It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mirko Kolić at the age of 79, surrounded by his beloved family. Mirko was born in Drežnik Grad, Croatia to his late parents, Dane and Marija. In 1971, he moved to Canada with his devoted wife of 56 years, Renata (nee Katušić), and their son Danijel (Teresa) Kolić. Later on, they welcomed two daughters Belinda (Marc) Williams and Renata (Mike) Jakovčić, as well as seven grandchildren: Dylan, Evan, Magdalena, Brandon, Maya, Adam and Ryan, whom he loved dearly. He 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; many people appreciated his humor and willingness to help others. His smile could light up a room and his warm spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Mirko worked at Center Tool and Mold, Dynamo, and later at Ford Motor Company where he retired in 2006 after 30 years as a Millwright. Ford felt like a second home to him; he was grateful for all it provided for him and his family along with the close friendships he formed there. He will surely miss gathering with his breakfast group from Ford after retirement as well as the many Monday night meetings “Sastanak” in his garage with close friends.
Mirko had a strong passion for soccer and dedicated many years coaching at Riverside High School and with the Windsor Vizas. He held various positions including Executive/VP/President of the Michigan Ontario Soccer League; also serving as referee coordinator for Essex County Soccer League while being actively involved with CNSC Windsor Croatia. His love for soccer combined with support for the Croatian community led him to serve as President of CNSC Windsor Croatia for several years until illness took over. He often reminisced about working alongside friends to keep tractors running smoothly or ensuring the fields were ready for play; he truly cared about this community.
The family wishes to express gratitude to everyone who supported Mirko during his cancer journey-especially caregivers, nurses and doctors from Paramed, Bayshore, SE Health, Windsor Cancer Centre, The Verspeeten Cancer Centre in London along with 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 will continue on Wednesday September 3rd starting at 9 a. m., leading up to the service in the Chapel at 10 a. m., followed by procession to Heavenly Rest Crematorium. If you wish to do so donations can be made in memory of Mirko to CNSC Windsor Croatia or Hospice of Windsor or Windsor Cancer Center Foundation. Online condolences can be shared with the family via www. windsorchapel. com
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