Peter Želimir Zaradić

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father Peter Želimir Zaradić (‘Tata’). He left this world peacefully on December 23, 2023 following a long, fruitful and healthy life of 94 years.

Born on November 7, 1929 in Lovreć Croatia, Peter Želimir Zaradić was the first son and fourth child born to mother Jaka Madunić and father Božo Zaradić who ultimately went on to raise a family of nine children, including five girls: Iva (aka ‘Kosa’), Mara, Marija (aka ‘Jasna’), Dragica and Slavenka (aka ‘Seka’), and four boys: Peter, Vlado, Branko, and Tomislav. Born during historical events in Europe at the onset of the Great Depression, followed by the second World War, Peter’s early life was full of daily survival and challenges. Led by strong instincts, an intense survival and work ethic, and a desire for a better life, post an apocalyptic Europe, in 1945 at the tender age of 16 he escaped the emerging communist regime in Yugoslavia, lived and survived on the streets of Austria and Germany for several years, prior to making his way to Canada in 1951 at the age of 21. Peter did not see his parents again until his return to Croatia in 1968, at the age of 39. In 1964 Peter met his future wife, Zrinka Kovać, in Vancouver British Columbia. They married on June 22, 1965, and had two daughters, Andrea Melissa and Mira Silvia. Peter’s career spanned over 40 years, working in the hospitality and catering sectors, owning and operating several of his own small business ventures, until his transition to Cara Operations, working at the Vancouver International Airport as a Bartender and server, until his retirement at the age of 70.

Peter Želimir Zaradić is survived by his two daughters Andrea and Sylvia, wife of many years Zrinka, sister Slavenka and brother Vlado, and many long standing close family and friends who are left to cherish his memory. His personal passions spanned across many fronts including fine clothing and dressing very well, wine making and entertaining, glamping, skiing and golfing. His love of life and cherished moments were felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service will be held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Croatian Catholic Church, 3105 East 1st Avenue, Vancouver B.C., on Friday, January 26th, 11am. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering and honoring a long life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that charitable donations be made to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Croatian Catholic Church.

The memory of Peter Želimir Zaradić will forever live on in our hearts. May he rest in peace, knowing that he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished moments.