February 4, 1930 - January 5, 2020
Mate Jelic was born near Sibenik, Croatia on February 4, 1930 to Ante Jelic and Ana Petkovic. He had 3 brothers and 1 sister. As a young man, he joined the Jugoslavian Navy where he served for several years before emigrating to Canada in 1957.
He found work in Kamloops, B.C., but soon settled in Vancouver. It was here that he married his wife Marie, in 1963. In the 1970's, the family bought a hobby farm in Chilliwack, where they raised a variety of crops and animals for pleasure and sale.
Marie also worked as a school teacher. Matt was a jack of all trades. He was an avid inventor and could fix anything. He built his own house, and enjoyed cabinet and furniture making, bee keeping, gardening, fishing, cooking and wine making, among other pastimes. He also loved to sing, play the accordion and dance. He had spent several years playing in dance hall bands in his youth. He was able to speak several languages including his native Yugoslavian tongues, Italian and German.
Matt and Marie spent their retirement years travelling, especially to Europe and California, but to various other world locales, as well. Croatia was a favourite destination for many years. They also enjoyed time spent in their motorhome and boat.
Matt is survived by his wife of 56 years, one daughter, one son, 3 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous extended family.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2020 at 1 pm from Sardis Community Church, 45625 South Sumas Road. Reception will follow at Sardis Community Church.