It is with great sadness The Relić family announces the passing of Božo Relić on April 30, 2021 in his 82nd year at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie following a long courageous battle with cancer. Beloved husband of Milka for 59 years. Dear father of Danny (Pamela), Anjelica (Brian), and Bogdanka. Loving grandfather to Tristina, Samantha, Jason, Tristan, Trimell, Trirell, Trimane, Tia and great-grandfather to Novalee. Cherished brother of Pavao (Mara), Mika and Evica. Loving uncle of Slobodan, Bogdan, Rada and Dejan.

Born in Croatia, Božo’s heart was never far from his roots in his beloved Pecka, his family and friends. He built a new life in Canada for over 45 years with his dear wife Milka and family, and spent his long happy retirement years in Barrie, enjoying the outdoors and the companionship of their much-loved doggies.

Bozo was a quiet man with the biggest heart who lived his life simply. He never criticized or judged as he believed people lived their lives in the best way they knew how or the way that suited them most. He loved deeply and forgave easily. His family was the focus of his life. For 25 years he worked at a back breaking job in a tannery to ensure his family never lacked anything, often working double shifts without hesitation or complaint. He never sought riches or possessions and reminded us often both verbally and by his actions wealth was love of family and friends. For anyone who needed help, he was the first to step in and help in any way he could. Even when there was nothing he could do, he was there offering his quiet love and support.

COVID-19 changed how we lived life. When in-home visits were no longer possible, his life was enriched by the constant care and companionship of his wife Milka and granddaughter Tristina and by the many friends and family that visited and spent happy times on his front porch where he liked to sit, drink his coffee, chat and hear about the happenings in the world. For those who were far away, Croatia, Serbia and from all over the world, the frequent and lengthy telephone calls reminiscing about old days and keeping him company were cherished and we are grateful for same.

Bozo was blessed with friends who through their love and devotion became our family. Our gratitude and love to Pam, Jimmy, Chelsey and Abby, Carl, Robin and Maya for their care, friendship and kindness. We are forever grateful.
Our family is grateful to the wonderful medical team, Dr. Attupatu, Dr. McClelland, Dr. Ioca, Dr. Tam, Dr. Singh, Julie Burns and the incredible nurses at Royal Victoria Hospital for their care and comfort and compassion. Our eternal gratitude to nurse Daniella who was with him when he passed away.

Just as COVID-19 has changed how we live, it has also changed how we grieve. Due to current restrictions, a private family service will be held at the York Funeral Centre followed by interment at York Cemetery. Just as he lived simply, on May 3, 2021, Bozo Relic will be simply laid to rest.