It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Mato Krajinovic in his 78th year on July 8, 2024 at Toronto General Hospital. Matt was a loving and devoted husband to Katherine (nee Rozic), a loving father to Michel (Diana) and Natalie (John Hrvojic), and adored grandfather of Markus, Stefanie, Hope, Tiffany and Matthew. Dearly missed by his sister Kaja Batinic, brother Ante (Toni), and many other close family members in Croatia and Canada. Predeceased by his father Mijat, mother Ana (nee Josipovic), and brother Drago.
Matt was born on August 21, 1946 in Velika Brusnica, Croatia. On September 27, 1965 he arrived in Halifax on a ship named the Cristoforo Colombo to start a new life. His faith in God and love for Jesus saw him face challenges with strength. He attributed his successes to God's guidance and never faltered in his Roman Catholic faith.
Within a few short years, and through a lot of hard work, Matt had many entrepreneurial successes. Prior to retiring from a career in printing, he worked as a lumberjack in Hearst when he first immigrated to Canada, and then successfully opened his own bindery company. He also started his own restaurant in the 1980s, Esplanade of Oshawa, which offered a preeminent dining experience during its run. Matt enjoyed his retirement in Collingwood and loved nothing more than traveling across America by car with his loving wife.
His family and friends will never forget his many memorable qualities. His lion-hearted compassion, generosity and love for his family are unmatched.
He was a natural born leader and never failed to inspire his family and friends to broaden their horizons. He always brought life and happiness when he walked into a room. Matt's wisdom and humor will forever be remembered and greatly missed.
The Krajinovic Family will receive family and friends at Fawcett Funeral Home, 82 Pine Street, Collingwood ON L9Y 2N7 on Thursday July 11 from 5 pm to 8 pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday July 12 at 10:30 am at St. Mary's Parish, 63 Elgin Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 3L6. The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 401 Raglan Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 3Z1. If so desired, donations may be made to St. Mary's Parish, Collingwood. Friends may visit Matt's online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com