Vincent Mladenko BLASKOVICH

BLASKOVICH, Vincent Mladenko: January 1, 1931 - March 13, 2017. Born a Kiwi, became a proud Canadian. With profound sorrow the family of Vincent Blaskovich shares the news of his death at Central Okanagan Hospice House in Kelowna in his 86th year. Vincent is dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Pamela; daughter Christina; son Mark and daughter-in-law Celia; grandchildren Griffin, Quinlan and Thea; extended family in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a great many special friends and former colleagues. Vincent was predeceased by his parents Matilda and Toma; Sister Mary; and Brother Anthony. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Vincent was raised in a vibrant Croatian community. Vincent's scholastic achievements and his taste for travel and adventure led him to teaching posts in New Zealand, England and Sweden. After Marrying his "English Rose" he travelled to Canada in 1958, taking position in Hamilton, Ontario for a year. Vincent then moved to the Okanagan living first in Winfield, where he and Pamela were among the first staff members of the fledging George Elliot Secondary School, and finally settling in Okanagan Mission. From his years as a mischievous altar boy to his role as a founding member of St. Charles Garnier Parish Vincent has been a devoted member of his faith community. Vincent was a dedicated educator; his years of service, leadership and mentoring as teacher, principal and superintendent had a lasting impact in SD#23 and the Diocese of Nelson. He was especially proud of his tenure at K.L.O Secondary School; he was the school's first principal and established K.L.O as an academic, arts and sports force in the district. Vincent had a lifelong interest in sports, excelling in rowing and rugby at the university level (and later challenging one and all to a game on the squash court!). Although harboring a soft spot for Detroit he would be thrilled with the progress of the Canadian contenders for this year's Stanley Cup. Vincent was forever grateful for the opportunities that Canada offered to his family, for a long life in this beautiful part of the world, in particular, the sanctuary provided by his beloved "Whispering Winds." In respecting Vincent's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service and interment was held Easter Monday at St. Andrew's Heritage Church in Okanagan Mission. A Celebration of Vincent's life will be announced at a later date. "Teach me your mood, O patient stars! Who climb each night the ancient sky, Leaving on space no shade, no scars, No trace of age, no fear to die." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson. Those wishing to remember Vincent are invited to make donations to the Saint Vincent de Paul Conference, c/o St. Charles garnier Church, 3645 Benvoulin Road, Kelowna, BC or any cause that advances opportunities for education. The family invites you to join them at a Celebration of Life for Vincent Blaskovich at St. Andrews Church Hall on June 8, 2017 from 2pm-5pm., 4619 lakeshore Road, Kelowna, BC. Please contact Jennifer at First Memorial Funeral Services to RSVP, 250-762-2299. Condolences for the family can be sent to www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com