Ugljesa Ugo Sunarich, age 96, of Toronto, Ontario, passed away peacefully on October 23rd, 2020 in his home due to complications from pneumonia. Born on July 1st, 1924 in Vlasenica, Yugoslavia, Ugo grew up in a very closely knit family within a closely knit community. The horrors of WWII resulted in the displacement of the family and the loss of all they owned. Always courageous in the face of danger, Ugo escaped an internment camp and crossed the Alps alone to safety on the other side of the front into Austria where he worked as a farmhand until the end of the war. The end of the war found him in Italy, where he worked for the UN as a translator and refugee processor. It was in Gorizia, Italy where he met and then married Elizabeth, the love of his life. With Europe in ruins, they together embarked on a journey to begin a new life in Canada, settling in Hamilton, Ontario.

Once in Canada, ever resourceful Ugo, was able to advance quickly using his language skills and business acumen, in which he had been schooled before the war. Starting out in a cotton mill in Hamilton, he quickly moved up to a management position and then after several years, secured a position with Petrofina eventually retiring as an assistant bulk plant superintendent after over 30 years of service. Retirement for Ugo meant career change, and he effortlessly pivoted to property management working for several residential property owners. On the side, he continued to invest in real estate, buying and selling properties as opportunities arose. His last 5 years were devoted to caring for Elizabeth, who suffered from severe dementia until her passing in January of this year.

Ugo had a deep love of nature and animals. His years spent on their farm taking care of his horses in Flamborough were joyous and fulfilling. With his adventurous spirit, he was always up to a challenge, he enjoyed his wilderness canoe trips in Killarney Park with his son Alex and grandson Mark, well into his 80’s. A true Europe gentleman, courtesy was second nature to him, and he would always go the extra distance to dress in style. He placed a high value on family and friendship; integrity, duty and loyalty. Determination, diligence, perseverance, and courage were at the core of his nature.

Ugo is predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Elizabeth, and is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his son Alex, daughter-in-law Nadine, grandchildren Mark and Erica, in-laws Sharon and Martin, as well as his many relatives and friends.

We are most grateful to Dr. Mark Nowaczynski and his House Calls for Seniors team for all of the wonderful care provided to both Ugo and Elizabeth through their most difficult years, as this made them able to spend their last days in the comfort of their home. A special expression of gratitude is also extended to caregivers Beata, Tenzin T. and Tenzin Y. for the wonderful and tireless care and comfort which they provided to Ugo until his last breath.

A private family-only graveside funeral will be held on Saturday October 31st the Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto. Donations in honor of Ugo’s life should be directed to the House Calls for Seniors Program, through www.sprintseniorcare.org/donate