CAVAZZI, Juliette (Sysak), C.M.
August 27, 1926 - October 26, 2017
One of Canada's iconic stars, "Our Pet Juliette" left us peacefully on October 26, 2017, at 91 years of age. She was a beloved star to many, but she was also a loving (and much loved) daughter, sister, wife, companion and friend. Juliette was born in Winnipeg to wonderful parents, Fred and Anna Sysak, and raised in Vancouver. She was also the adored and adoring younger sister to Suzie (Suzanne Sysak Price). Juliette was married 40 years to the love of her life, musician Tony Cavazzi, who was also her business manager. Later in life, she also enjoyed five very happy years with second love, Ray (Raymond Victor) Smith. Sadly predeceased by all, far too soon, she continued to cherish and celebrate their memories throughout her life. Juliette leaves behind many dear friends and relatives across Canada, who have fond memories of spirited discussions, lively dinner parties and much laughter.
Juliette had a self-described wonderful life and her many career highlights have been much described elsewhere and won't be repeated in detail here. She was extremely proud to be awarded the Order of Canada, as well as a star on Canada's Walk of Fame. Juliette was also honoured to be included in the B.C. Entertainment Hall of Fame, as well as the Starwalk in front of the Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver.
She will be remembered as a star to many, with a sweet voice and an even sweeter disposition, but she was so much more than that. Juliette was also a trail blazer: she guided her own career from an early age, she was a nurturer of talent and she was a strong supporter of women. Juliette also lived by her mother's maxim to "always take care of the people who take care of you".
Juliette had a sharp intellect and an even sharper wit. She was well informed on most topics, from international politics to fashion and was never shy to share her opinions or to offer advice. She was also extremely generous to her family and friends.
Juliette retained her luminosity and star presence right to the very end: she lit up any room she walked into, turning heads and capturing the attention of even those far too young to know "Our Pet Juliette".
Hers is a life to be celebrated, not to be mourned. Accordingly, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please contact [email protected]. A private service will be held at her request. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.
Juliette famously ended her TV shows by saying "Goodnight Mom". It's time for us to say a final "Goodnight Juliette". You were one of a kind and we will miss you.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
13 Entries
January 23, 2019
Family
Tammy Miller (Frazier) (sydor)
Never got to Meet you but Ive heard you are a beautiful soul. See you in our place in heaven one day. Love you cousin.
January 22, 2019
Family
Betty (Dolly) Scott
I remember her as a child in Winnipeg, Man. as she was introduced to us as a second cousin and she wanted to take my sister on stage My father Walter Sydor her first cousin son of Mary Kolbuck Sydor was her sister of her mother Anna Kolbuck Sysak. May she rest in Peace with her loved ones.. my Husband Dennis & I had the pleasure of having Lunch with her in Vancouver in the 90's. She was a lovely lady.
January 21, 2018
Jerry Kolbuck
January 1, 2018
Kristina
I remember every once in a while Juliette would walk into the downtown bakery I used to work at many years ago. She lit up the whole shop with her grace and presence and we always enjoyed a lovely chat. She never left before giving me a warm hug. I truly enjoyed those special moments with her even after all these years. Rest well Juliette and thank you for the memories. Now you can sing among the Angeles.
November 28, 2017
Linda J
I loved her voice. She came on tv right after The Ed Sullivan Show. I was a young girl in the sixties. I found a photo of her in a newspaper and as I loved drawing, I drew that picture of her and mailed it to her. She sent me back a handwritten letter thanking me and also sent an autographed black and white 8 x 10 glossy of her. She was so beautiful. I have over the years misplaced the photo and letter but do remember it very well. Goodnight Juliette.
November 7, 2017
Pat Williamson
I remember being with my Aunt Bunty who lived in the same building as the most beautiful woman Juliette, the Star, I even had a Juliette doll and now I have a granddaughter with the same name, will never forget her.
November 7, 2017
Alex Axsen
I have sooo many great childhood memories of watching her sing. Rest in peace, beautiful lady.
November 6, 2017
Kaj Knudsen
Fond memories of her. She will be missed. My condolences.
November 5, 2017
Danny Evans
A memorable lady.Time to reflect on a great life.
November 4, 2017
John S Lynch
Every Saturday night, after the Leaf game, we watched Juliette. She was beautiful, talented and Canadian. God bless.
November 4, 2017
Glenn K.
I grew up watching the hockey game ever Saturday night with my dad and after the game we always watched " Our Pet Juliette " . Beautiful memories. God Bless Juliette.
November 4, 2017
Victor Krisel
I have fond memories as a child being with my parents and grandparents around the television and watching Our Pet Juliette on the small screen. Being from a Ukrainian background, it was with a sense of great pride that we watched a talented, elegant and classy lady entertain the nation. May she rest in peace. Vichnaya pamyat'.
November 4, 2017
Gary Brady
R.I.P. Juliette. Condolences to her loved ones.
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