Joseph Mavrinac, - Obituaries | Timiskaming Funeral Cooperative

Joseph Mavrinac,

JOSEPH MAVRINAC,

2021

Joseph “Joe” Mavrinac passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Kirkland Lake, ON on February 21, 2015, one month shy of his 91st birthday. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Millie, and was father to Diane Mavrinac-Ross and her husband Jeffery Ross of Toronto and Mary Ann Mavrinac and her husband Peter van Schie of Rochester, NY; and proud grandfather of Sara Ann and Katherine. Born in Croatia on March 20, 1924, Joe immigrated to Canada with his parents, Ivan and Danica and brother John in 1929, first living in Boston Creek, and then moving to Kirkland Lake. Joe proudly served his country in World War II in the Royal Canadian Navy aboard the Battleford and Trail (corvettes) seeing active service, North Atlantic Convoy Duty. He was a life Member, Royal Canadian Legion, and recipient of the 60 Year Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. He served as President, Branch 87, Vice President, Provincial Command, and District Commander (K), Royal Canadian Legion. A Northerner through and through, Joe was the Mayor of the Town of Kirkland Lake from 1981 to 1997 after many years in the hospitality industry as owner of the Teck Hotel and the Bon Air Motor Inn when he served as President of the Ontario Hotel and Motel Association and Vice-President, Hotel Association of Canada. He worked tirelessly for the economic vibrancy of Kirkland Lake and Northern Ontario as a whole. While serving as Mayor, he was the recipient of the Executive Award, Federation of Northeastern Ontario Municipalities, was President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, was named to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Honour Roll, and was a Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. In recognition of his contribution to the Town of Kirkland Lake, in 2000, the Joe Mavrinac Community Complex was named in his honour. After being Mayor, Joe was appointed to the Ontario Realty Corporation Board where he served as Chairman from 1998-2000 and the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services in 2001. A loving husband and father, a proud Canadian and veteran, a leader, a friend, a life member of the Croatian Fraternal Union, an outstanding athlete, an ardent Blue Jays’ fan, and a true Northerner, Joe will be dearly missed. The family wishes to thank the loving care their father received from the entire staff of Teck Pioneer Residence, Kirkland Lake, and formerly the staff of the Regency Retirement Home, Mississauga.The Mavrinac Family will welcome friends at the French Family Funeral Home (111 Burnside Drive, Kirkland Lake, ON P2N 3L1) on Monday February 23 at 2-4 pm and 7-9pm (Legion Service). The Funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Holy Name of Jesus on Tuesday February 24 at 10:00 am. In Memorium contributions to the Kirkland & District Hospital Foundation would be gratefully appreciated.Offer Condolence for the family of Joseph Mavrinac

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61 messages received

I was a reporter at the (then) Northern Daily News in the early 80s. Your dad was a hoot! He was always willing to pose for ridiculous photographs and was available to comment on anything. Millie was a delight too. She’d make me sandwiches whenever I dropped by. They made the life of a rookie reporter a lot easier, and a lot of fun. And God, I loved his fur coat! They are still in my memory after 30 plus years.

Margaret Montrose, March 1, 2021

Mary Ann, Sending my condolences on the passing of your dad. I’m so glad that he was able to go back to his favorites Kirkland Lake. I had most recently attempted to contact him in hopes that he could attend my 90 th birthday but unfortunately he had left by then. I always enjoy hearing from you at Christmas. I have very poor eyesight and I am no longer able to send cards. I’ll miss my calls to your dad on your mom’s birthday. I’ll always have the fondest memories of your mom and dad. If you’re ever in Toronto please stop by for a visit as I’d love to see you again. Fondly Agnes Assad

Agnes Assad, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann and Diane I just found out about the death of your father. I am so sorry. Like many people, I had hoped that he could have a few more years after his return to KL. I considered your parents to be very good friends of mine. We had many wonderful times together. What wonderful hosts your parents were! Great food always. I hope that it is comforting for you to read all the nice tributes that people have sent about your Dad. He was much admired and did a lot of good things for Kirkland Lake. Your mother was a great person too! I hope you are both well – your parents were so proud of you both! Thinking of you during this sad time Betty R

