All the best to Ann and the family. 

I will never forget Jan. 

One of the very, very good ones.

The staircase we used to climb with Ian, I often talk to him here.

I only knew Jan as a friend that I had asked to join a current affairs discussion group and in the resultant get-togethers, discovered his deep and principled ideas shared with the driest of humours. 

He became a favorite of mine and while we were not best buds, there are few for whom I have developed the same amount of respect and admiration. 

It is often said but in this case truer than most that we were diminished by his loss. 

Rest In Peace , Jan.

Our sincere condolences to Anne Novak.  May Jan's soul rest in eternal peace.

Jan, you’re still missed! Thanks for being a father figure and friend. Can’t prove it, but I’m pretty sure you’re still out there smirking and knowing better than the rest of us.

Tato, Dad, friend, pillar.

I miss you terribly. I think about you a lot. I think about the fun we've had, how we laughed at each other's jokes, how we loved shopping for food together and cooking steaks on the fire. I think about your hugs and your smile. I think about your brilliance and really try to live by your words "just get it done right away and you won't have to think about it again". That's really helped me, thank you.

It's been a privilege being your daughter, I'm grateful everyday for the time I had with you. And now I get to talk to my daughter about how amazing you were.

I love you

What a privilege it is to know this man and comforting that so many feel the same.

 I will never forget him.

We miss you Jan, and all our friends in Belvidere.  Would love to hear from you, Ann - our sympathies for you and your family in the loss of Jan.  


My thoughts are with you. Hope any tears are mixed with smiles and warm memories. :)

I am thinking about the Vrana family on this difficult anniversary.

As privileged as I am to have known Jan and shared thoughts and ideas with him, I wish I had spent even more time revelling in his unique and inspirational self.

I hope the family continues to find strength in the joy that was this wonderful man.

He is missed by many.

Alan

My condolences to the family. I only learned of Jan's passing this morning and it was a sad discovery. I first met Jan at Turner Consultants in 1983 - 1985 and we spent much time together working on various projects and debating on several subjects. He told me his story of how he had defected and made his way across the ocean. It was captivating. His sense of humour was second to none and he always had a sharp quip to any discussion. Yes his voice bellowed and could be heard across any space on the same floor but that was Jan and it was welcomed. I saw him again many years later at elementary school for a parents teacher evening since our kids went to the same school and it was as if we didn't skip a day. He loved his skiing and would talk about it frequently. Jan, you will always be remembered and in a most favourable way. Bye for now but one day we shall have our debates again. I'll look for you so keep your eyes open. 

It is thanks giving week-end and I took this opportunity to send out messages to my friends, past and present, who had made a difference in my life. I tried to get hold of Jan’s contact though my records as I had last spoken to him some 10 years ago. Finally I tried to get his whereabouts through internet search and was shocked to learn that Jan had left us all on 29 September 2020.
My sincere condolences to Anne Vrana and all her children. Jan and myself had joined forces as engineers for a couple of years when he lived in the Cartierville area. We both shared the passion of teaching architects at McGill University. Jan was an extremely competent engineer and he made a positive difference in my life.  May his soul rest in eternal peace. 




I first knew Jan early 2003 when I first joined Bechtel in Montreal. He was a great teacher. I learned from him a lot. Working with him was a great pleasure. We used to discuss political events happening during those days. He had depth of knowledge and willing to learn more about other cultures.  

Jan will be missed. My condolences to his family, friends and collogues.  

Mohab Sabry (Bechtel)

I have fond memories working with Jan at Bechtel.
We were Chief Engineers.
He was very kind, friendly, honest, had a great sense of humour, and very well respected among his peers.
He was proud to have gone up/down Mount Royal at lunch-he was in good shape.
I will always remember Jan - my colleague and friend.
I wish him and his family, peace.
- to know so many liked Jan, must be comforting.

Kind regards,
Charlie Gaal, P.Eng



First of all, my wife, Violeta and I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the Vrana family, and also to the Novak family since both families were very close friends. 

We met Honza about 30 years ago. He was a great guy and I remember how he shared his engineering talent with us to get the foundation of our cottage fixed. On a few other occasions, he, John Novak and I took all of our respective kids to Algonquin Park for a weekend fishing trip.

He will be missed!

Vlad and Violeta Hollmann


It truly saddens me to hear of the passing of Jan Vrana.  As an architecture student at McGill in 2003, I had the pleasure of attending engineering courses taught by Jan.  His brilliance, his intelligence, his patience and especially his humility made such an impression on me then as a student, and the immense respect I had for him over the years as an engineer and as the person he was only grew over time.  Jan will surely be missed.

I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family and I wish you all peace in this difficult time.

Cindy Williams

My first memory of Jan was of his loud penetrating voice at the water cooler. My office was  only about 10 feet away. The conversations were usually about politics but could also cover a host of other subjects. His voice carried down echoey halls and around soft cubicle partitions with equal ease and surprising force.
Our paths didn’t cross much in those days and it wasn’t until after we both started work at Bechtel (on the very same day, no less) that we really got to know each other.  Our friendship grew over the next few years, and was highlighted by the many interesting conversations, some shared holidays and trips and similar personal projects.
Despite not seeing each other as frequently since retiring, Anne, please know that our thoughts are with you and your family in this most difficult time. If there is anything…you have only to call. Laurie & Ian


Annik - I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad.   I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with Jan and yourself on the Kitimat Modernization Project; two very talented and exceptional individuals.  Jan beamed with joy when he talked of his family and was so very proud of the individuals you have become and your accomplishments.  As Jan shared his stories and his travels/adventures (which I loved hearing!),  I could tell that the lessons he taught were thoughtful and his shared wisdom a gift that will last a lifetime - a wonderful legacy for all to carry on.  Be comforted in knowing that your Dad left a permanent imprint on the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of working with and knowing him.  May you take comfort in knowing that he will be looking down on all of you and smiling, filled with great love and pride.

My deepest sympathies to the Vrana Family,

Dawn Marie


I’m so sad to heard this news Annik , all my condolences to you and all member of your family . I never forget the day who call me in his phone In November 2010 ,to tell me to join Bechtel team for that big project , KMPproject . Yan Vrana ,you father ,was a special men , knowledgeable, sociable smart ... and very kind ... he help me lot to challenge the difficult environment I was facing when I started this project ..... im very sad 😞 to day Anick , very sad 😞

Dear Anne, I wish you and your precious family my heartfelt condolences. I did not know Jan, but all the beautiful stories of his love of friends and family and his strength of character paint a picture of a rich and well-lived life. Much love, Irene

Jan was  a brilliant engineer and a reasoned thinker, who spoke, offered a solution , or put on paper only once he had a full knowledge,understanding and a rock solid solution. Being a Czech immigrant he repayed his  Alma Mater{McGill} thru his lectures  to the students for the opportunity it gave him  when he himself was a student in establishing his career. He looked so much forward to having more time to spend with Anne in Vermont. Sadly  he has  left us before his dreams could be realized.

My deepest condolences to Jan’s family for your loss.
I had the good fortune of working with Jan in Bechtel (Montreal).  He was a brilliant engineer – innovative and pragmatic. He was always willing to listen and to offer help.  His confident and reassuring smile will be sorely missed.


