Marko Paulic

August 4, 1947 – March 6, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Marko Paulic, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who left us on Friday. March 6, 2026, in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Born on August 4, 1947, in the village of Batnoga, Croatia, to Kate and Lovro Paulic, Marko's early years were shaped by the post-war landscape of Socialist Yugoslavia. Possessing an early and unwavering determination to seek a life of greater liberty and opportunity in the West, he embarked on a courageous journey. His first attempt to escape via Italy resulted in his arrest and return home. Undeterred, his second attempt led him through Austria, where he lived for eight months before securing sponsorship to Canada, a destination that promised a fresh start.

His immigration journey led him to Thompson, Manitoba, where he found employment at INCO. It was here, at the young age of 20, that he faced a life-altering tragedy, losing his right arm in a workplace accident. Rather than allowing the injury to define his future, his recovery became a testament to his immense inner strength and resilience.

In April 1969, he returned to Croatia to visit his parents. What was intended as a visit to his roots became a life-defining encounter when he met Marija. It was love at first sight, and in a beautiful testament to the clarity of their connection, they were married just two weeks later.

In 1970, the couple established their new life together in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Here, they built a loving family, welcoming their daughter, Katerina, in 1971, and their son, Dennis, in 1974. Providing for his family with the same determination that brought him to Canada, he built a dedicated and steady career in the security industry, working diligently until his retirement in 2007.

His later years were profoundly enriched by the growth of his family and the arrival of his grandchildren, born to Dennis and Cheryl. He was overjoyed to become a grandfather for the first time in 2000 with the birth of Noah. His heart grew even fuller on September 11, 2001, when he welcomed his second grandchild, Joshua, followed by the birth of his third grandchild, Leah in 2004.

His remarkable journey of courage, hard work, and deep devotion to his family leaves a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He is predeceased by his loving parents, Kate and Lovro Paulic, brothers, Mirko and Janko (Zlata), and his beloved daughter, Katerina.

Marko is lovingly remembered by his wife, Marija; his son, Dennis (Cheryl) Paulic; and his cherished grandchildren, Noah (Shannon), Joshua (Jaime), and Leah (Tyler); as well as his beloved sister-in-law Zlata.

He also leaves behind brothers Joso and Zvonko (Mica); his sister, Mare; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

A small private service will be held at a later date in the Spring 2026.

Rest in peace / Počivaj u miru