With profound sadness we announce the passing of Rafael "Rafko" Srebrnic on February 25th, 2025 at the age of 97 at his home in Toronto. Rafael was predeceased by his wife, Theresa, in 1998. Rafael leaves behind his daughters Maria (Gary) and Patricia (Tom). Grandpa (Tata) also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Regan, Kevyn, Angus and Hamish. He is survived by his one remaining sibling, Mercedes, many nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends in Canada, Slovenia and Italia. Rafael was born in Medana, Slovenia on April 4th, 1927 and emigrated to Canada in the early 1950's. Upon his arrival in Toronto, Rafael became a parishioner of Marija Pomagaj Slovenian Church where he met his beloved wife, Theresa. Rafael was a barber by trade and worked diligently to provide for his family. His skills using his barber tools and razor strop were truly remarkable. He took his time and the results were the most precise haircuts! Rafael was a relentless walker his entire life. At age 97, he was somewhat of a marvel and continued to regularly walk to and from home to his beloved Marija Pomagaj church. Above all, Rafael was a devout Catholic who was guided by God and his faith his entire life. Serving God and his church was a priority. Rafael was recognized by the Catholic Register as the oldest altar boy at 96 years old! Rafael was a member of the Maria Pomagaj choir from the early 1950's right up to shortly before his passing. Rafael’s smile, strong handshakes and deep hugs will be sorely missed. The family would like to thank all of the doctors, caregivers, neighbours and friends who provided care to Rafael as his health declined in the last couple of months. Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto, (1 block East of Jane subway) from 6-8pm on Thursday March 6, 2025. Funeral mass to be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Church (Maria Pomagaj), 611 Manning Ave, Toronto 10am Friday, March 7, 2025. Interment Holy Cross cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to please consider a donation to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada at www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca
Funeral Details
Show location:
Visitation
Turner & Porter - Yorke Chapel
2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M6S 1P4
Get Directions