A beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, Kresimir Mayer passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on January 14, 2026, in the loving arms of his devoted wife, Mira, and surrounded by family. He spent the final eight years of his life in long-term care, courageously living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Kresimir was born in Croatia, where he developed his remarkable skill and talent as a goldsmith—a trade that would shape his life and legacy. At a young age, he emigrated to Canada with his beloved wife, Mira. Together, they put down roots, built a life, and raised a family grounded in love, hard work, and community.

Professionally, Kresimir—known affectionately as Kres—was an exceptionally gifted goldsmith. His craftsmanship opened doors to extraordinary opportunities, allowing him to meet presidents, A-list celebrities, and professional athletes. Visitors to “the Shop,” as it was fondly known, were always struck by the wall of fame—lined with dozens of personalized photographs of those who had commissioned his jewellery. His work took him to places and experiences that only deepened his passion for his craft. Among his most notable commissions was a bespoke ring created for Pope John Paul II in 1984. To Kres, customers were friends first and clients second. A visit to the Shop always began with coffee—business could wait.

Kresimir was fiercely dedicated to the Croatian community. He worked tirelessly to promote cultural pride, economic development, and unity. He founded Croata International, a non-profit organization supporting local businesses and cultural groups, led trade missions for Croatian-Canadian business leaders, and championed artistic and cultural talent. His Croatian Canadian Business Directory became a highly respected publication, designed to connect and strengthen the community. Despite his many accomplishments, Kresimir never sought recognition. He preferred to remain behind the scenes, always turning the spotlight onto others.

Above all, Kresimir was defined by his love for people. Kind, compassionate, and deeply respectful, he treated everyone as an equal. There was no finer person—a true gentleman who stood head and shoulders above the rest. He took genuine interest in others and was always the first to offer help when it was needed.

Kresimir was the devoted husband of Mira Mayer, with whom he shared 67 extraordinary years of marriage. They stood side by side throughout their lives, bound by unwavering love and partnership.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mira; his children, Zoran (Betty) and Vesna; and his cherished grandchildren, Caitlin, Ryan, and Evan.

Forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kresimir’s honour to the Alzheimer’s Society or Hrvatsko Katolicko Sveuciliste, Zagreb (Universitas Studiorum Catholica Croatica Zagreb- Unicath)