Jan Vrana was a gifted engineer and powerful thinker.  His humanity and quirky personality characterized his sometimes contrarian nature, energized his reasoning and made him a wonderfully unorthodox person with whom I loved to work.  I could always count on Jan to leaven brilliant ideas into a project and piquant into our conversations. 

My collaboration with Jan commenced in 1997 on the first project that we realized at McGill, a tricky little ditty in which he eschewed conventional approaches, thought out of the box and solved structural challenges in his characteristically elegant, yet simple way. 

Over the years, his genius helped us challenge conventional engineering thinking and hone our architectural ideas. He looked at a problem, stripped it down to first principals and whipped back an alternative solution as quickly as a fast ball, accompanied with a quip in the form of a humble question such as ‘have you considered this ?’.  The crystalline clarity of his designs and the wisdom of the underlying thought assured that his solutions were seamlessly integrated into each and every project on which he worked. 

All of the members of the ekm team who have collaborated with Jan in our studio, studied under his guidance at Mcgill or shared our Christmas diner with him will miss his vision and warmth dearly.  We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, and share the burden of your loss. Rest assured: the flame of his passion will animate us forever.  

François P. Emond, partner, ekm architecture and environmental design


I was tasked by the following Bechtel Friends to convey their messages to the family:

Hany Istafanous: My sincere condolences. May God rest his soul and grant the family His peace.

Silvia Sepulveda: What sad news! 
 
Antoine Kerba: My sincere condolences to Jan Vrana’s family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan was a great man, a good friend, an excellent engineer and a real human being and team player. He will be missed and will remain always in our heart and memory.

Bernard Claude: Triste nouvelle pour le décès de Jan Vrana. Veuillez transmettre mes sincères condoléances à la famille de ma part.

Nadine Youssef: It`s very sad news. Jan was a good friend. He`ll be greatly missed.

Rajiv Sharma: Annik Vrana, Vrana Family and All friends, What a shock!....My deepest condolences for loss of Jan Vrana, rest in peace. What a great friend and professional person, sea of knowledge was Jan Vrana! I will miss him greatly.

Gianni Cicuta:  I would love to offer my deepest condolences to his Family for such a great loss. A Requiem for his Soul.


Sincere condolences to all  the family - Our prayers with you. 
Jan was a colleague that I respected on all fronts. Honest, human and respectful to everyone. He left great memories with many of us!!   

Nabil Habib (Bechtel),

Dear Anne, Annik, and family,

Over the years that Jan and I shared during our time at Bechtel, I have so many fond memories. We hiked and skied in Kitimat, and debated everything from politics to climate change all the while. In the process he - gently and politely - brought me around to his way of thinking. For example, he convinced me to read Confessions of a Greenpeace Dropout, by Patrick Moore.

Jan and I also tackled some challenging engineering problems together, from big silos threatening to be the Leaning Tower of Pisa, to Frankie-piles that were at risk of becoming gas wells. And since our project only invoked Jan's expertise for the most difficult problems, this always involved a terribly-intertwined mix of technical and commercial issues. But in the inevitable debates with suppliers, Jan could seamlessly and smoothly separate the two, lead us to the best technical solution with authority, and do it without ever making it hard for me to sort out the cost-sharing details. He was an absolute joy to work with.

Like many people, I'm sure, some of my best memories of Jan involve the ski hill. While on Shames Mountain, he fixed my flawed turns in just 3 sentences. He's the one who set the target for me: "be able to ski any slope, under any conditions". I was far from that, but he was there! He was arguably the best all-around skier I ever met.  And part of that involved a good laugh. Annik will recall the day 5 of us set off down a converging back-bowl chute in deep powder. Jan led the way effortlessly and stopped 2/3 of the way down to watch us follow. As I approached, my speed and control went in opposite directions, until I plowed into him and knocked us both into the fluff! Jan could have reacted many ways, but as we dusted off it was clear he thought this was terribly funny - it was his first fall in many years, and what  a way for it to happen!

Jan may be gone physically, but his legacy lives on.

Godspeed and hugs,
Andrew


I was so sorry to hear the news about Jan when Annie called last week. The world is a little bit diminished by his departure, and I am so very sorry for Annie and the rest of the family.  I am sorry not to be able to join you today, but all of you are very much on my mind.
Jan has been a friend, a colleague and a teacher since I was a student at McGill in the 80’s.  I first met him at some family gathering with Annie’s family, the Novaks, friends of my parents.  I remember him as a teaching assistant at McGill, explaining the mysteries of structural design to young architects. I remember him arriving at our storefront office in NDG  on his way to work or home, to resolve a detail or to explain to us why something wouldn’t work though he really much preferred to engage us in a political or economic debate. I remember him crawling under the dining hall at Kanawana on a snowy morning trying to understand why that building was still standing, as well as warning me about the risks in modifying the brick piers of an old warehouse in Pointe-St-Charles. I remember him at L’OEUF’s Xmas party in a half-built home on Ile-Bigras as well as always making an early appearance at Big City’s annual party. I remember attending his 50th birthday party in Pointe-Claire and I was so honoured that he made it my own 60th birthday last year. I remember him coming with a trailer to salvage some vinyl siding for some backyard project he had in mind and calculating the structural capacity of some rusty steel joists for a house we were building.  I remember him trying to convince me that we really should buy a house on the Digby Neck – he was likely the only other person I know that had ever been to the Digby Neck. 
He was highly accomplished yet he always agreed to help us out with whatever trivial project we were doing.  Mostly I think he did it just for the banter. I hope that last climb up the steps to the top of Mont-Royal was as easy as you always made it seem.  
I will miss you, Jan.

Message de Yolande Cormier (ma maman)

Elle vous envoie beaucoup d'amour pour passer au travers cette mauvaise epreuve. Elle garde un excellent souvenir de ses quelques rencontres avec Honza, souvent par hasard dans le metro. 



I remember growing up, our families spend a lot of time together. We went on countless camping and boating trips, or just hung out at the cottage, and went on hikes. I cant seam to recall anything from those times. I'm somehow stuck on this one memory of Honza and my dad redoing the concrete step for our garage door. I remember suggesting some kind of drainage system and Honza looked at my dad after contemplating my idea and said " you know strejdo, he's pretty bright this kid". I was a teenager at that time and i remember feeling pretty damn good about myself. He really was a great man, a great husband, and a great father. A compliment from someone like that sticks with you.

During my time at Dawson, studying photography, I asked Jan to pose for one of my graduation portfolios. I'd like to share that photograph with you guys because it's the one that comes to mind when I think of him.

