Josip was predeceased by his parents, Imbro and Dragica Barkovic; his siblings, Iva, Mara and Barbara; and his beloved wife of 50 years, Marija "Maca" Barkovic.
Loving father of Robert and Carmen (Isaac). Dear brother of Petar, Katica and Steve. He will be deeply missed by his niece, Vesna Vrđuka, as well as by family and friends in Canada, Germany and Croatia.
Josip retired from Dofasco after many years of service. He enjoyed gardening, making his homemade wine, smoking meats and dancing. You could always find Josip on the dance floor at any function! He was a member of the Croatian Cultural Club Draganić/Sveti Juraj for many years.
Throughout the last 28 years, Josip faced many health challenges. Through them all, he continued to show remarkable courage and strength, never losing his sense of humour or his incredible will to live.
A special thank-you to all of the PSWs who cared for Josip, to his caregiver of five years, Helen, and to his beloved caregiver and friend, Cheery, who held a very special place in his heart, as well as to Dr. Hadcock for many years of compassionate care.
Resting at Markey-Dermody Funeral Home, 1774 King Street East, Hamilton, for visitation on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. Prayers will be held at 3:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Our Lady of the Angels Cemetery, Stoney Creek. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.markeydermody.com
A father's love is never lost; it becomes a part of who we are. You will walk beside us in our hearts until the day we meet again. Rest peacefully, Stari.
