September 13, 1929 – February 24, 2025
Lovingly surrounded by her family at the F. J. Davey Home, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our “Baba” Marija Čolak, who left us peacefully on February 24, 2025, at the age of 95. Born in Korita Mljet, Croatia, Marija lived a life full of love, kindness, and resilience.
Marija was the cherished wife of her late husband, Pero, and a devoted mother and best friend to her daughter Fran. She was a loving Baba to Natasha (Steve) and Adrian (Ali), and a proud Baba to Nico, Mara, Luka, and Kellen. Marija’s family was the center of her world, and her greatest joy was spending time with them.
She was the cherished daughter of the late Antun & Frane Franić and beloved sister and best friend to Mladen Franić. late Mato (late Marija), late Miro (Zlate), late Anka (late Josip), Frane (Simun), late Anthony. Special sister-in-law and aunt to her family in Duzice, Herzegovina and Croatia.
Marija, lovingly known as Baba to many always made everyone feel like family, welcoming them into her home with open arms, where meals were always prepared with lots of love. Deeply connected to her Croatian heritage, she embraced life’s joys and struggles with unwavering grace and dignity. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, filled with laughter, love, and the comforting aroma of her cooking.
Marija was deeply admired for her kindness and unwavering devotion to her family. Her spirit lives on through Nico's compassion, Mara's grace, Luka's smile, and Kellen's joy. In them, her legacy endures, as does her place in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the dedicated staff of SAH Emergency Department and Dr. Siji George for their outstanding care. Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Mohammadi for his unwavering support, compassion and care.
Additionally, the family wishes to express sincere thanks to the staff at the FJ Davey Home – Cedarwood 1, as well as the charge nurses, for their exceptional care, compassion, and kindness during Baba’s time there. Their support has been a great comfort to the family.
Donations may be made to Our Lady of the Highway Croatian Catholic Church, a place that held deep significance for Marija, who was a devoted member and served as the former president of the church’s women’s club, or to ARCH.
Friends and family are invited to visit at Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East, 705-759-2522) on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Following the visitation will be a funeral mass at 2:00 PM at Our Lady of the Highway Catholic Church (466 Second Line East). Marija will be laid to rest in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
Whether tending to her garden with a song in her heart, singing Croatian songs while she made cabbage rolls, or sharing laughter and love with her family, her spirit will continue to flourish in the cherished memories of all who were blessed to know her.
"Kad si bila Mala Mare volila si more"
Laka ti zemlja bila Baba
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