Handler, Mary-If you look up the term “Good Life” in the dictionary, it is quite possible you will find a picture of Mary Handler (nee Marjia Skaljin); she lived a life full of fun, glamour, adventure and love. After a brave battle with cancer, Mary passed away on February 27, 2011 in the company of her loving son and granddaughters.
Mrs. Handler was predeceased in death by her parents George and Sofia Skalin, her beloved husband, Frank Handler and her son K. Wayne Handler.
She will be remembered as a devoted mother by Joseph Handler and loving mother-in-law to Libby Handler and Philo Handler. Cherishing her memory are her grandchildren, Sheila (William) Handler, Cynthia (Lawrence) Ko, Genevieve (James) Barber and Justine Handler and her great-grandchildren Sarah, Claire and Liam. Loved and missed by her brother, George (Taimi) Skalin and her sister Fran (Matt) Hrabluk. Also regretting her loss will be her close cousins.
Born on May 24th, 1927 in Mrzljaki Croatia, Mary immigrated to Canada in her mother’s arms during the summer of 1929. Her early life as an immigrant to Canada during the Great Depression sparked in her a fierce determination. Her pioneering spirit led her to start several successful businesses, including Star Travel and Tours, Europa Travel and BM Tours. She will be remembered as a founding member of the Gerrard Street Businessman’s Association and an award-winning member of the Canadian travel and tourism community.
Mary was the life of the party. She loved to laugh and dance – and was never shy to make a new friend. She never forgot an anniversary, a birthday or a special occasion; her birthday singsong phone calls are legendary. She attended every invitation extended unless she was ill or out of the country. A love of travel and a keen sense of adventure led to a life full of joyful moments. She travelled to over 70 countries, and will be remembered for the stories she brought back to friends and family.
She was very proud of her Croatian heritage – she was a dedicated member of the Croatian Fraternal Union and loved to play with the Croatian Heart tamburica ensemble based in Hamilton. Mary was a loyal member of St. Joseph’s Highland Creek Roman Catholic Church in West Hill and a dedicated volunteer at Laval house, a tour guide at St. Michael’s Cathedral and a member of the Catholic Women’s League. Her generous spirit touched many through her volunteer work with the Canadian Cancer Society, the Property Standards Committee and supporting political candidates.
The love and respect for Mary was evident through the many friendships she made through her community involvement, career and travels. Everyone she touched was affected by her love and warmth.
She always carried herself with beauty, grace and style, and will be greatly missed.
Friends and family are invited to the GIFFEN-MACK SCARBOROUGH FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION CENTRE, 4115 Lawrence Ave E (one block west of Kingston Rd.) 416-281-6800 for visitation on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday March 3, 2011 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Highland Creek Roman Catholic Church (200 Moorish Road) on Friday March 4, 2011 at 11 a.m. Interment at Pine Hills to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
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