My dear friends, my second family,

I really don't know how to express my feelings. It's hard for me to put it down on the paper. I never lost a friend of 38 years. So for the moment I take it day by day. In 38 years of building my friendship with Honza, I accumulated so many memories and stories, that could easily fill up a book. But I rather tell you (now 6 of you and important others) all these beautiful stories and good times we spent together growing up and growing older. So I promise to you we will share these stories some day soon, perhaps sitting around the fire pit in Vt.
But at least one:
Maybe one of the best moments I spent with Honza were during our many camping trips on Lac Taureau. In the evenings, when all the kids were finally in the tents, us sitting silently in front of the fire, both of us tired from entertaining those chipmunks all day long, sipping on our beer, staring in the fire and saying NOTHING. In such priceless moment, I could in no time be on my 4th beer, when Honza was still sipping his 1st FLAT beer. Then he would suddently disappear in his tent and reappear standing in front of me in his favorite PJ, while flossing his teeth. It was exactly 10:01 PM... Come on! I never met anyone else who could kill this perfect moment on the spot, when for me the party did not even started.
You could be darn sure he was first one up in the morning, trying to pry me out of the tent to go fishing.
This is only one of many moments that I will share with you all in times. There are many more. You will help me to complete them since they are your stories too...
They will come and go and suddenly reappear from time to time as our lives continue and they will always be there to fill up forever "missing gap".

You know I love you all,
strejda Bruno

Deepest sympathies to all the Vrana family.  Thank you for posting the lovely memory.  We  will be thinking of all of you during these especially difficult times.  Adrian and Heidi

Jan was a great engineer and he always gave his professional opinions with good humor. I met Jan in my job interview in the December of 2007, and I still can remember every details, questions in that interview. 
I was hired by him, and he was such a good mentor that I could always ask him and get answers from him.
Thank you, Jan. Thank you bringing me into the engineering world, and showing me how wonderful it is. Thank you for helping me when I was at the tough time. Your brilliance will be remembered. God bless you.

With great sadness I learned that Jan passed away.
I had  the pleasure of working with Jan on Alma  project.
I offer to Vrana family my sincerest condolences.

Cher Milan,

La perte de ton père nous chagrine énormément et nous savons que ces moments sont extrêmement douloureux pour toi et pour Annie.  Il est difficile de trouver les mots justes qui pourraient vous apporter un peu de réconfort.  

Nous savons à quel point ton père et toi aviez bâti une relation profonde dont les liens demeureront à jamais gravés dans ta mémoire et dans ton cœur. 

Ce père a modelé en grande partie l’homme que tu es devenu. Il t’a légué tant de qualités nécessaires qui font de toi un père aimant et un modèle pour tes enfants. C’est le cycle de la vie.  Il restera présent à travers ce rôle de père que tu construis à ton tour.

Nous n’avons malheureusement pas eu la chance de rencontrer cet homme merveilleux. Mais nous ressentons toute la fierté et l’amour qui t’habitent lorsque tu nous parles de lui.  

Nos sincères condoléances à toi et à Annie, ainsi qu’à ta mère, tes sœurs et tes frères.

Nicole et Gérald

Dear Annie, Milan, Peter, Annik, Michelle, Alexis
What a beautiful picture of Honza. He’s exactly as we will always remember him, in the great outdoors, a smile on his face, brightness in his eyes. The first time I met Honza was in Greece  when Michael, Annie, Honza and I sat on a rock in Hydra  and chatted for hours about politics, life, and politics until the sun went down. I didn’t know then that I would  become a member of the Novak family but Honza told me some years later that he did! 
Handsome, brilliant, so in love with his wife, such a proud and loving Dad, an avid reader, an avid skier, and an accomplished engineer, we were all so proud to know him and count him as one of ours. Katrina told us that he had a stellar reputation amongst the students in not one,  but two faculties at McGill University, Engineering and Architecture. The students loved his wit and his teaching and he always scored very high. 
Babi asked me to convey her message to you that Honza was like a son to her and Milos,  that they loved him deeply. 
As a husband, as a Dad, Honza was the greatest. We hope the messages of love and support provide you with some comfort in these difficult times. Honza will remain in our hearts forever. 

All our love, 
Kathleen, Michael, Juliane, Katrina, Daniel, Elisabeth.  

I was greatly saddened by the terrible news of Jan's passing.  My sincerest condolences to Jan's family.

I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting and working with Jan at Bechtel.  During that time I came to greatly admire him.  Always a smile on his face, always available to help others, never stressed no matter the situation, Jan was just good to be around.

He was a brilliant engineer and commanded the utmost respect from his peers.  For a couple of years we worked closely together on the Kitimat project and during that time he saved my (and Bechtel/RTA's) bacon on in-numerous occasions.  Whenever a problem arose on the structural side of the project I would be in two minds.  On the one hand "Oh dear, butt about to be kicked again!", but on the other hand I was glad because it would provide me an excuse to spend some time with Jan.  Without fail, he would always come up with a solution and then we would get time to chat about important things such as the latest projects at our respective cottages.

After finishing with Bechtel, I would meet up with Jan every few months for a chat over a plate of fish and chips and a pint of beer.  The conversations were wide ranging and always stimulating.   I learnt a lot from Jan.  We shared similar views politically and whenever I was wavering in my beliefs he would just say "Thomas Sowell".

I will miss Jan very much.  Rest in peace, my friend.

Kevin

My sincerest condolences to the Vrana family. 
I had the pleasure of knowing Jan in Montreal and later in Kitimat. Jan was an excellent engineer. He was a master of structural design and analysis but also brought a unique perspective to every problem, challenging myself and others to think about the best process and outcome. When working to solve design issues on site we would meet and I will always recall the smile on Jans face; the more complex the problem, the larger the smile.  He was highly respected by all for his pleasant and engaging manner. 
He was an athlete. His passion and ability for skiing and hiking were impressive. He talked me in to hiking Fire mountain one evening. It sounded like a reasonably short, pleasant hike with a nice view from the top. I got to the top out of breath and wondering how sore I was going to be the day after. There was Jan, as if he just walked down the corridor in the office, telling jokes and thoroughly enjoying the evening as the group trickled up to the top of the hill, some nearing collapse. The ‘Fire Mountain Challenge’ grew to be a significant event thereafter for many of the project team. When he tried to talk me into back country skiing on Shames, I listened carefully and politely declined his invite or challenge, not sure which as he had a devious smile. Working with Jan was similar, you had to listen carefully and try to read the smile to understand the ‘Jan plan’. The solution was a given, the process to achieving the solution could be an adventure.
Jan was also a natural leader and mentor, with strong values and integrity. He has left a legacy that inspired me and I’m sure many others. May he rest in peace.
Barry O’Donovan
Friend and colleague through Bechtel.


Dear Vrana family/Annik Vrana.

My deepest condolences for loss of dearest Jan Vrana. Jan and I were close colleagues at Bechtel Canada's Aluminium Centre of Excellence, Montreal, in between 2008 and 2016, including work at Kitimat Project site, with Annik. Jan was such a nice person, one of the nicest of my friends in Montreal. He was always available when his advice and expertise was needed and used to share his various experiences to help. He was sea of (technical and other) knowledge! His views were so fair and unbiased. Moreover, he had a smart sense of humor. I know it will be difficult to deal with loss of Jan, but I wish you all, needed strength to be able to do so..

I am currently out of country, stuck in Covid Travel ban, so cannot attend the funeral. As soon as I am back, I will try and meet you all..

