Obituary of Ivica MATKOVIC

September 8, 1951– Fericanci, Croatia September 9, 2013 – Calgary, AB Ivica Matkovic beloved husband of Djurdjica of Calgary, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2013 at the age of 62 years. Ivica immigrated to Calgary with his wife and daughter on March 1, 1976 and later welcomed their son on September 21, 1978. He was one of the founding members of the church committee that built Our Lady of Marija Bistrica. He was a loyal fan of the Edmonton Oilers and Hajduk soccer team. He enjoyed his garden, bird watching, fishing, strolls around the pond, and just enjoying time with his family. After suffering a work related head injury in 1986, Ivica continued to defy the odds by living his life to the fullest thanks to the love and devotion of his caring wife and family. Besides his loving wife Djurdjica, Ivica is survived by son Robert Matkovic (Bettina) of Calgary; daughter Marijana Capo (Alen) of Calgary; four grandchildren, Daniel, Ethan, Carter and Kaylem; brothers, Mato Matkovic (Danica), Bozo Matkovic (Djurdjica) and Miso Matkovic (Marica); sister Jelica Kuncic (Frank); brother-in-law Slavko Spehar (Connie); as well many nephews, nieces and god-children; and extended family in Croatia, Australia and the United States. He was predeceased by his parents Ante and Jagica Matkovic. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Thursday, September 12, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Marija Bistrica Croatian Catholic Church (14680 Deer Ridge Drive S.E.) on Friday, September 13, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. A Private Family Graveside Service will be held. After the service, please join the family in the remembrance of Ivica’s life at McKenzie Towne Hall (40 McKenzie Towne Boulevard S.E.) from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. for refreshments. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Ivica Matkovic, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.