It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Natalija Dragaj Skrela, who left this world peacefully on March 5th, surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply.

Natalie’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her daughter Nicole; her brothers, Alexander and Victor (Sandra); her adored nieces and nephews - John, Jacqueline, Adrian, Alexa, Christian, and her aunt- in-law, Dranja. She is reunited in heaven with her daughter Tiffany; her husband Vata; her parents Nikoll and Maria; her in-laws, Mark and Prena; and her sisterinlaw, Victoria.

Natalie was born on November 29, 1962, in Bar, Montenegro. In 1968, she and her family moved to New York City, where she spent her formative years going to school and enjoying all the trappings of teen-hood. Fate eventually brought Natalie to Mississauga in 1981 when she married Vata. Together, they built a life that included the blessing of two beautiful daughters, Tiffany and Nicole, who became the centre of her universe. Through every hardship and triumph, her daughters were her pride and joy, her guiding purpose. The Three Musketeers, inseparable and ready for whatever life brought their way.

What made Natalie extraordinary was not only her devotion to Vata and her daughters, but the way she extended that same unwavering care to others. For more than 40 years, she dutifully and lovingly cared for her father, mother and aunt in-laws, tending to them with care and a sense of responsibility that never wavered.

She extended that same generosity and kindness to all that knew her. Natalie had a gift for making people feel seen, understood, and safe. She was the person you could talk to about anything. No topic was too heavy, no confession too messy, no worry too small. She listened without judgement. She gave her time without hesitation, and she was always present, always ready to help. For all that she touched, Natalie was a counsellor, a sounding board, a steady voice of reason.

Over the years, Natalie and family also opened their hearts and home to many Albanian newcomers. Natalie even gave employment to some at a company she managed at the time. Her generosity helped others find their footing in a new country. Many stayed in their home for months, becoming part of the fabric of the family.

While Natalie lovingly gave to others, she personally experienced unimaginable loss. She lost her husband to cancer, then her eldest daughter to the same. No parent should have to endure the hardships she went through, yet, despite all that, there was a real lightness to her. Natalie lived her life with grace and elegance. She had an unmistakable style, a natural glamour that turned heads. She dressed beautifully, carried herself with poise, and had an eye for fashion that made her our very own Princess Diana. Her outer beauty reflected the radiance of her heart.

Natalie was a devoted daughter, sister, cousin, daughter-in-law, wife, mother, aunt and friend. She watched over us, cared for us, and loved us. We know she still does. Natalie was an honourable and spiritual person who looked to God and the saints to help her family through their most difficult times. We pray that her beloved Saint Nicholas now watches over her, granting her peace and reuniting her with her precious Tiffany. Together, mother, father and daughter watch over and guide their beloved Nicole.

A visitation in memory of Natalie will be held on Sunday March 15th from 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Services will be held on March 16th at 11:00 am, with the burial following the service. See funeral details below.

Flowers are welcome at Turner & Porter Neweduk Chapel, the morning of March 15th .

Rest in peace, dearest Natalie. Your light, your love, and your giving spirit remain with us always.