Ivan Paravan

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ivan Paravan, of Vancouver, British Columbia, on March 17, 2026, at the age of 92.

Ivan was born on April 24, 1933, in Bodrez, Slovenia, to Janes and Pavlina Paravan. He was one of seven children and is predeceased by his siblings Branko, Wanda, Karolina, Rajko, Verena, and Marija. Ivan was the second youngest, and his sister Verena, now 95, remains with us.

Ivan spent his childhood and teenage years in his beloved village, near the Soča River, which he fondly remembered as a place of freedom and play. His early life was marked by hardship when he lost his father at the age of three. His mother later remarried Anton Bajt, his father’s close friend, who became a loving and devoted parent to all the children.

Facing limited opportunities in post-war Yugoslavia, Ivan made the courageous decision to leave home at just 16 years old. With only a letter left behind for his parents, he set out for Canada in search of a better future.

In Canada, Ivan met Margot, a young German woman who would become the love of his life. Their bond was immediate and enduring, lasting a lifetime. Together, they worked hard to build a comfortable and fulfilling life in British Columbia.

Ivan and Margot shared a deep love for travel and the outdoors. They explored Canada extensively, especially enjoying time in the mountains with their camper, and held a special affection for Tofino on Vancouver Island. They also enjoyed skiing, cycling, and walking, and travelled widely around the world, with India leaving a lasting impression on them.

Despite building their life in Canada, Ivan and Margot remained deeply connected to their roots. They regularly visited Slovenia and Germany to stay close to family and never forgot their native languages or heritage. They also welcomed many family members to Vancouver over the years. Ivan cherished visits to his brother Rajko in the United States and to his cousin Živka in California.

Ivan and Margot were kind and generous at heart, quietly supporting children through BC Children’s Hospital and giving back to their community in meaningful ways.

In his later years, Ivan was fortunate to meet Matthias Mellinghaus and his children, Ella and Anton, new immigrants to Canada as he once was. Ivan and Margot welcomed them warmly and supported them to settle into life in Canada. Ella and Anton brought great comfort, companionship, and friendship to Ivan, especially in his final years, like cherished step-grandchildren.

Margot Paravan and the family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Louis Brier Hospital for the compassionate care, attention, and dignity they showed Ivan over the past three years. They also extend their deepest thanks to their friends Linda, Kent, Matthias and his children for their constant presence, love, and support.

Ivan will be remembered for his quiet strength, resilience, and gentle spirit. He rarely complained and always greeted others with a warm smile.

The following words reflect the peace and perspective he carried:

“Please, let me go.

I have so many things to do and see.

Don’t cry when you remember me.

Be happy, thankful for all the beautiful years we shared.

You had my love and my friendship—

now let me travel on my own.

I am not far away, and life goes on.

Even if you cannot see me, I am there.

You will feel it.

I am the light in the wheat fields,

the morning birdsong,

the star that shines in the night.

So lift your eyes to the sky—and be at peace.”

— Charlotte Newashish