Betty Rumball, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann and Diane, I liked your dad very much. I remember him riding a horse down Government Rdo during the Winter Carnival parades, and serving delicious roast beef dinners at the Teck Hotel after skiing. He was always smiling, and truly interested in what was happening in our lives. Kind of special for somebody who prefers to be quiet! One year, as a teenager, right about this time of year, it was his birthday … The grown-ups had a party for him at the A-frames at Raven Mountain, and I baked a chocolate cake for him. He made a fuss. So nice, I’ll always remember him. I’m very sorry for your loss, he was a very good friend to our family, Jane

Jane (Rumball) Webber, March 1, 2021

I lived in Kirkland Lake for several years in the late sixties and early seventies. I knew Joe as did most people in the community. My husband, Richard, and I rented a house from him. Everyone liked him and he was so approachable. Glad to hear he lived a long and productive life. I am sure the family will miss him terribly. My condolences.

Carmel MacLeod, March 1, 2021

The City of Timmins,Mayor and Council send our deepest condolences to the Mavrinac Family during this difficult time. A donation to the Kirkland and District Hospital will be made in memory of Mr. Joe Mavrinac

The City of Timmins - Mayor and Council, March 1, 2021

The name “Joe Mavrinac” brings to mind memories of many challenging – yet happy and productive times in Northern Ontario. During my long tenure as Mayor of Timmins, Joe was always an inspiration as well as a mentor to me. Joe and Millie Mavrinac made a great contribution to life in this area of Ontario as well as to the entire Province and Country. To Diane and Jeffery Mary Ann and Peter Sara Ann and Catherine I extend sincere condolences. Joe was as proud of you as I know you were as proud of him. Victor M. Power C.M. Timmins, Ontario

Victor M. Power C.M., March 1, 2021

Diane Mavrinac Ross Diane just wanted to say how sorry I was hear about the passing of your father. As you know I have many wonderful dinners with your father at the Albany Club when he joined our table. I look forward to seeing you at the club in the near future. My deepest condolences James Chestnutt

James Chestnutt, March 1, 2021

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of your father. I grew up across the street from your parents and I fondly remember them working together in the yard, the most admired yard in the neighbourhood. They were both such kind people and they are permanent fixtures in my childhood memories. You must be so proud that your father was so admired. Kerry Pochopsky

Kerry Whitney (Pochopsky), March 1, 2021

Please accept our condolences from the Straka family. Alhough we left K.L. many years ago, we still remember Joe fondly and will keep him in our memory. With best regards, Manfred and Nelda

Manfred and Nelda Straka, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann, Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of your father. You must have many memories that will comfort you now and in the future. Janet

Janet Kaufman, March 1, 2021

Mary-Ann & Peter, Our thoughts are with you at this time. Your dad spoke at our wedding some 32 years ago, not as mayor, but as a friend of the Visko’s and of his Croation community that he was so very proud to be a part of. I will always remember he and your mother in mass in the same pew every Sunday – a good and faithful servant, may he rest in peace. xo

Ray & Janice Viskovich, March 1, 2021

So sorry to hear! Joe Mavrinac was a visionary who fought tirelessly for the future of Kirkland Lake. His brilliance helped ensure that Kirkland Lake will remain the vibrant community it is today! He was a great man – with a great sense of humor! sincerely, Todd Thicke

Todd Thicke, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann and Peter, Thinking of you at this difficult time. We know how much you will miss Mary Ann’s wonderful Dad. Much love, Lorna and Fred

Lorna Rourke and Fred Boer, March 1, 2021

My condolences to the Mavrinac family and close friends. Joe was the real deal inside and outside of politics as he was a true leader and someone you could talk to and trust. He sure was a one of a kind guy and know I enjoyed meeting him and chatting on any subject of interest. Joe – Rest in Peace!

Mike McArthur, March 1, 2021

Joe was a surrogate guardian to my grandparents, Issie and Willis Greer in their later years of declining health. His kindness to them was a great comfort to our family. It was among their proudest moments when Joe named me official Ambassador at Large for Kirkland Lake and presented me with a citation and a ring with the town insignia. The ring is buried with my grandfather. With love and appreciation for a great man and a treasure to our hometown. Alan Thicke.