My Best regards
Rajiv Sharma
Ex-Bechtel, Aluminium Centre of Excellence, Montreal. 
Whatsapp +1 514 654 0317

Jan had a captivating personality and could converse with anyone on anything.  My fondest memory was going to a typical, dreary safety meeting...only difference was that Jan was giving it.  What started with the audience barely awake, ended with us all laughing and some with tears in their eyes.  I think the worst part of it was when it was finished because we all just wanted him to keep talking and telling us stories.

Jan, to me, will always be remembered as that jovial, zest for life gentleman.

Happy trails my friend,

Victor

The first time I met Honza was at the Lac Duffy cottage when I was 17 years old . There he was, this tall thin guy with a permettant smile on his face hanging around my uncle Milosh. We went blueberry picking with this guy that couldn’t stop smiling and my uncle. Later he volunteered to drive us over to another cottage in his zippy Volkswagen Beatle, where he extolled on the virtues of the car always with that smile on his face, in love with Annie, life and Annie’s family.  Right from the get go he was a great guy.

Jan

You and Anne had just purchased your cottage up the hill when Pat and I purchased our cabin down the hill when we first met.  While our origins where quite different, Czechoslovakian escapee vs small town Americans, we had much in common.  Skiing at Smuggs, snowshoeing, fixing up old cabins/cottages and loving our spouses, children and grandchildren.  We were amazed at the strength you exhibited battling your illness while never failing to support all those around you.  Who else would develop and design a method to raise our cabin for flood mitigation when undergoing treatment.  Alas, our next run down Nose Dive will have to wait.  We will miss you, friend.

Rick and Pat


I was saddened to hear of Jan’s passing.  My sincere condolences to Anne, Milan, Peter, Annik, Michelle, Alexis  ..  all family and friends who at this time are grieving the loss of a truly unique and very special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Jan’s legacy is his family, each member in whom he took great pride and of whom he thought the world. May the memories that you hold and cherish, along with the knowledge that Jan will remain with you in a very real way throughout your life, console you and help you through this very difficult time.  His journey is done, a life truly well-lived albeit one too brief, a life to be thankful and eternally grateful for, one to be celebrated for the incredible impact that he has had on so many.  May he rest in peace and may the family be spared further sorrow.   God Bless.



Very sorry hearing about Jan passed away. I will remember a very acute mind, very clever, a frank and direct professional and warm individual. 

Dearest friends,

Because "words fly away, writings remain" I wish to express my most sincere and heartfelt condolences and unwavering friendship to all of you, Honza's loved ones.
One last time, unexpectedly and too early, Honza put on his pj, as he so often did to let us know that the party was over for him. But like parties, life goes on... sadly for us only this time...
He will most definitely leave a void in my life but his presence will forever be cherished in my heart by keeping preciously alive tons of memories of more than 35 years of friendship. Soooooo  many happy moments to remember!
Under what might have been perceived as a somewhat detached appearance and among many other great qualities, Honza was no doubt a kind, caring and loving person. It shows in each one of you, Milan, Peter, Annik, Michelle, Alexis.
Anne, not long ago I had the privilege to celebrate your 45th anniversary with Honza.  I was wishing you many more years of happiness together. Life decided differently but happiness is still there for you... You will find the way... In time... Slowly... Patiently.
Even though I am not gonna be physically attending the funeral visitation, my thoughts are with all of you, always.

Love
Sylvie

Get yourself a Pilsner, my love, I’ve got a lot to say!
To my best friend, my partner, my intellectual beacon, my handsome and kind husband. We’ve had a long voyage together, over 45 years and alas, your time with me, with us came to an end much too early. We met on a blind date in August of 1975. You came to pick me up at my parents’ house in your huge Pontiac Strato Chief. Remember how you honked the horn and I thought to myself, “Oh boy, what kind of guy honks his horn on a first date?!” But then, the minute I opened the door and saw you I thought to myself, “Who cares about a little honking, right?!” You always giggle when I tell this one but remember on our way downtown how we chatted and within a few minutes, you looked at me with your famous side smile and a twinkle in your eyes and said, “My mother told me that the girl I will marry will look good even in sweat pants and I can tell that you will look great in sweat pants.” Well my friend, then and there you sealed the deal! What a guy!
Over the course of our journey we accomplished a lot, wouldn’t you say? We travelled extensively, we looked for adventure, we attended university, we raised five amazing children, we made long lasting friends, we worked hard, we believed in the strong bonds of family, we shared dreams and we encouraged each other to pursue our own dreams. You were an amazing student and worked hard to become a highly respected and sought after engineer. You were also an amazing prof at McGill. You excelled in skiing which became your passion, something you definitely passed on to your kids. For many years while I was at home with the children you held up to four jobs to make sure we had what we needed and that we could still do our yearly trip to the ocean. I will forever be grateful for your dedication to us.
But, I have to say that being the wife of an exceptionally brilliant man was not always easy! You being so incredibly well read (you had read all the Russian and American classics by the age of 17!) and pragmatic and having a photographic memory to boot and me being, well, a little more emotional and dare I say, a bit of a “leftie” made our many discussions a little challenging at times. As the kids grew older they joined in and family discussions around the table became the norm. And then…you discovered podcasts! Oh man, a whole new world opened up and for a while there I was actually jealous of Mark Steyn! He got more time with you than me!! But over the years we learned to integrate each other’s perspectives into our own and our respect for each other grew even bigger. I learned so much from you and you from me. We really were a good match eh?

Honzo, my zlato, my sweetheart I will forever cherish the many wonderful memories I have of our time together and all you did for me, for us. From that first honk in the driveway to your last heartbeat, we were meant to be together. I love you immensely and miss you so much.

Your loving wife and best friend,

Annie


Aničko velice mě zasáhla Honzova smrt. Cítím bolest a smutek. Ale Honza bude žít na věky v mé mysli jako inteligentní, originální  a nekonformní muž se kterým se dobře debatovalo o všem a který také uměl postavit klec pro křečka tak bytelnou, že odolala i ohni. V mé hlavě ho vidím pořád živého, představuji si ho jak diskutuje s humorem  před bránou  do nebe se svatým Petrem. Nezapomenem na něj !
Annie la mort de Jan (Honza) m’a secoué. Je ressens de la douleur et de la tristesse. Mais Honza va vivre pour toujours dans mes pensées comme un homme intelligent, original, anticonformiste avec qui on pouvait discuter de tout et qui savait aussi construire une cage pour le hamster si solide qu’elle a même résisté au feu. Dans ma tête je le vois toujours vivant, je l’imagine discuter avec son humour, devant les portes du Paradis avec Saint Pierre. Il ne sera pas oublié !


As a kid I had very little positive masculine role models. Fortunately, there was Honza; A man with principals who embodied intelligence and faithfulness. A man I admired. He was knowledgeable and disciplined, he loved his kids and wife, as well as structural engineering, windsurfing and skiing. I remember and cherish his expert advice on love and life in general. I must also underline the epic political debates he used to have with my mother, when I was a kid. Political debates that ended, each and every time, in laughter and respect. Thank you, Honzo for your teachings and your influence upon my family. 

