Steve Smintich (Jazbina Cvetlinska kod Trakošćan, Croatia) passed away peacefully at Humber River Health in Toronto. He was 86 years of age. Beloved husband of almost 50 years to Darinka (nee Herceg). Devoted father of Krešimir, Jakop (Elva), and Steve (Jamie). He was predeceased by his daughter Magdalena. Adored djed to Nicholas, Sofia, Jakob, Angelina, Lukas, Xavier, and Samuel. He was a dedicated member of the Toronto Croatian community and a regular parishioner at Our Lady Queen of Croatia Roman Catholic Church.

Cherished older brother of Ljubica, Katica (†), and Anica. He was uncle to numerous loved nephews and nieces in Canada, Croatia and further abroad.

Family was at the forefront of Steve’s values and he worked tirelessly to keep the connections between his immediate and extended family. He would make a point to visit all his relations and would always be in a position to listen, encourage and advise. When family chose to follow his path, pursuing a life in Canada, he would sponsor and support.

Steve immigrated to Canada from Croatia in 1957 in order to pursue opportunities for prosperity, freedom and democracy. He never forgot his homeland and worked tirelessly within the community to support human rights, individual freedoms and self-determination for his homeland Croatia.

Steve worked many jobs in his life (drafting, auto body repair, home improvement, education savings, and insurance) and never lost sight of the “do it yourself” attitude he inherited from his upbringing.

Among his many interests, coaching youth sports; travel; folklore; and a love of the outdoors were prominent.

Steve was very active in the Croatian Fraternal Union. As lodge 515 president he grew the membership and attended various cultural functions with a noted love of tambura music. He promoted fraternalism and Croatian culture wherever he went.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter "Yorke" Chapel (2357 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON, M6S 1P4) on Sunday, August 27th from 4-8 pm - Rosary prayers at the conclusion. Funeral Mass will be Monday, August 28th at 10 am at Our Lady Queen of Croatia RC Parish (7 Croatia St, Toronto, ON M6H 1K8). Interment to follow at Assumption Catholic Cemetery (6933 Tomken Rd, Mississauga, ON L5T 1N4).
Karmine reception at Croatian Martyrs Church Hall, to follow interment.

For those who wish to donate instead of purchasing flowers, you may make a contribution to the Magdalena Mary Scholarship fund. Checks may be written to CFU Lodge 515.