Alan Thicke, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann and Peter, Diane and Jeff, and grandchildren, Linda and I are thinking of you today and remember what a wonderful man your Dad was. He was Mr. Kirkland Lake and left a wonderful legacy, both in terms of his town and his family. May his memory be for a blessing. Linda and Walter Zimmerman, London, Ontario

Walter Zimmerman, March 1, 2021

Mary-Anne & Diane: Your father was an inspiration and role model for anyone with a desire to serve their community. From Chief Joe Teck to Mayor and everything else in between, your father always represented KL with pride, integrity and respect. My parents were able to enjoy a great friendship with Joe and Millie and we always looked forward to join them for dinner in KL and Florida. May you find peace in your memories and the fond admiration that everyone has for your Dad.

Bryan & Louise Bennetts, Timmins, March 1, 2021

Diane and Mary Ann- our condolences So many memories with your Father and family going back to Comfort St, Porteous Ave (your father helped build our house there), our kids having photo ops with the Mayor at daycare and of course, Raven Mt. Your parents were special in so many lives and your Father was truly a dedicated Northerner and a constant Kirkland Lake promoter. We cannot be with you to remember him but we will not forget him. All of us can only wish for another leader of his quality. Take care and all the best. Paul & Patricia Friends and neighbours

Paul & Patricia Arney, March 1, 2021

Hello Diane and Mary-Ann I am so sorry to hear of the passing your your dad. I do remember him well, as well as you girls, and your dearly departed Mom, Millie. You were my special little sisters as I baby sat you those many long years ago. It is amazing how time passes so quickly, for it seems just last week I sat in your home taking care of you. I have raised 2 sons in Columbus Ohio and am now long retired from teaching, and the US army, where I served as a microbiologist and medical Disaster planner. I have lived in Florida these last 10 years, enjoying golf and seeing old Kirkland Lake friends hers in Sarasota. My love and blessings to you both and your families as you pass through these difficult days ahead. Much Love Lynne.

Lynne Grover, March 1, 2021

Hi Diane and Mary Anne, it was a privilege to have taking care of your father. Sorry for your loss but after such a full life full of accomplishment and fill with challenges, it was time for him to go home and to be reunite with your mother. Now he will be both of you at all times. Your father was very lucky to have very good family support. Take care and again my condolences Suzanne Perreault

Suzanne Perreault, March 1, 2021

Mary Ann, My sympathy goes out to you and to your family. When I read the obituary in today’s G &M I remembered meeting your Dad at your UTM retirement party and being impressed with how proud he was of you and how much he enjoyed the celebration of your accomplishments. You must take after him – the obituary attests to his own successful life and many accomplishments. It’s always hard to lose a parent. I’m thinking of you, Joan

Joan Leishman, March 1, 2021

Deepest regret to the family members. Joe was a great leader, community-minded and of generous spirit. RIP, you will be fondly remembered.

Kelley Parker Evans, March 1, 2021

Joe….What hasn’t been said about a GREAT Man, Father, Grandfather and Husband he was…..his legacy of his accomplishments will live on forever…..you as daughters should be and I’m sure you are so very proud of him…..like the quote goes….when someone you lose becomes a memory, that memory becomes a Treasure…Condolences to you All.

Rick and Judy Gervais, March 1, 2021

On behalf of my parents, Bob and Mary Ash (both deceased), and myself, I would like to make a donation to the hospital in memory of Joe, who we all admired and respected. Bill Ash

William Ash, March 1, 2021

During my years at Global News Joe Mavrinac stood out as the most thoughtful, sensitive and honest politician I ever dealt with. R.I.P. Joe.

John Dawe, March 1, 2021

Well another chunk of northern history has been chipped away.But his mark will endure.He was a big kid when I was little,but I admired him then as I do now.I Left my birthplace may decades ago: but his presence and his involvements were always mentioned in conversations about good old Kirkland. To you his loving family, I send my condolences. To all I say: What a Canadian! What a Northener! What a Man!

