Born – Dolnje Bistrice, Slovenia
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Maria Kustec on April 19, 2017. She died peacefully surrounded by immediate and close family members. "Mama" will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her children and grandchildren: daughters Diane (Rick), Frances (Mike) and Yvonne, son John (Beverly) and their children Allison, Jackson and Davis. She will be greatly missed by her sisters Angela (John) and Darinka (Stefan), brother Slavi (Francka) and all her nieces, nephews and the many friends she made over the years. Maria is predeceased by her husband of over 55 years, John (Papa to the kids), brothers Martin, Tone, Ignac and Ivan and sisters Tereza and Ancka. Maria lived for her family and joyously prepared amazing meals for family and friends to share. Anyone who experienced one of her famous dinners knew that it was an occasion not just for food and Papa's wine, it was also about togetherness, love and laughter. All were welcome at Mama's. She was a tower of strength, incredibly hardworking, passionate about her cooking, loved her garden, stories about angels and was a huge fan of Elvis Presley. She dealt with tremendous adversity during her life and faced it with courage and perseverance. Mom had the most beautiful smile and her passing is a huge loss for all of us. She will be dearly missed. We love you Mom! The family would like to thank the incredible staff at the Intensive Care Unit of Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital who were so caring for Maria and helpful to the family. Visitations will be held at the Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West in Oakville on Monday April 24, 2017 between 2-4 and 7-9pm. The Funeral Service will be held at St Andrew Catholic Church, 47 Reynolds Street in Oakville on Tuesday April 25, 2017 at 10am. Burial to take place at Glen Oaks Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Oakville Trafalgar Hospital online and directed to the Intensive Care Unit or to the Carlo Fidani Regional Cancer Centre at Credit Valley Hospital.