It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rajko Bakalić, who passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on September 16, 2026.
Rajko was born on May 26, 1935, in Igrane, Dalmatia, Croatia. As a young man, he courageously escaped his native country with his 3 friends (Bogomir, Ivan & Mate) in search of freedom and a better future. He met up with and married his wife Marija in a refugee camp in Trieste, Italy, and they travelled to Canada together.
In the early 1960s, Rajko immigrated to Canada, where he built a life through hard work, determination, and perseverance. He was immensely proud to be Canadian and remained deeply grateful for the opportunities Canada provided to him and his family. He embraced his adopted country wholeheartedly while never forgetting the sacrifices and journey that brought him here.
While Rajko was a proud Canadian, he was also fiercely patriotic and carried a deep love for his Croatian homeland and the beauty of the Adriatic. In retirement, he spent much of his time in Croatia, embracing fjaka. He found happiness on his boat, kayaking, and spending time by the sea.
Rajko appreciated life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed playing bocce, gathering with family and friends for a game of Trešete or Briscola, and sharing stories, laughter, and good company. These moments reflected his warm spirit, strong sense of community, and appreciation for the simple joys of life. He was a man of profound faith and lived his life as a devout Catholic.
Rajko came from a family of six. He is predeceased by his father Luje [Vjekoslav], mother Antica, sister Krasna, and brothers Borko and Velimir. He is survived by his sister Divna and brother Davor. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Marija, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, companionship, and cherished memories. He was a devoted and loving father to Anton and Anica (Drago Radić), and a proud and cherished grandfather to Marina and Adrian. His family meant the world to him, and his presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. Rajko will return to his beloved hometown of Igrane for his final resting place.
May he rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Covenant House in Rajko’s memory.
Covenant House