David Goranitis   

Lost touch with Jan after Kitimat smelter construction  but had many great interactions in Montreal, New Delhi, and Kitimat. Amazing how many people he touched being a kind person, a knowledgeable person, a mentor, a true engineer, and all with a great sense of  humour. He seemed to have unlimited energy, hiking up mount royal at lunch, skiing all  over the world, and teaching at McGill. He had the unique capability to interact with people at all levels of an organization while respecting their points of view. Definitely a key member of the Montreal Bechtel team and Montreal engineering community and an example and role model for  me and many others of how things in work and life should be done.  My deepest sympathies to his family and all who were lucky to have known him.

Tato,
I’m very fortunate to have you as a father because of the incredible experiences I lived with you. While growing up we were busy doing activities every single weekend. We would go to the cottage up north, camping in Vermont, skiing, fishing, snorkeling, boating, cycling, visiting a museum, only to name a few. Every summer you took us to Cape Cod, Maine or the Maritimes. We also did many amazing trips together to Europe. In 2008 we both read the historical book “A Bridge too Far”, which is about a WW2 failed operation called Market Garden. We flew to France and drove north to Holland through Belgium. The book was by our side and we flipped through the chapters & maps while going through the villages, following in the footsteps of the advancing troops. 
When I was 6, I took part in a 1km marathon in Outremont. You rode your bicycle next to me and the whole way you were encouraging me to keep a good pace to save some energy for the end. As we approached the finish line you veered away and yelled at me to push as hard as possible. This is a metaphor for the relationship that we had; you were always there if I needed to reach out. I am grateful that you helped me in my courses when I was studying Engineering and you also gave me advice in my career.
Having played chess in your youth, you thought like a chess player and this inspired me to constantly think ahead. At any given time, you were always reading a book. You amassed a phenomenal wealth of knowledge & wisdom over the years and that’s why I loved having conversations with you. You taught me to think critically, take responsibility for my actions and to never stop learning. Your legacy will live on, because I am now motivated more than ever to be a father like you to my own kids.
I have no regrets because I could not possibly have done more things or spent more time with you. These memories are priceless, and I’ll keep them close to my heart till the end of my life. 
I love you and I miss you so much
Milan

Jan,

I could never express my gratitude for how lucky I was to meet you. An exceptional human being. Working with such a brilliant engineer, who understood architecture and never used the word "impossible", was the most rewarding experience and pleasure. Thank you for the privilege of sharing the precious moments climbing Mount Royal, hiking in Iceland and fishing along the Kitimat River in British Columbia. I would have liked to talk with you on so many other topics.

You can be proud of the legacy you left, of your beautiful family and the great family of people you touched during your time on this earth. Rest in peace dear friend.

Ilian


Most sincere condolences to Vrana Family for passing of Jan to Eternal Life.
It was always a pleasure for me to find out that Jan would be on my next project. Jan is one of the design Engineer which I strongly respect, for being a team worker, knowledgeable, diligent, and open minded. 
When I am in the office’s towers around Beaver Hall area, I remember me joining you and Montesano for your yearly, lunch time walk to the Mount Royal belvedere. 
Rest in in Peace my Friend.
Bechtel Friend: Léo Lizotte 


Dear Honza,

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the good times we had toghether. Taking us skiing, boating, water skiing, Vermont cottage's, atv riding, Christmass party's will forever be bonded in my best memories.

Thanks for the best advice you gave me about car's and convincing me to go do my truck driving course wich gives me a fantastic career that i love. Also the hours you spent with me to help me finish my mathematic exams will never be forgotten.

All my condolences to the familly wich i love soo much!!

Rest in peace my friend.
Goodbye Honza, you will forever be loved and remembered by us.

Small Bruno and Andie xoxo


Most sincere condolences to Vrana family for the premature passing of Jan to Eternal Life.
I worked for a major technology supplier and Bechtel was our most important partner on many Aluminum smelter projects.
I used to meet Jan in meetings and Jan was always proactive finding practical solutions, efficient, sincere, kind with a sense of humor.
The world has changed and we are all dispersed, the only constant thing that remains are the good memories of the exceptional people that we met and worked with over so many years. 
Memory Eternal 
Sam Philip Maliha
        
   

Dear Anne and family,

Although I didn't get to spend a lot of time with Jan like Bob did I thoroughly enjoyed the time that I did.  Jan was a true "Renaissance Man", he had many talents and a vast knowledge of many subjects so conversation was always interesting when chatting with him.

 Thanks to Jan I now know how to properly prepare a bagel prior to freezing it.  It was a true aha moment when Jan and Anne stayed at our place in Kingston and brought us fresh bagels from Pointe-Claire!  As they brought us way more than we could consume during the visit I decided I would freeze some.  Jan looked me in the eye and asked if I new how to properly freeze them.  I shrugged and said I thought so.  Turns out I had been doing it wrong for years!  He smiled and said if I sliced them prior to freezing them it would be a lot easier when I want to toast one at a later date. He then sliced all the extra bagels and put them back in the bag for me.  I will never look at another bagel again without thinking of Jan.

Rest in Peace my friend,
Terri

Jan, you have left us all far too early. 

I will always cherish our meaningful discussions that encompassed all matter of topics…from that of stress analysis including the incredible works of Roark and Timoshenko as applied to the design challenges of the day…too formulating chapters for a (parody) book we as engineers would all love to pen “How to Excel at Mediocrity: A Manager’s Guide to Quality”…and then on to an in-depth analysis (and teachings) of how history has shaped current geo-politics. All of this through the lens of a foredeck whilst sharing many a meal taking in nature’s glory complete with mountains that jutted to the heavens and time punctuated by sightings of a pod of killer whales feeding in the fjord.

Your love of family, life, knowledge and friends are eternal.

Until we meet again, good-bye my friend.

Bob B.

I was saddened to hear the news.  I really enjoyed working with Jan on the Kitimat project.   
I recall how he gave me such a hard time over breaking my ribs skiing in the woods, and then literally 2 weeks later he did the same thing.  We had light laughter, since a good laugh hurt to much. 
 


Dear Family of Jan Vrana,
My heart and prayers are with you in this very difficult moment. I worked with Jan over almost 11 years with Bechtel Montreal Aluminum Center of Excellence (ACE) division. I have known him to be a very professional and technically very strong engineer who has a great attitude to life. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Kamal Habashi, ing.

To Jan's family,
It is with great sadness that I learned that Jan has left us for ever. We met when I joined Bechtel in the early 2000 and Jan's experience and knowledge were invaluable to our project success.
I offer you my sincere condolances and may Jan rest in peace forever.
Christian

I recall the days on Kitimat project when Jan and I met each other a number of times at Montreal, Delhi, China and job-site. We used to chat for hours on subjects like, history, politics, religion and of course a bit of engineering as well. Jan was a scholarly man, with tons of knowledge in everything that we can think of. It’s a big loss for all of us.

May his soul rest in peace. 

Here is a photo of Jan which I took while in Dalian, China. We went to see an aquarium together.

To dear Anne and family,
Rob and I send sincere condolences to you all. I didn't know Jan well, but Rob tells a story of a visit he made to the new home we were building in Baie-D'Urfé, over twenty years ago now. It was the day the crane was here hoisting huge trusses onto the roof. Apparently Jan strode confidently onto the building site, glanced up, and with absolutely no preamble or hesitation, declared, "That's wrong!" Rob meekly asked what was wrong. "That truss needs to be flipped around." And of course, it did! In a matter of 5 seconds, he diagnosed the problem and proposed a solution. Rest in peace, Jan, and all strength to the family.

