It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Slava (Gloria) Druzina on August 20, 2026, in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, at the age of 90, with her family by her side.
Slava Anne Druzina was born Slava Ana Božič on April 19, 1936, in Javorje, Slovenia, to Franc and Ivanka Božič. She was known as Slava in her early years and later became known as Gloria. She married the love of her life, Stanko, in Udine, Italy, in 1956. The following year, they immigrated to Canada in search of a new life together. They shared 63 years of marriage before Stanko’s passing in 2019.
Gloria was predeceased by her siblings Ivanka, Mila, and Pepca. She is survived by her siblings Cilka and Frane.
She leaves behind her two sons, Richard and John (Tara); her grandchildren, Chantal (Josh) and their children, Soleil and Isabella; Michelle; Mark (Ali) and their daughter, Nora; Kyle (Mackenzie) and their children, Arlo and Scarlett; and Kate. She will also be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Gloria loved cooking for her family, travelling, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was deeply proud of her Slovenian roots and, despite her advanced age, made frequent trips back to visit family in Slovenia. Summers at the cottage were especially dear to her. She loved the sun, the beach, and the simple pleasure of time spent together with those she loved.
Gloria was a strong and resilient woman. Above all, she was loving and devoted to her family. She found great joy in being surrounded by the people she loved. She leaves behind a family who will remember her with love and carry the warmth of her memory with them always.
Slava will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Stanko, at Holy Cross Cemetery in Thornhill, Ontario.
Visitation
Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6
Funeral Mass
Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6
Interment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
8361 Yonge Street, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 2C7
