Ivanka Matic

With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved ‘Baba’, Ivanka Matic, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born on February 24, 1931, in Dren, Serbia, Ivanka married Svetomir in 1953 and began raising her family before bravely immigrating to Canada in 1973. Though she built a new life here, she maintained a strong connection to her roots, often returning to Serbia to visit extended family. She was also deeply devoted to the St. Sava Orthodox Church, where she upheld her cultural and religious traditions—values she lovingly passed down to her family.

Ivanka’s life was marked by resilience, determination, and faith. Following the loss of her husband in 1980, she demonstrated to all around her the strength to persevere. Her unwavering love and hard work created deep roots and many branches of the family tree, each of which she cherished.

Ivanka is survived by her children: Vesna, Kosa (Leo), and Zoran (Fern); her grandchildren: Nicholas, Zachary (Marlene), Natasha, Samantha, Stefanie (James), Matthew (Jessica), and Milan (Adriana); and her great-grandchildren, who brought endless joy to her life: Mia, Olivia, Barrett, Poppy, Hannah, Mila, Beau and Francesca.

Known affectionately as Baba to most, Ivanka was the anchor and quiet teacher of the Matic family. We will miss her deeply, but remain forever grateful for the time, love, and guidance she so generously gave us.

Funeral Services will be held at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 505 East 63rd Ave, Vancouver, September 16th at 10:00 a.m., with the procession to Forest Lawn Memorial Park by noon. Please join the family for a luncheon at 1:30 p.m. at Balkan House, 7530 Edmonds St, Bby.

In lieu of flowers, may we suggest a contribution in memory of Ivanka Matic be made towards St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church. Donations via eTransfer can be sent to: info@svetisava.net .