With broken hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Višnja (Cheri). She is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Damir, sons Anthony and Matthew, mother Barbara, sister Branka (Robert), nieces Natalie and Cassie (Alex), her fur-baby Harley Quinn and pre-deceased by her father Mato.

Višnja was born in Netretić, Croatia and at 2 years of age, came to Canada in 1972 with her sister Branka and parents Mato and Barbara. Višnja went to Croatian school on Saturdays with Branka and attended Croatian church activities with the youth group and dances in the church hall.

Višnja attended high school at Etobicoke School of the Arts and Thistletown Collegiate Institute and later completed here Early Childhood Education (ECE) at Humber College. She became an ECE teacher where she met some of her best friends with whom she keeps close contact to this day.

When Damir came from Ottawa to visit Branka and Rob, he saw the Glamour Shot photo of Višnja and inquired “Who is the hot blonde?”. After their first date, Damir’s trips to Toronto became very frequent and within a year they were married on August 7, 1999. One year later, they welcomed their first son Anthony and Matthew followed 3 years later. Višnja received the disheartening news of her breast cancer diagnosis in 2011 and her long and courageous battle began. Višnja strictly followed the guidance from her caregivers and whenever there was a new or experimental trial offered, she didn’t think twice about taking on the challenge. Višnja made the conscious decision that Cancer would not define her life but rather she would LIVE life to the fullest, gather and LOVE those around her and LAUGH every day. Her ONE life goal was to see both Anthony and Matthew graduate from high school and she surpassed that goal as both have graduated and are working in the careers, they both love.
Damir created countless life experiences for Višnja all around the world while Barbara took away the everyday responsibilities so Višnja could conserve her energy and spend the time she had with her “boys”. Višnja favourite experience was taking a cruise where she could see different parts of the world and share her experience with friends and family. After 12 long years, Višnja is making her final heavenly cruise.

Our hearts are broken, and we will forever remember the positive outlook on life, the warm smile and love Višnja showed her family and those around her. She will forever be in our hearts and memories.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation by using the Make a Donation link below.