It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Josip Podnar on January 10, 2022 at the Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital.

Devoted husband to Milka (2019).  He taught us all the true meaning of unconditional love as he showed sympathy and dedication to her until the final day.  An unspeakable bond.

Loving father to Rose Horvat (Joe) and Anne Gustin.  Adored grandfather to Michael, Tania and Josh Horvat, And Jasmina, Katarina and Nicole Gustin.  Dear father in law of Vilim Gustin.  Predeceased by his Mother Marija and brother Mate.  Loved by many family members in his beautiful Croatia and in Canada.

Born in Kosinjski Bakovac, Lika, Croatia, Josip came to Canada with his wife and daughters in 1970 to sustain a better life for his family.

He was a loving human being with a gentle soul who touched so many, and became endearingly known as Dida to everyone who knew him.  To know him, was to love him.  Josip cherished his family and time spent together.  There was never a dull moment when he was around because he was the center of every get together.    He was caring and kind and brought humour to every crowd.

Our hearts will forever remember his tenderness and beautiful blue eyes that were the windows of his soul.

The memories we shared will forever live within us.  You will always be missed and cherished but forever fondly remembered our dearest Dida.

Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Sherine Soliman for her wonderful care of dad throughout the years.  The two of them together had a bond which he treasured,  probably because she laughed at all of his jokes.

Grateful beyond words to Dr. Martinovic and Dr. Kazem during his stay at OTMH, as well as the rehab team on 4N.   Thank you to all of the nurses and staff who were a part of his care on 5C and 3N during his final days.  An exceptionally compassionate group of people.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that any donations be gifted to Holy Trinity Church in Oakville where you could find dad every weekend. He loved his church and being part of the beautiful Parish.

Visitation will be held on Friday January 14, 2022 at the Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville (one block East of Kerr Street) from 5 pm - 8 pm.

Due to COVID restrictions, attendance at the visitation is by appointment only.  Sign up here to attend: Josip Podnar Visitation Signup

A Funeral Mass to celebrate his faith and life will be held Holy Trinity Croatian Catholic Church, 2110 Trafalgar Road, Oakville on Saturday January 15, 2022 at 10 am.   Interment to follow at Trafalgar Lawn Cemetery.