Obituary of Janko Simrak

SIMRAK, Janko “John” - Peacefully with his family by his side, Janko Simrak died at Bluewater Health on Monday, May 15, 2023, at the age of 85.  Beloved husband of the late Mary Simrak (2021) for 56 years.  Loving father of Mirra Lefort, Sarnia and Rob Simrak (Tammy), Camlachie. Cherished grandfather of William ‘Bill” Murphy, Jessica Murphy, Jillian Lefort, Kylie Simrak and Jake Simrak. Brother of Draga Strahinic, Croatia. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by parents Nicola and Anka Simrak.

John was a humble, kind, caring, honest and easy-going man who took pride in providing for his family. He worked at Holmes Foundry for 24 years as a labourer, spareman and foreman. His impeccable work ethic and love of learning different languages has led him to supervisory roles, as well as positions as a machinist and a fire safety inspector. His love for the Croatian culture; the music, dance, food, and wine were admirable as he was always the first to invite people to his home to toast for good health and happiness with a shot of “Brandy” offering his homemade wine that he took pride in making with his children. He enjoyed dancing the polka, waltz, and playing the bass and the harmonica as well as spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, neighbours (Parker St. family) and friends. He was quick to lend a helping hand, telling jokes and making others feel comfortable and at ease. He was a man of few words but had many stories to share with anyone who cared to listen. His home was his pride and joy. He was an avid gardener, an organizer, builder, creator, problem solver and an active member of Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church for over 50 years. He will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Special thanks to the 4^th floor medical, clinical, and administrative and ICU teams for their outstanding care as well as to Our Lady of Mercy Church for their ongoing support and generosity of spirit over the years.

Visitation will be held at the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 431 Christina St. N., Sarnia on Monday, May 22, 2023, from 6-9 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at 10 a.m.  Interment Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, 55 St. Clair Ave. W., Toronto, M4V 2Y7 or St. Joseph’s Hospice, 475 N. Christina St., Sarnia, N7T 5W3. Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com