STEFAN JURKOVIC

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STEFAN JURKOVIC May 4, 1922 - December 29, 2012 It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of Stefan, at the age of 90 years, with his loving family by his side. He died as he lived, with dignity and courage. Stefan is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 67 years, Stefania (Stella), daughters Kathy (Larry) Sutherland, Darlene Susan (John Bracken) Jurkovic, and son Stefan (Doreen) Jurkovic. Affectionately called "Baba", left to mourn are his five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. There was a particularly strong bond of devotion and mutual respect between "Baba" and his two grandsons, David and Jason Bowman. Stefan was born in Licani, Croatia, Yugoslavia to Anton and Katarina (nee Dundjer) Jurkovic. After completing his education in Bos Dubica, Yugoslavia, Stefan went on to apprentice and certify in an auto-mechanic business. In 1941, Stefan was forcibly transported by the German army to Germany where he was sent to work in a German Aviation Plant "Dornier Werke" at Landsberg, Bavaria-Germany. When the war was over, Stefan proudly worked for UNRRA and then the IRO. Stefan married his lovely bride Stefania on December 27, 1945 in Munich, Germany. Just prior to the end of the Second World War Stefan bravely, with friends, rescued Stefania and others by digging a tunnel into a building where they were being held ready for transfer to a camp. Stefan was employed for 40 years as a Precision Tool and Die Machinist for Dominion Bridge in Winnipeg, where he designed and constructed metal bridge parts. After retirement and up until Stefan passed away, he fondly reminisced about his friends and workplace. Stefan was an avid fisherman and looked forward to his fishing trips with enthusiasm preparing weeks in advance for the perfect spot, the perfect catch. Trophies were mantled on and above the family fireplace with pride and accomplishment. On one occasion, while casting off a stone shoreline, Stefan looked down and found a rare historic Indian Arrowhead. Other hobbies included Stefan's fondness for his coin collection and his passion for antique pocket watches. To honour Stefan's wishes, a private family service was held at Glen Eden Memorial Gardens on January 4, 2013. Father Michael Wollbaum of St. Theresa's Roman Catholic Church officiated and interment followed in the Glen Eden Cemetery. The family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the caring and compassionate nurses and staff of Riverview Health Centre - CD4, during a very difficult time. Stefan's appreciation will surely be remembered by the bountiful tokens of candy he gifted to his caregivers on a daily basis. In lieu of flowers, we ask for memorial donations to be made to the Riverview Health Centre Foundation in Stefan's memory. Glen Eden Funeral Home 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 05, 2013