenty years in Toronto with son Goran and his family. Joe was an avid sports enthusiast and a big fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The family would like to extend their thanks to all of the staff of L-Wing at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre and a special thank you to his personal caregivers.
If desired, In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sunnybrook Veterans Centre.