Dr Brian Thicke, March 1, 2021

Dear Mary Ann, We are so sorry to hear about your Dad. We thought he was doing better after he moved back to Kirkland Lake. He loved the Kirkland Lake area and we are sure that, when you visited him, you saw how happy he was to be back there among people he knew and remembered. The North was special for him. We know you will miss him but remember all of the good times with him and cherish those memories. We will be thinking of you. June and Roy

June Seel, March 1, 2021

Joe was a great Canadian and it was my privilege to call him friend. He was nominated for his service to Canada more than once for the Order of Canada. The fact he did bnot receive it add him no more worthy

Michael Barnes, C.M., March 1, 2021

Please accept our sincere condolences. Joe was a great man, an enthusiastic member of our community, as well as a loving husband to Millie, a proud father to Diane and Mary-Ann. He was so happy to come back to KL and settle in at TPR., and we hoped he’d have a few more years to enjoy his stay there. All the best to the family- I remember playing for Millie’s funeral, and I’d have loved to participate in Joe’s. We are in Florida for the winter, so our thoughts and prayers will travel a long way to be with you in spirit.

Margaret and Michael McCrank, March 1, 2021

Dear Diane and Mary Ann, We were very sorry to hear about your father’s passing. Please accept our sincere condolences. Dunja and Barry Peric Kukuljanovo, Croatia

Dunja and Berislav Peric, March 1, 2021

Diane and Mary Ann and families, Please accept my condolences for your loss. Joe was one of the first friends I made when I moved to Kirkland Lake in the early 1950’s. I met him at the Teck Hotel. He was a great bartender and our friendship continued throughout the years. Joe was an astute politician and a dedicated mayor to the town he loved. I appreciate the visits I had with Joe this past Fall. He will be missed.

Gerry Hunt, March 1, 2021

I knew Joe when I was on the AMO board and established a true friendship with him. He was a gentleman always looking at the whole picture, and never quick to pass judgement on issues…..yet had a deep commitment to do the right thing, for the right reasons. He was a man of great character…..positive in outlook, honest to the core, hard working, dependable….one could go on and on about all the great attributes of the man. I have wonderful memories of the times we were together….we could laugh at the same things and share a common empathy for others. While I was mayor of Markham he was one of the special people I could turn to and trust his judgement. The world is a better place because of Joe Mavrinac. I will always remember him. Don Cousens, former Mayor of Markham

Don Cousens, March 1, 2021

Everyone with Kirkland Lake roots knows the great contribution that Joe Mavrinac made to Our Town and to Northern Ontario over many, many years. During the 10 years or so that Joe lived in the Toronto area to be close to his family, he was a fixture at our monthly XKL Group Luncheons. He was our elder statesman, always smiling, always positive, as sharp as a tack at age 90 and so proud of his heritage and his Northern Roots. It was a privilege for all of our members to get to know him well and to enjoy his company over many years. He was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed. We as a Group extend our sincere sympathy to Diane and Mary Ann and their families and we are pleased to be making a contribution to the Kirkland Lake Hospital Foundation in Joe’s memory. Wayne MacAlpine on behalf of the XKL Luncheon Group …..Toronto

Wayne MacAlpine, March 1, 2021

Sincere condolences to the Mavrinac family. Mike Harris Ontario Premier (1995-2002)

Michael D. Harris, March 1, 2021

Diane, Mary-Ann and family We are so sorry to hear of Joe’s death. He was a remarkable man and a proud KLer and his legacy will be long remembered. I was fortunate to see him this summer in TPR and he was so happy to be home ! A loss to all.

Brian and Gale Hamilton, March 1, 2021

Our sincere condolences to Diane and Jeff, Mary-Ann and Peter for the loss of your great father/ father in-law. Uncle Joe was a true gentlemen, leader, family man and friend. He was equally comfortable with people from all walks of life and treated all with the utmost of respect. We have many fond memories growing up with the Mavrinac family in KL. He and my father were best friends and his friendship was extended to all of our family as we progressed through life. Always a source of inspiration for hard work, integrity and enjoying the life it brought. We will miss him dearly and will cherish the memories as we toast our sunsets on Kenogami Lake. Peter Marinigh/Darlene Grossinger

Peter Marinigh/Darlene Grossinger, March 1, 2021

Our sympathies to the Mavrinac family. Joe was a tireless promoter of Kirkland Lake, making our town a better place to live.

Bill & Jo-Ann Glover and family, March 1, 2021

I was saddened by the news of Joe’s passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. ( A former neighbour) Richard Alexander.