First I am truly sad to hear of the death of Jan Vrana and I want to express my deepest sympathy to Jan's family. 
I got to know Jan when I worked with him on a couple of projects when we both worked for Bechtel in Montreal.  He was definitely an experienced and very knowledgeable Civil/Structural Engineer.  I depended a lot on his technical advice in managing the projects.  He also helped me a great deal by drawing my attention to other project matters that he felt might be  future problematic issues, and for this I was very grateful.  
I also remember with fondness his wisdom and advice on many worldly matters!  I  enjoyed his athleticism from walking up Mont Royal during lunch time to his stories of weekend skiing trips.
I send my sincere condolences to Jan's family and assure them that his wisdom and good work are planted in all the projects that he worked on all over the world.  Jan was a remarkable man.  
Rest in peace, friend.
Joe Wahba        

Honza,

There are endless memories that are racing through my mind, this is how much you impacted my life. It’s a good thing! 

All the trips to Maine. Thanks again for lending me your Volkswagen Fox on one of my last ones, would have been able to join if you didn’t. 

Teaching me to ski the “right way” is the foundation for my passion for snow sports. Watching you tune your skis on Friday night was like watching an artist paint. I’d ask you if you could do mine and that priceless laugh would come out along with “ Maybe when you stop skiing through the parking lot” 

The numerous fishing trips...listening to you talk/negotiate with the fish. Asking them why they weren’t interested in the beautiful lure you just spent $20 on. It didn’t matter if you didn’t catch anything, you were just happy to be with family. 

Seeking you out at every family event where we always had a great laugh and I also left there learning something new. Hours of conversation felt like minutes. I wish I would have recorded them.

Our last trip to Cape Cod will forever stay close to my heart. The two Boston Whalers out on the open ocean fishing for mackerel, stripers and blues. 

Both you and Annie treated my family as if we were your own. The Novak’s and the Vrana’s are a tandem that shaped my childhood. Some of the best times of my life! You are a major part of that and I will forever be grateful. 

September 29th is a day that Dara and I (anniversary)get to share with Babi (Birthday)my parents (anniversary) and now your celebration of life. It’s an honour and a privilege. 

Annie, Milan (Annie), Peter, Annik, Michelle (Chris) and Alexis, our love is with you. 

Honza, thank you for being you and for what you meant to me. An individual like no other that will be forever tattooed in my brain and heart.


Love Mark, Dara, Mila & Damian 



Dear Anne and family,
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved husband, father and grandfather.  May all your wonderful memories help sustain you at this most difficult time.  Our thoughts are with you.
Faigie and Morris Biberkraut

Jan was a humble friend, a bank of knowledge and a wise advisor. He will be greatly missed. May the Lord rest his soul in peace and grant members of his family and friends trust and hope in eternal reunion.
Magdy Boghdady
Bechtel friend

Words cannot describe how you are greatly missed. As in-laws, we had a very special bond. I will miss the times we would joke around with either one of us coming back with a snappy response. I will miss your hugs and endearing smile. I will miss those moments by the ocean when we would eye each other thinking that neither one will go into that freezing water, which we both so dislike. I will miss the many, many trips we had with our 2 families or just the 4 of us. These precious memories are indelible. Honza, you were very special to my family and me. A good heart stopped, but, the sweet memories you left behind will live on in our hearts. R.I.P.

My deepest sympathy to you on the loss of Jan.  I was fortunate to cross Jan’s path many times, from his days at McGill, at Bechtel and on so many discussions on the train home.  

Jan loved to discuss the philosophies in life and work and made us realize through his smile and laughter not to take our daily frustration too seriously.  Thats what made him such a special person to so many people.  We will miss you dearly.

I was fortunate to have known and work with Jan Vrana on Kitimat project. He was a great leader, humble and knowledgeable person. I will never forget his smile when he was talking about his family and how much he was proud of them. 
Remembering his wonderful and gentle soul will forever remain in our hearts, he will be cherished in our memories forever.
May God give him eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain. 
My sincere condolences.


Please accept my deepest condolence for your loss at Jan’s passing.
I worked with Jan for a number of years on various projects and quickly grew to know and respect him as a good friend who would always analyze a situation and quickly find a solution to any problem.
Jan was very open and friendly to his fellow workers and could easily persuade someone to look at his point of view without disregarding their comments. His analytical mind had a good sense of humour which often appeared in his remarks and made working under pressure more tolerable.
I am finding the this note extremely difficult to write because I had the kind of good working relationship with Jan that I have rarely had with any other of my coworkers and I am having difficulty putting down in words how I felt about him.
I will miss our meetings and his conversation and his passing has left an empty spot in my heart that will not soon be healed.
I would like to thank for allowing me to share your loss but I will be unable to attend the funeral but please note that my prayers will be with you in your time of sorrow.


Dear Jan,  This news came shock to me. What a great person you are. I trully think you must be in heaven right now watching over the people you love

Always remembered Jan as a very intelligent with a great sense of humor. Always willing to get on a hicking trail and very human person. You will me dearly missed

I had the chance to work with Jan in Kitimat project with Bechtel and exchange acouple conversation with him when we were at the corporate office

My depest sympathy to the family. As Patrick said, Heaven did win an Angel

May you rest in peace

Michel mondor

Jan was my chief engineer in Bechtel. He gave me the job with Bechtel, and kept my engineering career in Bechtel for four years.Totally I got five layoff letters from Bechtel but he helped to change my positions until Kitimat project was end.
He was not only a senior supervisor to me, but a kind mentor.  I will never forget his smile and his help.




I am so incredibly sorry to hear of the loss of Jan.  He talked so proudly of you, his family, and your obituary is so beautiful – you clearly have had a life together full of love and laughs.  Jan and I met in Montreal in 2004 at Bechtel. I was a graduate engineer and he and those around him taught me of the importance of the profession.  He was truly a wonderful engineer – innovative and always very generous with his knowledge.  I would often go to see Jan with a quick question about work – and would leave an hour later, forgetting what I’d gone there for, with a deep understanding of Quebec politics, ski technique, the economics of food wastage….  And even though it is many years since I saw him, I can so clearly remember his laugh, comedic timing, authenticity and, most of all, his kindness. My deepest condolences for your loss – may your memories be a blessing.

It’s always difficult to say farewell, more so when it’s a good friend and an esteemed colleague. I extend my sincere condolences to his family for their immeasurable lost.

I met Jan at Bechtel. A practical man, offering simple effective solutions. He was always able to explain things simply to others. He did not need to brag, everyone knew his worth. He was humble and lived life to its fullest. 

At work, Jan inspired me to follow my passions. He pushed me to think critically but also, to have a laugh while working. His sense of humour resonates with me. I fondly remember our daily laughs at work and during our dinners. You just knew he was about to say something funny when he began his answers with a smirk and a single laugh “ha”.

