Obituary of Sonja Elek

ELEK, Sonja (nee Lazaneo) Sonja Elek (nee Lazaneo) passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 19, 2022 at age 74 in her home with her family by her side. We had hoped to have more time together to make memories, and although it was not meant to be, we trust that she felt our love in her final moments, as her tremendous fighting spirit kept her within this earthly realm much longer than expected given her physical condition. Beloved wife of Frank, and adored mama of Francis and Melisa, and Nona to Frankie and Ifan, she was gifted with two precious grandchildren whom she was planning to see one last time. Sonja also leaves behind her dear sisters Tonka and Meri in Croatia, brother Vinko in Australia, and many beloved nieces and nephews around the world. She loved her adopted country of Canada, but her heart never left her beloved home in Postira, on the beautiful island of Brac, on the Adriatic Sea, in Croatia, which she visited each summer until recently. Like countless others, she was deeply affected by the pandemic, particularly not being able to meet up with her cherished friends for coffee and chats at Tecumseh Mall. She will be remembered as a generous, caring, loving, doting mother who did everything she could for her family and friends. She organized and arranged for the household to be a beautiful environment, and was an active gardener, cook, and conversationalist with many friends from all over the world. Despite having severe rheumatoid arthritis, she always tried to stay as active as possible. At times it was difficult, but she had an innate sense that she had to keep moving forward to the best of her abilities, and we believe this helped her keep a positive attitude despite all the challenges she faced. Goodbye dear mama, and we hope to see you again when the time is right. Thank you to the countless personal support workers, nurses, and doctors who helped Sonja over many years. If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Arthritis Society of Canada. Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel (Banwell Chapel) 11677 Tecumseh Rd. E. on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 from 9:30am until time of her Funeral Service at 11:30am in the Chapel. Cremation to follow. Masks must be worn at the Funeral Home. Reservations are required to attend the Visitation and the Chapel Service. Please call 519-253-7234, between the hours of 8:30am and 4pm to secure your reservation. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with her family at www.windsorchapel.com.