It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the peaceful passing of Ivan Okoren on Monday, February 27, 2017 at St. Joseph’s Hospice, at the age of 89 years.
Ivan was born on January 14, 1928 in Slovenia where he lived until 1951. At the age of 23, Ivan immigrated to Canada where he resided. As a young man, he worked various labour jobs before starting his career at Canada Car. He held many positions there including machine tool operator, lead hand, and most recently, general machinist. He retired after 29 years of service. Following his retirement, he maintained a part time position within the maintenance department at Versa Care. He was a proud and active member of CAW local 1075, Polish Alliance Branch 19 and Bratnia Pomoc until his passing.
Ivan was married to his first wife Anna until her passing in 1984. Together they had 4 children. In 1987, he met his second wife, Eva. Together they had a daughter. He also became a dad to two stepdaughters. Ivan had a generous soul and a strong will with a sense of humour and adventure. He enjoyed travelling, blueberry and mushroom picking. His happiest moments were spent at home with his family and many dogs. He was often found gardening which was his passion as well as trying to fix anything and everything he could.
Ivan is survived by Eva, his loving wife of 30 years; daughter Ashley (Jim); children from his first marriage, John, Suzanne (Robert), Joe (Helena); stepdaughters Dorothy and Agnes (Jamie); grandchildren Amanda, Jennifer, Michelle, Rodger, Russell, Rye-del, Cole, Kody, Justin, Katelen and Michael as well as numerous great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his extended family in Slovenia, brother Toni and sisters Albina, Slavka and Anna. Ivan was predeceased by his first wife Anna; daughter Sandra Jensen; parents Maria and Janez; as well as sisters Mima and Ivanka.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2017 in the Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 North Cumberland Street, presided by Rev. Msgr. P.M. Stilla, V.G. Interment in St. Andrew’s Cemetery will follow the reception.
Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, at 12:30 p.m. Should friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ivan’s honour to the Thunder Bay and District Humane Society or charity of your choice.
