Jelena or Baba, as we all commonly refer to her, enjoyed a life well lived and passed away peacefully on the morning October 17, 2023 at age 89, surrounded by her family to whom she devoted her life. Jelena, predeceased 18 years ago by her husband of 53 years Milan, is survived by her sons John (Anita) and Sasha (Donna), grandchildren Stephan (Sally), Nicole (Randy), Natasha, Natalie and Miko and great grandchildren Emma, Kate and Mila.
Throughout her life, Jelena was a force of nature in any situation or gathering with her infectious, nurturing can-do attitude and smile. She was a fearless trailblazer and in her 20s she was the first female employee reporting directly to Boban, the Director at Dinara, Beograd, a truck parts supply company. Other women followed her at Dinara and Jelena enjoyed a lifelong friendship with Boban as she did with many other co-workers well into her retirement. In her 30s, Jelena followed her husband Milan and emigrated to Paris, France where she acquired a French Teaching Certificate. Milan, a master pastry chef, and Jelena followed their dream to provide better opportunities for their children by emigrating to Vancouver, Canada in 1964. For many years, Jelena was the sales person and cashier while Milan made everything that they sold on a daily basis at their Tip Top Bakery, near the former Woodwards department store. Jelena was always good with numbers and people which led to a banking career of some three decades with CIBC. Retiring early in her 50’s to provide care for her grandchildren, restless Jelena began her fourth career in her 60’s as a gas station manager for Esso. Jelena continued to be active, in good physical and mental condition driving her white Honda Civic everywhere for the balance of her full life. Jelena loved travelling and enjoyed a deep life long bond with her older sister Belka and her family that was an avenue for celebrating many successes which helped them both endure storms that would come their way. Baba was a central figure in her family where ever they were and leaves a big void for many who enjoyed her boundless energy and good company.
A service for family and friends who wish to express their farewells will be held at Boal Chapel, North Vancouver on November 27, 2023 between noon and 2 p.m. A private family service will be held at Capilano View Cemetery.
Milan and Jelena maintained a warm and welcoming environment at their garden home in the West End which was a centre of family activity and many happy celebrations for decades. In this spirit, an open house will be held at her son Sasha’s home for family, friends and neighbours to celebrate Jelena’s life on Saturday, December 2, 2023 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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