PAHULJE, Zinka Pahulje

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother  passed away peacefully in her sleep at Trillium Hospital in Mississauga, in her 100th year on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

Terezija, lovingly known as Zinka, or simply “Mama,” was born in Dobrova, Slovenia, the second youngest of nine children. At the end of the Second World War, at just 18 years old, she endured a harrowing journey to freedom, escaping to Austria to flee communist Yugoslavia. Alone and separated from her immediate family, she spent three years in a displaced persons camp. In 1948, she embraced the opportunity to begin anew in Canada.

Upon arriving, Zinka worked as a domestic in Quebec City, fulfilling a one-year contract before moving to Toronto in 1949. There, she met the love of her life and soulmate, Janez (John). They married in 1951 and built a life together rooted in deep faith, love, and devotion to family.

Mama was a gentle and selfless soul, a devoted wife who lovingly supported Janez through many years of health challenges. She was a hardworking and nurturing mother who faced life’s hardships with quiet strength and without complaint. Her unwavering faith in God was her guiding light and a constant source of comfort throughout her life.

Zinka Pahulje took immense pride in her family and found great joy in her role as “Mama” and “Stara Mama.” She set a beautiful example for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passing down her love of Slovenian heritage while embracing Canada with gratitude and pride for the life and opportunities it gave her.

Predeceased by her beloved husband Janez and her dear son Andy, Zinka will be lovingly remembered by her children Marinka (Gary), John (Veronica), and daughter-in-law Carla. She was a cherished Mama to Greg, Martin (Lisa), Thomas, Kate (Paul), Rebecca (Richard), Laura, Mark (Kassandra), and Paul, and a proud Stara Mama to Hudson, Richard, Nathan, Teia, Ella, and Clara. She will also be fondly remembered by extended family and friends in Canada and Slovenia.

Friends will be received at Ridley Funeral Home, 3080 Lake Shore Blvd. W. (between Islington and Kipling Aves., at 14th St.), on Monday, May 4, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church (739 Brown’s Line) on Tuesday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, 6933 Tomken Road, Mississauga.