With great sadness, we announce the passing of Mirko Kolić at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving family. Mirko was born in Drežnik Grad, Croatia to (predeceased parents) Dane and Marija. He immigrated to Canada in 1971 with his beloved wife of 56 years, Renata (nee Katušić), and their son Danijel (Teresa) Kolić. Later, they welcomed their two daughters Belinda (Marc) Williams and Renata (Mike) Jakovčić, along with his 7 grandchildren Dylan, Evan, Magdalena, Brandon, Maya, Adam and Ryan, who he adored dearly. Mirko is survived by his brother Joso and was predeceased by siblings Barica, Kate and Drago. His extended family from France, Germany, Croatia, the United States and Canada will also miss him greatly. Mirko was known for being kind-hearted and welcoming to everyone; many appreciated his sense of humor and readiness to help others. His infectious smile and warm personality left a lasting impression on all who met him.
Mirko had a long career at Center Tool and Mold, Dynamo, and then Ford Motor Company where he retired in 2006 after working as a Millwright for 30 years. Ford felt like home to him; he was grateful for everything it provided for him and his family as well as the friendships he formed there. He will certainly miss meeting up regularly with his breakfast group from Ford after retirement and those Monday night gatherings “Sastanak” in his garage with close friends.
Mirko had a deep love for soccer which led him to coach for many years at Riverside High School and with the Windsor Vizas. He held positions such as Executive/VP/President of the Michigan Ontario Soccer League, served as referee coordinator for Essex County Soccer League, and played an active role with CNSC Windsor Croatia. His passion for soccer and commitment to the Croatian community eventually resulted in him becoming President of CNSC Windsor Croatia for several years before stepping down due to illness. He often reminisced about working alongside friends ensuring that tractors and lawnmowers were running smoothly while keeping the fields ready for play. His dedication to this community meant so much to him.
The family wishes to express gratitude towards everyone involved in Mirko’s cancer journey. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all caregivers, nurses, doctors from Paramed, Bayshore, SE Health, Windsor Cancer Centre , The Verspeeten Cancer Centre in London , and Hospice of Windsor.
Visitation will take place at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – Central Chapel (1700 Tecumseh Rd. E.) 519-253-7234 on Tuesday September 2nd ,2025 from 2-5 p. m. and again from 7-9 p. m. Visitation continues on Wednesday September 3rd starting at 9 a. m. until the Time of Service in the Chapel at 10 a. m. A procession will follow to Heavenly Rest Crematorium. For those wishing , donations can be made to CNSC Windsor Croatia , Hospice of Windsor , and Windsor Cancer Center Foundation. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www. windsorchapel. com
Source link
Source link
