Marijan Mrakužić

Marijan was born in Prekrizje, a small mountain town located outside of Zagreb, Croatia. He was the 7th of eight children born to his mother, Paulina who died shortly after his birth. He was raised by his siblings and father in the vineyards of Croatia. After completion of 2 years of military service for Yugoslavia, Marijan entered technical college and graduated with a Master Auto Mechanic degree. After graduation he worked in Zagreb for a few years and enjoyed the single life. He then met and married Barbara at age 25. A son Darko followed 1 year later. They lived together in Zagreb for a few years. During Communist rule of Yugoslavia, Marijan ventured to Sindelfingen, West Germany to seek opportunity and work as a mechanic.

Within a few years, Barbara and Darko followed and were reunited in Germany. They lived in this quiet town for two years, enjoying time spent with other expatriate Croatian friends. Marijan had some friends that had moved to Canada and as a family they decided to move to Vancouver. They knew no English words but were excited to start a new life. After staying with friends upon arrival, Marijan moved his family to a home they purchased in east Vancouver. They stayed at this location for several years. Marijan was a highly skilled and valued mechanic during this time. He loved making wine with friends and family. His wine was treasured, and easily consumed. Marijan was very involved in the Croatian community and was the main driving force with the building of the Croatian Community Centre in the mid 1970’s. He was president of one of the Croatian societies for many years and very involved with fundraising for political causes.

After Croatia became an independent country, Marijan and Barbara would visit several times, reconnecting with family and friends. His love of country was very strong and would speak fondly of his memories back in Croatia. Marijan also loved travel to Las Vegas and was very lucky at the slot machines winning several jackpots with every trip. Marijan and Barbara would also host many visitors and were always welcoming to anyone who may have crossed their path. Marijan was a proud Grandfather or Deda as he was called. He loved his family very much and would spend many hours cooking, BBQing and drinking wine with them.

In his final years, Marijan loved spending time with his family and enjoy walks to Central Park and Metrotown mall. After Barbara passed, he moved to White Rock to spend time and be close with his family.

Marijan's final days were spent at the Irene Thomas Hospice where all the nurses and caregivers loved him and enjoyed his company. He will always be remembered and loved as a great father and grandfather.