It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Olga Marija Sverko on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at the age of 86 years after a short battle with cancer.

Marija was born in Podgace, Croatia on January 12, 1938. She was the second youngest of 5 children born to Ana and Josip Penko. Marija married Romano on September 27, 1969 and right after moved to Winnipeg, MB.

She loved gardening and had an amazing green thumb. She was a big fan of repurposing everything she could. She was a force of nature and left a mark on everyone who got to know her. She loved her family with everything she had and would do absolutely anything for them. She sacrificed so much to give her children a better life and we will be forever grateful to her. She was a fighter right to the end.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Romano; daughters, Anita and Gabriela (Jason). Her final wish is to be buried back home in Podgace with the rest of her family. No formal service will be taking place.

Marija was predeceased by her mother, Ana; father, Josip; brothers, Ive, Stefan, Bepo and Antonio.

The family especially thanks the Palliative Care Program.