It is with the heaviest of hearts that the family announces the passing of Zlatica Leskovar on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the age of 84.

Zlatica was predeceased by her husband Joseph, who she was married to for 48 years. She will be dearly missed by her son Joe (Linda) and daughter Christine Biondich (Johnny). She was the beloved "Baba" to grandson Owen (Ronit) and treasured her special bond with him. She was also “Baba” to Natalie and Emily who she affectionately considered her granddaughters, as well as Natalie’s baby daughter, Vienna who she was able to meet on the day of her passing. Zlatica is predeceased by her siblings Josip (Barbara), Katica and Marica. She leaves behind her niece Carol (Steve), nephew Zlatko (Victoria) as well as other relatives in both Canada and Croatia.

People knew her as Zlatica, as Goldie, as Baba, and as Mom. More than anything, her life was defined by love.

Zlatica immigrated to Canada in May 1964. She came from Croatia with nothing but a suitcase, saying goodbye to family and friends to build a new life. A month later, she married Joseph.

When she arrived, she knew no English. But she learned quickly and worked hard, both at home and at her many jobs. Her first phrases were probably ‘I miss you,’ ‘I love you,’ and ‘Are you hungry?’ But she loved even harder than she worked, always making family her number one priority.

Zlatica’s home was evidence of that love. She lived there for 60 years and was always happiest when it was full, bursting with the joy of countless holidays, birthday parties and family dinners. She cleaned, shoveled, cooked, mowed, hosted, and tended her beautiful flowers and massive vegetable garden. Her home was defined by her unrestrained generosity, her unconditional love—and her unbelievable food.

If diligence and love were Zlatica’s strongest values, then cooking was her greatest skill. Her chicken schnitzel, cabbage rolls, apple strudel, and chocolate chip cookies were legendary. Even a sudden, unannounced visitor would soon be eating second (and third) helpings of something delicious. At Zlatica’s house, no one was ever hungry, ever lonely, ever sad. That is her greatest legacy.

Zlatica spent her final days at home, surrounded by friends and family. She often used the phrase "I love you forever." We love you forever, our dear, sweet Mother and Baba. You were one of a kind and will never be forgotten.