Richard Alexander, March 1, 2021

Diane and Maryanne, I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was always larger than life and KL will forever owe him a debt of gratitude for his tireless community service. Tamara

Tamara Adams, March 1, 2021

our condolences to the family. joe was a true gentleman to his town ,province and country. his legacy will live on forever. always with a smile. god bless all.

pat and ed skalecki, March 1, 2021

Our Sincere condolences to Diane, Mary Ann and their families for your great loss. Joe was a wonderful gentleman that was so full of knowledge, and who still loved to keep on top of things going on in his Kirkland Lake. He will be so missed. RIP Joe Darleen Hoehle and Eric Whelan

Darleen HOEHLE , March 1, 2021

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Hoping your wonderful memories bring you comfort. Sincerely Todd and Stella Morgan

Stella Morgan, March 1, 2021

I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was a wonderful person and I loved him dearly.

Nancy Milne, March 1, 2021

Our thoughts are with Diane @ Maryann @ all of the Mavrinac family, so sorry for your loss.

jackie @ steve jeffery, March 1, 2021

It was uplifting to work with such an enthusiastic promoter of Northern Ontario.

Emile Touchette, March 1, 2021

Dear Diane, Marianne and family. Please accept our sincere condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Rick, Mary and family Mavrinac

Rick & Mary Mavrinac, March 1, 2021

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Des and Doreen Sasseville, March 1, 2021

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved father and grandfather to Sara Ann and Katherine. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Love, Ken, Susan, Amanda, Lindsay and Rochelle

Susan and Ken Melvin, March 1, 2021

Sincere condolences from our family. Joe was such a good friend to my father Lionel Sherratt and our entire family. He was such a huge support when our father passed away. A wonderful caring man who gave so much to the town, and the people of Kirkland Lake.

Wendy Sherratt Hogan and Family, March 1, 2021

Yes,he was really one of a kind!So smart,a go getter,energetic,and the best Mayor we ever had!We enjoyed our outings with him,and Nevio was always happy to be there for him…HE SURE WILL BE MISSED,also our sympathies to his precious daughters and families….JOSY AND NEVIO VISKOVICH…2

Josy and Nevio viskovich, March 1, 2021

Bill and I wish to express our sincere condolences to your family. We truly enjoyed taking Joe to mass on Sundays last year, up until the cold winter months when he enjoyed his mass on Wednesday at TPR. He was a remarkable man with so many interesting stories to tell.

Louise and Bill McCurdy, March 1, 2021

Our sincere condolences to the Mavrinac family. Joe was a tireless worker and leader for the betterment of Kirkland Lake. There are too many accomplishments to list here, but he always put Kirkland Lake at the forefront. I would also like to thank his family for allowing me to share time with Joe to give me advice and encouragement during the recent municipal election. He was an excellent mentor. Joe, thank you; you were a true gentleman whom I fully respected and admired. R.I.P my friend. Pat & Lorraine Kiely & Family

Pat Kiely, March 1, 2021

Fond And Cherished Memories Of a Wonderful Man Who fully Committed to his Community He was Just A Great Human Being !! Truly a Celebration Of His Life . Our Condolences to His Family. Love and Prayers .Doreen And Doug Hartley.

Doreen Hartley, March 1, 2021

Joe Mavrinac was an honorable man who contributed beyond measure to his community, the Province, and to our country. It was a pleasure and privilege to have known him>

George Robinson, March 1, 2021

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

Catherine(Connolly) Wendorf, March 1, 2021

To Marianne and the entire Mavrinac family my sincerest condolences.

John Czuba, March 1, 2021

So sorry to learn of Joe’s passing, He was a great person who served Kirkland Lake well. He leaves many fond memories, not only for his family but all of us who had the opportunity to know him. RIP Joe

Willie and Gloria Semple, March 1, 2021

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Joe Mavrinac at this very difficult time – He will be missed by everyone who knew him. May he Rest in Peace

Linda Belanger, March 1, 2021

I am so sorry for your great loss, he was a good man and respected man. My thoughts are with you and your family. I was his foot care nurse at TPR and we had some good laughs. I had the honour of giving him a shave last Monday.We spent some quality time that day. Take care. Jenifer Simpson.

Jenifer Simpson, March 1, 2021

Our sincere condolences. Joe: you did your time and your town proud.

Lynda, Bill & Drew Enouy, March 1, 2021