Nikola (Nick) Ilic of Kamloops, BC passed away peacefully April 27, 2023 at the age of 75.
He was predeceased by his father Nikola Ilic Sr., his mother Mara Ilic, his twin brother Ante of Croatia, and brothers Martin and Ivan of Croatia. He is survived by the love of his life Tina, son Martin (Adrienne) Ilic, daughter Tanja (Jim) Beeds, daughter Nicole (Alex) Sherwood, and grandchildren Nolan, Mara, Victoria, Sarah, Alistair, and Felix.
Nick will be dearly missed by his wife, children and grandchildren, his siblings Stijepan, Manda (Nico), Mike (Maria), and Tomo (Mary), and brother-in-law Joe (Karen) Scalise and sister-in-law Maria Scalise. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Nick was born on February 10, 1948, in Canak, Lika, Croatia to his recently widowed mother Mara. The youngest of 8 children, Nick grew up on the family farm surrounded by his extended family. After he graduated from school, he went on to train as a cabinet maker. After learning his trade, he entered the military and completed his service in 1967. He then spent a few years working in construction in Croatia and Germany.
In 1973 at the age of 25, Nick made the long journey to Canada, reuniting with his brother Mike. He soon found employment in the lumber industry. In 1976 Nick married Tina Scalise of Kamloops. They went on to have 3 children: Martin, Tanja, and Nicole. Nick always valued education and encouraged his children to pursue higher learning. He was incredibly proud that all three of his children went on to obtain university degrees.
Having grown up on a farm, Nick was an avid gardener. His produce was legendary and often shared amongst family, friends, and neighbours. He liked to think of himself as an amateur arborist and often would be found pruning and grafting fruit trees in his yard and for others. Nick enjoyed fishing and socializing. He loved to play cards and cribbage with friends and family. He was a long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and would often help with fundraising activities. With his training as a cabinet maker, Nick used his skills to help and advise family and friends on many projects.
Nick retired in 2008 after 35 years of working at Tolko Industries in Heffley Creek. While retired, he embarked on a new venture, striving to be the best Dida (Grandpa) ever. He cherished his beloved grandchildren. He loved to teach them about gardening and enjoyed having his many little helpers. Nick would take his grandkids on outings to feed the goats at the park and go to the playground. All the grandkids knew where he kept his stash of treats and said he made the best snacks. Nick was also a man with many hidden talents including braiding his granddaughters’ hair, drawing, and crocheting rugs.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Mavis Hollman and Dr. Thinn Pwint for their compassionate care.
There will be no formal service by request.
If desired, donations may be made to the RIH Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or any charity of your choice.
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