With great sadness, the family of Rose Mrakic announces the passing of our beloved Wife, Mother and Nona on Wednesday July 27, 2016.
Rose was born in Barka, Yugoslavia on August 18, 1927. Rose was remembered fondly by her siblings and cousins for the kindness and care she provided to them during their childhood throughout the war years. Her strength and resilience would serve her well throughout life.
Rose worked in Trieste, Italy until 1952 when she boarded a ship for Canada. After spending a year in New Brunswick, she along with two girlfriends, headed west by train.
Getting off in Port Arthur, she acquired work at Taylor’s Menswear and enjoyed dances at the Finn Hall where she met her future husband, Milan. Along with Milan, Rose worked for several years in bush camps throughout the Northwest, and in 1957 welcomed first son Rick, followed by Mark in 1963.
Rose and Milan enjoyed their first home on Pine Street until 1964, when they purchased Roadside Lodge near Atikokan and raised their boys. In 1970 the family moved into Atikokan where Rose operated both the arena and ballpark concessions and enjoyed her many wonderful friendships, returning to Thunder Bay in 1980.
Rose will be remembered as a loving wife and mother and a fabulous Nona. She and Milan traveled extensively, taking their grandchildren on several excursions, including Europe.
She was an avid fan and supporter of their many endeavours, enjoying sports, particularly hockey, dance, music and graduations. She took special pride in her lovely home and gardens, hosting events for family and friends who enjoyed her delicious meals and baking.
She was a constant support to Milan whose business pursuits often took him away from home for extended periods, and looked forward to their many visits to the casino.
Rose is survived by Milan, her husband of 60 years, son Mark (Judy); Joshua, Haley & Jayden, daughter-in-law Heidi Smith (Bill); Mariah Mrakic (Eric TenHave), brother Mike Ambrozic (Darlene) and family, Edmonton, sister Maria Ursic and family, Slovenia and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Rick (June 1996) and family in both Canada and Slovenia.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 12, 2016 in the Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 North Cumberland Street, presided by Rev. Msgr. P.M. Stilla, V.G. of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Visitation for family and friends will begin one hour prior. Interment will take place in St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation, Northern Cardiac Fund are greatly appreciated.
