Mary (Marija) Petric

November 8,1927-September 25th, 2022

On September 25th, 2022, at the age of 94, Mary passed away peacefully at home with family by her side. She was predeceased by her husband Dane Petric, her parents Ana and Nikola Milkovic and her brother Nikola. She will be so greatly missed by her daughters and sons-in-law, Sophie (Michael Lingren) and Dana (Eric Neighbour).

Grieving the loss of their dear Baba and Baka will be her 3 granddaughters; Hannah, Natalie and Cleo. Also mourning her passing is her devoted nephew Mile in Croatia and many of her dear friends and neighbours.

Mary was in her element as a loving mother who always supported both her daughters. As a grandmother she was dear Baba and Baka to her 3 granddaughters whom she showered with love and affection. She was blessed with 2 wonderful sons-in-law whom she treated like her own sons.

Marija lived a pastoral village life of simplicity and self-sufficiency in Studenci, Lika, Croatia. Mary also lived the modern life of a working immigrant woman in Vancouver, B.C., Canada. She successfully learned a new language and fully embraced her adopted land. She was brave and resilient and survived many life challenges.

Whether in the home raising a family or working outside the home for 27 years, Mary was a hard worker her whole life. She laboured first as a motel chambermaid and then for 17 years worked at Fair Haven Nursing Home in the kitchen, in the laundry and with residents.

She lived in the Killarney neighbourhood for over 50 years and enjoyed all aspects of a good life there. She fully participated in all Community Centre and Senior Centre activities including bingo, casino outings and field trips. She was a good neighbour to all.

Mary loved nature and being outside was her happy place. She grew amazing vegetables in her large garden and tended to her beautiful flowers with loving care. In her later years, enjoying the sunshine on her back deck was a favourite pastime. She was a lifelong walker which enabled her to age gracefully.

Mary had a generous heart and was always giving. She put love and compassion into action. She was selfless and humble.

Special thanks to all who were a part of the care team: Team Mary. This amazing group of dedicated caregivers included: Dr. Robin Patyal from Home ViVe; Community Health Nurses from South Health Unit and Palliative Care program; OT Alissa and her amazing personal caregivers from JFS: Villaflor, Maria and Julia. The combined efforts of these compassionate human beings allowed Mary to spend her remaining days at home realizing her wish to die peacefully at home.

At her request, a small graveside service was held on Thursday October 6th at Ocean View Cemetery where we paid our final respects to Mary and we bid farewell to this lovely lady. She will be so missed.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.OceanViewFuneral.com for the Petric family.