Ante Pocrnic

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ante (Braco) Pocrnić, on April 1, 2025, at the age of 82. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Ante was born on February 21, 1943, in Kosa, Perušić, Croatia, to parents Ante and Marija Pocrnić. He was the youngest and only son of 6 children.

Like many kids growing up in Lika, Ante and his 5 sisters spent most of their time tending to chores around the house and farm. As Ante got older, he headed off to Zagreb where he finished trade school and graduated as a machinist.

In 1966, at the young age of 23, Ante immigrated to Vancouver, Canada, to build a new life. He started by straightening bumpers, then moved on to building golf courses with the best greens and fairways. Eventually, he settled down and enjoyed a long and successful career in cabinetry.

Ante met Sonja in 1969. They were married on September 19, 1970. Soon after, they welcomed children Marianna, Ante, and Ivan. Ante continued to work hard and provide for his family.

Ante was a proud Ličan and Croatian. Anyone that knew him could see the love he had for his homeland. Between singing with friends or making kobasice, Ante always kept his heritage and country close to his heart.

He is survived and missed by his loving wife Sonja of 54 years, children Marianna (Tomislav), Ante (Mira), and Ivan (Kristina); 11 grandchildren: Antea, Ava, Tiana, Ivan, Ella, Luka, Matea, Anica, Ante, Tomas, and Rose. Also missing him is his niece Sena (Pere) and their children Tomislav and Perica along with his surviving sisters Anka, Marija and Kaja and their families.

Ante leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness, and generosity that will be remembered by many relatives and friends both in Canada and Croatia.

Tata, voljet ćemo te zauvijek i nositi tvoje uspomene u srcima. Tvoj duh će nas uvijek pratiti.

Catholic mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Croatian Catholic Church, 3105 East 1st Avenue, Vancouver, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 10:00 am. Entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 3789 Royal Oak Avenue, Burnaby. The Celebration of Life will be held at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, following the entombment. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Croatian Catholic Parish in Ante’s honor.