Jan uplifted the teams' spirit on a demanding job. The Fire Mountain challenge he created on the Kitimat job site became popular. Many who never tried hiking prior, decided to face the challenge thanks to him. He updated the results and never missed an opportunity to throw in a punch line to make us laugh. He loved taunting the younger competition a third of his age with his own speed. One day, he returned back from the mountain beating my time. He was competitive, he made sure to remind me the age gap him and I have. I had to go back to the mountain the next day to make sure his satisfaction was short lived. But needless to say, he was in great shape! In the winter, he continued to impress us on the backcountry ski hills. I hope to be as fit at his age. 

He spoke very highly of his family, always. He was excited months in advance to go with his family on ski adventures during his vacation. You can tell his family meant the world to him, and he was proud of them. I became good friends with his daughter on that job. I know he will keep watching over his family and loving them from the heaven above. Knowing him, he probably will do so while gliding down those big fluffy clouds smiling down at us. May you rest in peace my good friend!

I am from the US and was in Montreal on an assignment. I had the opportunity to work with Jan between October 2010  and July 2013.  I have very vivid memories of the brilliance and kindness embodied in every aspect of Jan's actions. Yes, I fully agree with the family's summary of Jan. He is humble yet strong, focused on designing safe and efficient structures yet light hearted and humorous, possessed a wealth of knowledge in multitude of topics, and above all a great human being/citizen of the world.

While quietly shedding the sorrows of Jan's loss, I join Jan's family and friends in celebrating his wonderful life.

Regu

It was a pleasure and a privilege to know Jan and to work with him in the Montréal office. I recall the vivid and dynamic conversations we had, some that had to continue over a cup of coffee for lack of time! Humour was never far away when Jan was around. 

Rest in piece my friend, the heavens just got a distinguished resident!

Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
May his soul rest in peace.
May God give the Vrana family the strength to bear this loss.

I had the pleasure of working with Jan  during my tenure at Bechtel Montreal.
He was extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help. Will miss his warm smile.

Venky

Dear Anne

Kindly accept our sympathy on the loss of your dear Jan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time and we hope that the knowledge others share in your grief will offer some consolation. 

Roanne and Ron Stein 

Dear Vrana Family,

I am so sorry for you loss, and deeply saddened. The Vrana's was always a place of such welcoming and warmth, I have truly treasured all of my time spent there and with this loving family. My memories of Mr. Vrana are of a quiet, thoughtful and intelligent man (although maybe that's because we were always so loud and rambunctious!). 

I remember when Annik and I did our Level 1 Ski Intructor course and our Dads took turns getting up at the crack of dawn to drive us to Bromont, it never seemed to be a chore. Mr. Vrana would ski the day while we were on course and we would finish up the day with a few runs all together. It is a very fond memory of new learning, challenge and support. 

My love to you all. 

Jackie

jan (Honza, as he was called by his close friends and family) was to me an inspiration and role model. He inspired me to read books, factual books by reputable authors such as Thomas Sowell. He was my "go to guy" whenever I needed some advice about anything in the wide world of engineering. What I so much appreciated was how reliable his information was; never any BS. He inspired me to think critically. He would not accept any opinion unless he fully understood all its implications. His knowledge of history was remarkable, reminding us that perhaps a little fact checking is in order. He would then oblige us with scholarly details worthy of the best history professors. He was always humble, pleased with his achievements ( I loved how he smiled whenever he spoke of his family) never bragging, never showing off. I also loved how he acknowledged that his perspective on "things" is not always correct. Soon after I met him in mid 1970s he acquired a small boat with a 2 HP Johnson. He rationalized how this little boat was perfect: economical, reliable, easy to handle, got you from point A to point B, in short, met all his expectations now and for the long term. Soon after he admitted that a 6 HP would be useful to propel his growing family and in no time moved up to a 9.9 HP and that ultimately would be the end of his quest for more power. Some years later I suggested to him that he take a look at my neighbour's 17 foot Boston Whaler that was for sale. He jumped on it, 90 HP and all. ( For years we had many laughs about this.) This boat became a focal point of many of our trips together. He and his family in the Whaler and I and my family in a R.I.B. (rigid inflatable boat). We explored Northern lakes, fished the waters of Maine, Cape Cod and Newfoundland. Whale watching off the coast off the Island of Grand Manan NB was one of our favourite adventures. This was not supposed to end this way! I will miss him forever.

Dear Anne and family,
We are so sad to hear of Jan's passing.
Lots of memories from our days of living near the North Branch River in Belvidere, VT
We will always remember Jan and his enthusiasm for your country space, he seemed to be always working on and upgrading the cabin if not off to the ski hill.
Mostly we remember his love and care for you Anne and the children.  
A big hug to you Anne, please stay in touch,  Kathryn and Ernst



I hiked with this man known by different names,
Up great mountains in BC,
He mostly tried to beat me to the top, some might say he was a little competitive. He seemed to have an interest in measuring things, such as the time, or counting the steps, or elevation gain to the top.
I remember seeing the look of delight on his face, as he broke away and started to gain ground ahead of me on mount clague, clambering up a very steep section hand over hand, he could sense the summit was in his grasp.
I’d not long talked through the route and chose not to follow. I turned slightly right on a long flat section which very slowly bypassed the peak he was scrambling up. It was a slow and steady gain in elevation, leading to the summit. As he made it to the top of the false peak, looking down on me, I continued to the summit. I then waited for him to join.
If his spirit roams free, as I believe it does. I think I’d find it in the mountains. Only this time I expect he’ll get there first. 
 

Dear family,
I met Jan in the early 2000s on an assignment to Montreal. Soon after meeting him I understood he was a man of knowledge, principle and integrity. I remember having some very interesting discussions with Jan. 
I hadn't seen Jan since then but I remember him well. I’m very sad to hear of his passing and I’m sorry for your loss. My condolences.



I am deeply saddened of losing  our dear friend Jan. I met Jan first time when I move to our Bechtel Montreal office in early 2010 for couple of years. I always remember his great personality and attributes; smartness, intelligence, knowledge in his profession and more, but most importantly his amazing history knowledge like a second world war historian. We lost a great human being and true gentleman. My deepest condolences to the entire family.  We all miss him dearly. 

Ali



I've been to funerals where everyone's eyes were dry. Where the room was crowded and people went through the motions without apparent feeling. There was a sense of obligation, but no connection. To me, that is the worst kind of relationship, and is one that would not have been possible with Jan. If you knew Jan, then you interacted with him human being to human being. No artifice, nothing superficial. He was a very intelligent man and really good at sizing people up and circumventing the defences that living in an imperfect world can create. When you spoke with him, you knew that he saw you, understood you, and would steer you in a positive direction if you were looking for / open to advice. I think that's why he was able to have such a lasting impact on people, even if their acquaintance was brief. 

Personally, I saw him as the father figure that I never had. The one that I would have chosen if we got to choose these things. It's a rare and valuable thing to have someone in your life that you know you can ask about anything and have them give you a completely honest response. I'm going to miss his wisdom, intelligence, integrity, sense of humour, and the example that he set for what a person could be. 

In my mind Jan is still here. He continues to exist in those around him whose lives he touched. In me when I remember to be present and considerate with others, and share my convictions in a way that respects and values the other person. In the friends he made in Kitimat, and throughout his life, who are spread all around the world. In his amazing family who really were his favourite people and best friends. The memory of Jan will be with me forever, and I know that I'm just one of the many people that he impacted in a meaningful way. 

