elevated qjTEm November 9, 1936 ~ May 30, 2023

elevated qjTEm Visitation
Monday, June 5, 2023 at 10:00 – 11:45 am
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road, East Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated qjTEm Funeral Mass
Monday, June 5, 2023 at 12:00 pm
Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated qjTEm Click here to watch the mass

elevated qjTEm Entombment
Blessed Virgin Mausoleum at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery

elevated qjTEm Obituary
It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden, but peaceful, passing of John (Branko) Slosel on May 30, 2023.  He was in his 86th year. Devoted husband of the late Mary Ann (nee Sielski), loving father of Sandra and Marnie, adored grandfather of Quinn, Kayla, and Jacob and, more recently, great-grandfather of Bella.

elevated qjTEm Born on November 9, 1936 in the small rural village of Sabonje in Yugoslavia (today Slovenia).  John was the youngest, and the last to survive of 8 children, having 2 brothers and 5 sisters.  As a young man, he made the decision to seek refuge in Italy, leaving behind his family, home and country.  Having been caught and returned on his first attempt, he was successful with his second effort, travelling on foot, and braving the harsh winter conditions with only a warm jacket and a sausage in his pocket. A naturally gifted woodworker, John apprenticed as a cabinet maker in Italy before embarking on a ship across the ocean to Canada at the age of 21, where he took refuge under the Red Cross in Halifax.  He eventually made his way to Toronto, where he was welcomed by friends and soon met his wife, Mary Ann, whom he married in 1961.  Two daughters were quick to follow.

elevated qjTEm A strong work ethic and providing for his family characterized John’s life.  He took tremendous pride in reconstructing his home and crafting fine furniture to furnish it.  Highly intelligent and ambitious, John established his own successful carpentry contracting business which he operated until his retirement. 

elevated qjTEm Always generous with his family, friends and community, he would happily be there to lend a hand, fix something that was broken, build something that was needed and give money.

elevated qjTEm Following the passing of his wife in 1994, John readily adapted to the role of consummate host and chef.  He loved to welcome people to his beautiful home and took tremendous satisfaction in showing them around and sharing the produce from his bountiful gardens.  John spent countless hours tending his garden and loved to impress everyone with how plants flourished under his care and expertise.

elevated qjTEm Always a quick wit, John amused everyone with his sense of humour, impressed us with ability to solve puzzles and speak several languages (if only a few phrases for some) and prepare the most delicious meals.  There was no one who could beat him on his bowling team!

elevated qjTEm John always had a deep love for children and he became a grandfather bursting with pride and joy with the arrival of 3 grandchildren. He loved to spoil them with gifts and made many trips north to spend time with them. He also loved animals and enjoyed pampering his cat Cleo during his retirement years.

elevated qjTEm As the years progressed, John began to struggle with the symptoms of dementia and encountered other health issues. He came to rely increasingly more on his family who cared and advocated for him, ensuring that he enjoy the best quality of life possible, including the support needed to stay in his beloved home for as long as it was feasible. The family acknowledges the care and support provided by Langstaff Square Care Community. John became a resident there in September 2021.

elevated qjTEm Now at peace, John passed with his daughter Sandra by his side, listening to his beloved Slovenian music. The family welcomes donations made in John’s name to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

elevated qjTEm