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BORN
1948
DIED
2023
Nikola Ilic Obituary
He was predeceased by his father Nikola Ilic Sr., his mother Mara Ilic, his twin brother Ante of Croatia, and brothers Martin and Ivan of Croatia. He is survived by the love of his life Tina, son Martin (Adrienne) Ilic, daughter Tanja (Jim) Beeds, daughter Nicole (Alex) Sherwood, and grandchildren Nolan, Mara, Victoria, Sarah, Alistair, and Felix.
Nick will be dearly missed by his wife, children and grandchildren, his siblings Stijepan, Manda (Nico), Mike (Maria), and Tomo (Mary). He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Nick was born on February 10, 1948, in Canak, Lika, Croatia to his recently widowed mother Mara. The youngest of 8 children, Nick grew up on the family farm surrounded by his extended family. After he graduated from school, he went on to train as a cabinet maker. After learning his trade, he entered the military and completed his service in 1967. He then spent a few years working in construction in Croatia and Germany.
In 1973 at the age of 25, Nick made the long journey to Canada, reuniting with his brother Mike. He soon found employment in the lumber industry. In 1976 Nick married Tina Scalise of Kamloops. They went on to have 3 children: Martin, Tanja, and Nicole. Nick always valued education and encouraged his children to pursue higher learning. He was incredibly proud that all three of his children went on to obtain university degrees.
Having grown up on a farm, Nick was an avid gardener. His produce was legendary and often shared amongst family, friends, and neighbours. He liked to think of himself as an amateur arborist and often would be found pruning and grafting fruit trees in his yard and for others. Nick enjoyed fishing and socializing. He loved to play cards and cribbage with friends and family. He was a long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and would often help with fundraising activities. With his training as a cabinet maker, Nick used his skills to help and advise family and friends on many projects.
Nick retired in 2008 after 35 years of working at Tolko Industries in Heffley Creek. While retired, he embarked on a new venture, striving to be the best Dida (Grandpa) ever. He cherished his beloved grandchildren. He loved to teach them about gardening and enjoyed having his many little helpers. Nick would take his grandkids on outings to feed the goats at the park and go to the playground. All the grandkids knew where he kept his stash of treats and said he made the best snacks. Nick was also a man with many hidden talents including braiding his granddaughters' hair, drawing, and crocheting rugs.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Mavis Hollman and Dr. Thinn Pwint for their compassionate care.
There will be no formal service by request.
If desired, donations may be made to the RIH Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or any Charity of Your Choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nikola Ilic
13 Entries
Judy & Lenny
May 10, 2023
Our deepest and sincere condolences to Tina and children and their families. May your memories give you strength through this difficult time.
Michelle Trkla
May 8, 2023
Dear Nicole and family,
Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time. Sending our love and deepest condolences in your direction.
Michelle Trkla
Dora & Ralph Sherbo
May 7, 2023
Dear Tina &family please accept our condolences in the loss of your loved one God Bless you
Dianne and Fernando Cupello
May 6, 2023
Tina and family, we are so sorry to hear about Nick. Please accept our condolences at this sad time. Dianne and Fernando Cupello
Julio Longarini
May 5, 2023
My condolences to the family at this difficult time. Nick was a good man and enjoyed our conversations when we seen each other.
Gino Masi
May 4, 2023
My condolences to you all in this difficult time.
Kelly Perry
May 4, 2023
So sorry for your loss Tina and family.
Gina Scalise
May 4, 2023
I will always cherish the many memories of our families spending so much time together growing up. Countless late nights my parents playing cards! Nick always treated me like one of his own kids. Countless times he made me laugh so hard with his witty humour. Thinking of all of you during this difficult time and sending so much love and hugs to you all.
Laurie McGowan
May 4, 2023
I have so many memories of Nick growing up and will always think of him as a guru of gardening. His laugh was contagious and yet he had no problem being firm with me too when we were up to no good. Your family will always be my family and I wish I had a way to make it hurt less for you. Much love to you all. Rest in peace Nick.
Gaylene
May 4, 2023
To the Ilic family,
my deepest condolences. He was a great man and as I remember growing up he had a wonderful sense of humour. I hope you can find peace in the company of one another. My thoughts are with you during this hard time.
Sending Big Hugs
Julie Ottosen
May 4, 2023
Tina, my heart aches for you and your kids and grandkids. A great loss for you all. Julie Ottosen
R/C Wegner & Family
May 4, 2023
Our condolences Tina and Family. May the love of family and friends help you through your grief. oxox
Wendy Stockford
May 4, 2023
My sincere condolences Tina and Family. I hope you all find comfort in the many memories you have
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
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