Anne, Annik, Peter, Michelle, Milan, and Alexis, my thoughts are with you. Thank you for sharing Jan with the rest of us. <3


Dear Honza,

When I see you now in my memories I am sad that you are no longer here, however, each memory that I have of you brings back so much happiness. I wish I could share with you today in person as to how grateful and thankful I am of all that you, Annie, and the whole family did for me growing up. You always made me feel welcomed in your home and brought me in like I was part of the family. When I think back, so many of the best memories in my lifetime included you in them, and I wish I could tell you how much that means to me today. Now having my own kids, I realize more than ever how much of an amazing person that you are for doing all that you did.

As I grow older, I realize more and more that there are people who add more to my life and those who don’t. You were always someone along with the whole family who I would look forward to seeing. No matter what, you always made me laugh, and I could always count on you to laugh at my jokes too. I remember at Mark and Dara’s wedding, I wrote a speech and of course tried to add in a few semi successful jokes. One joke I really hesitated to add in because I wasn’t sure if anyone would catch on. Sure enough, crickets... but then you saved the day with your contagious laugh! I knew I could count on you:)

As I write this today with so much sadness you are still managing to make me smile when I think of you. You were just that person that brought much happiness to those around you. You and Annie were always role models for me and helped mold me into who I am today. Thank you for this.

Honza, Annie, Milan, Peter, Annik, Michelle,Alexis, you all have played a big part of life, and I love you all so much. Today, with this huge loss, leaves a big feeling of emptiness in me. Honza, we all miss you so much, bye for now, but all my memories of you will live on :)

Honza, maybe you can pull some strings from up above and a rig the next election ;). This would be helpful!

Love, David, Kelly, Brayden and Ethan

Dear Honza,

When I see you now in my memories I am sad that you are no longer here, however, each memory that I have of you brings back so much happiness. I wish I could share with you today in person as to how grateful and thankful I am of all that you, Annie, and the whole family did for me growing up. You always made me feel welcomed in your home and brought me in like I was part of the family. When I think back, so many of the best memories in my lifetime included you in them, and I wish I could tell you how much that means to me today. Now having my own kids, I realize more than ever how much of an amazing person that you are for doing all that you did.

As I grow older, I realize more and more that there are people who add more to my life and those who don’t. You were always someone along with the whole family  who I would look forward to seeing. No matter what, you always made me laugh, and I could always count on you to laugh at my jokes too. I remember at Mark and Dara’s wedding, I wrote a speech and of course tried to add in a few semi successful jokes. One joke I really hesitated to add in because I wasn’t sure if anyone would catch on. Sure enough, crickets... but then you saved the day with your contagious laugh! I knew I could count on you:)

As I write this today with so much sadness you are still managing to make me smile when I think of you. You were just that person that brought much happiness to those around you. You and Annie were always role models for me and helped mold me into who I am today. Thank you for this.

Honza, Annie, Milan, Peter, Annik, Alexis, you all have played a big part of life, and I love you all so much. Today, with this huge loss, leaves a big feeling of emptiness in me. Honza, we all miss you so much, bye for now, but all my memories of you will live on :)

Shoot, Honza, maybe you can pull some strings from up above and a rig the next election ;). This would be helpful!

Love, David, Kelly, Brayden and Ethan

Dear Family,
There was never a dull moment when I was in your home. I felt so comfortable and loved and accepted. Jan was always there with his witty jokes, advice and wisdom that only an amazing father could give. He loved to talk and tell stories of his youth and his adventures. He was an exception man. 
I am so very sorry for your loss, and I hope that you all find peace in remembering the wonderful memories that you have of him. 

I had to post again as a photograph has since come to my attention and I thought the family and some friends might want to see it.

The group to which I referred in my first post had our last meeting on November 28th 2018. One of our dinner companions had the waiter take a picture at the end of our meeting.

It took place at the Peroni Resto Bar in the Sun Life building in Downtown Montreal.

I have shared the  sad news with all the people in the photograph.

I will never forget him.


Dear Anne, Milan, Peter, Annik, Michelle and Alexis, 

Our sincere condolences to you and your family. 

Magda & Daniel Cloutier 






Every year on the anniversary of Jan's first arrival in Canada, I would send him congratulations. I am so proud of him and his bravery. He is a sterling example to us all.

I met Jan at a mutual friend's get together and a brief wise comment from him was all it took for me to instantly gravitate towards him and spend the rest of the evening in a political, philosophical and current affairs discussion.

I wanted to start a think-tank type of group with equally curious individuals who shared a passion for political thought and the analysis of current affairs.

It will be no surprise to those who knew him that his contribution was always succinct, profound and wonderfully illuminating, all accompanied by his dry wit, solid and pleasing demeanor and a placid outlook that all together was a complete joy.

I met his darling Anne only several times but easily felt the love they had for each other. A perfect match with the blessing of a large family to amplify and spread this love. 

I recall meeting and talking with Annik at their home and I apologize for not remembering any of her siblings that I believe I also met during that visit.
 I certainly discussed some of the events of their kids' lives with Jan and was very happy to hear the pride in his voice as we did.

My most profound sympathies to his family and I am so grateful and privileged to have had the opportunity to know this exceptional man.

R.I.P.



My deepest condolences, it’s a great loss. We all loved Honza.  We will always miss him. He was a great man. 

Mom

I had the good luck of meeting Jan around 2006 when he was working for Bechtel M&M in Montreal. I had been recently assigned to M&M myself and  traveled to Montreal as needed to participate in meetings. etc., while working from the Frederick, MD office. I immediately developed a sense of admiration for Jan because of his unwavering integrity, professionalism and openness. I knew I could pick up the phone to have a technical discussion with Jan and receive meaningful, honest and always valuable feedback. Jan and I participated in a value engineering meeting for the Kitimat Modernization Project in Montreal and Jan was the life of the discussions providing insightful and often humorous opinions. I  considered Jan to be an excellent professional with a profound practical understanding of engineering. My deepest and sincerest condolences to the family. I'll certainly miss him.

Sincere condolences to Jan's family.   We will miss a great friend, teacher and a guide.  

Ramesh

Tato,
You've always been my guide and the person I turned to when I wasn't sure how to approach a problem or decision. Now that you've passed on things will be more difficult. You and mum raised me to be strong and I'll always endeavor to apply your best qualities in everything I do. You'll be alive in my memories
I miss you dearly. 
So much love,
Annik

Jan, dad, Honza,  will forever be in our hearts. He leaves behind a legacy which as a family we will continue to fulfil.  

Dear friends and family, we look forward to reading all your messages, stories and anecdotes about Jan 'Honza'.

Chers amis et famille de Jan "Honza", nous avons hâte de lire vos messages, vos histoires et vos anecdotes.  

Drazí přátelé, těšíme se číst vaše vzkazy, historky, anekdoty a vtipy o Honzovi.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Jan Vrana

29 avril 1952 – 29 septembre 2020

Résidences funéraires Collins Clarke MacGillivray White Funeral Homes

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