Obituary of Gracijela Jovanovic (nee Belic)

November 9, 1942 – May 11, 2025

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, wife, baka, sister, and friend, Gracijela, who left us peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.

She shared 61 years of marriage with her husband, Ante and together raised their cherished daughters, Diane (Christian), Brenda (Michael), Michelle (Serge) and Janette (the late Ian Ryan). Instilling in them the values of kindness, strength and family. Her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren Teja, Kate and Luka grow and flourish, always offering them encouragement, wisdom and boundless affection.

She is now reunited with her parents, Ivan and Gaspa, and her siblings, Bozo, Beba, and Aldo. She is survived by her sister, Ena; brother-in-law, Stevo; and sister-in-law, Eileen. She also leaves behind beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends in Croatia and Canada.

Gracijela’s fondest memories include visiting family and friends at her home in Kozino, long talks over coffee with good friends, tending to her gardens, family picnics, going to church, listening to music and dancing. She was kind, compassionate and always there to offer a helping hand and words of wisdom.

Those that had the privilege of knowing her, will forever remember her gentle grace, beautiful smile, infectious laughter and the way she made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

Our family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and care staff at the Civic Hospital and SE Health for their compassionate care over the last several months. In recognition of our mother’s love for children, we respectfully request that, in lieu of flowers, donations be directed to a children’s charity of your choice.

Friends are invited to a Funeral Mass at St. Leopold Mandic Croatian Parish, 170 Hinchey Avenue on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 11am.  Burial to follow at Pinecrest Cemetery, 2500 Baseline Road with reception to take place in the Pinecrest Reception Centre.