Toronto – Vlado Perovic, 97, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 9, 2017 at the Dom Lipa Slovenian Nursing Home after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

He is survived by his children, son Kreso Perovic and daughter Lydia Perovic, granddaughter Enelyse Messersi and his nephews, Ivica Perovic and Milan Perovich.

Predeased by his wife of 53 years, Ankica (Habazin) Perovic, Vlado was the sole remaining sibling of six: Slavica, Milan, Franjo, Slavko and Branko.

Born and raised in Dubrovcan, Croatia, Vlado was the son of Veronika and Stjepan Perovic. In his late teens, he moved to Zagreb to continue his studies and apprentice as a master tailor. He married Ankica Habazin in 1947 and their son, Kreso, was born in 1948 in Zagorje. Together, in 1957, in search of a better life, they emigrated to Canada via Vienna, Austria, boarding a ship in Bremen, Germany, with just two suitcases in hand. After sailing for nine days, they arrived at Quebec City harbour, finally settling in Toronto. They were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Lydia, in 1962.

Vlado set up a tailoring shop in his home soon after and began his professional career at Eaton’s, then later Simpson’s, as a fitter and master tailor, culminating in the position of designer at the custom design men’s fashion house, The West End Shop. He worked tirelessly at his profession for the well-being of his family.

Further to his creative spirit, Vlado had a passion for chess, music, gardening, winemaking, hiking, skiing and animals. Always an adventurer and lover of nature, whether it was climbing trees as a young man, or rescuing squirrels and raising them by hand, or later in life, ice fishing with his friends, Vlado relished the outdoors, as he was truly a country boy at heart. Vlado was also fondly known for his quirky sense of humour – his silly antics and playfulness shone brightly whenever he was with his granddaughter, Enelyse, whose company brought him much joy.

Vlado Perovic was a devoted, caring and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Turner & Porter Funeral Home - Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. West, Toronto. (416.767.3153) on Monday, November 13 from 6 to 8 pm.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 14 at 10:30 am, also at Turner & Porter Funeral Home - Yorke Chapel. Interment will follow at Park Lawn Cemetery, 2845 Bloor St. West, Toronto.