In Celebration of

Zlatica Leskovar

July 11, 1940 -  November 4, 2024


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.


Guestbook 

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Miriam (Owen’s sister-in-law)

Entered November 5, 2024 from Grand Cayman

Such a kind person, I’m grateful to have known her. She will be missed by many. I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart. May you find comfort in knowing how many lives she touched. Sending infinite love.

Jeff and Edna Kabelin (Owen’s 2nd father)

Entered November 5, 2024 from 3371 Mainsail crescent, Mississauga, ON, L5L-1H3

Goldie was always warm and welcoming. She had a love of animals, particularly Owen’s rabbit which she took in. She did everything right, never smoked, don’t think she hardly ever drank alcohol, ate healthy (though perhaps not enough), strong and determined. Her passing is a shock and we will surely miss her.

John Badovinac (Family friend)

Entered November 5, 2024 from Toronto

Zlatica 's name to me was simply "Joe's mum". There was a feeling you got from "Joe's Mum", and that was that she was firm, but extremely patient and kind, with our crazy ideas, clowning around, experiments, loud music, constant random visits to the house on Whaley Dr. As the years passed, and we boys became men, her warmth really shone through, when our paths crossed. My sincerest condolences to Joe and Christine and the grandkids.

Carmelina Domizio (Friend)

Entered November 7, 2024 from Oakville

I only met your dear mother & baba about 5 years ago and she touched my heart right away. Her zest for life, her strength, her love of people & animals. She loved my dog Roxy and would come over to my mom’s (Francesca’s) house when I visited just to see and cuddle Roxy. And I would enjoy my visit with her. I will miss having her check in on my mom from across the street.
Goldie you will be missed. Rest in peace.
Our deepest Condolences to all of you.

Raphael, Alain, Cole & Thomas (Friends)

Entered November 9, 2024 from Montreal

Although our paths never crossed, we so appreciate all that Zlatica has brought to our lives through her son, and we feel for him and all his family at this sad time.

Photos 

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