It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Florian Rijavec in Calgary following a devastating stroke while on holiday in Waterton National Park.
He leaves to mourn his spouse, Yvonne–semicolon– son, Christian Gazelle (Vivianne)–semicolon– daughters, Patricia (Denis) and Mireille (Mark)–semicolon– six grandchildren, Danielle (Rémi), Marc, Mikaël, Marie-Hélène, Jasmine and Olivia–semicolon– and four great grandchildren, Christian, Riley, Keane and Malik (born July 2nd, 2012). Florian also leaves his three brothers who came with him to Canada, Boris (Irma), Oton (Isidra) and Martin (Annie)–semicolon– his sister, Ana (Bogo) in Slovenia–semicolon– numerous nieces and nephews in Canada–semicolon– and many dearly loved relatives in Slovenia. He will also be missed by the children at the Liboria Espinosa Orphanage in Manzanillo, Mexico–semicolon– and by his beloved horse, Louis. Florian was predeceased by two brothers, Ivan and Julij–semicolon– and his loving parents, Jozef and Helena (Cej).
Florian was a mighty oak tree that spread its branches across the country and around the world, whose fruits nourished his dear family and many friends. Florian “did it my way”, a theme song in his life, a life he shared with his wife and soul mate of 53 years, Yvonne. A successful and esteemed entrepreneur of 48 years, Florian’s integrity, strength and many talents were a great inspiration to his family and employees. This is a painful time – the earth shuddered when this great tree fell. We take comfort in the many words of love and respect so many have shared with us and trust that precious memories of him will prevail.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Florian may be made to the Little Bits Riding Program at the Whitemud Equine Centre (Box 29016 Lendrum P.O., Edmonton, AB, T6H 5Z6) or to the Liboria Espinosa Orphanage in Manzanillo, Mexico (donation envelopes will be available at the service).
Sylviane Wallace says
Au nom de la famille Wallace et mes parents, Joseph et Marie-Thérèse Legros, toutes nos pensées sont vers toi, Yvonne, tes enfants & petits-enfants.
Depuis mon arrivée en Alberta, aux débuts des années 90, j\’ai toujours apprécié l\’amitié que nous avons tissée et que je tiens garder, plus particulièrement dans des moments aussi difficiles.
William et Corinne Zadnik says
Chère Yvonne,
Christian , Patricia, et Mireille
Nous vous présentons nos plus sincères condoléances et partageons malgré la distance votre grande peine. Les mots nous ont manqué pendant plusieurs jours à l’annonce de cette triste nouvelle. Florian restera dans nos mémoires, et dans nos cœurs comme un grand monsieur et non uniquement par la taille car sa générosité était plus grande encore. Il aimait faire partager aux personnes qui l’entouraient et sa générosité rayonnait. Son charisme naturel nous inspirait tous et son pragmatisme et humour rendaient toujours les choses plus faciles.
Il restera aussi pour nous le « grand monsieur « du pavillon français de Heritage à qui a consacré tant de talent et d’heure.
Un grand monsieur, un grand ami.
Nous vous embrassons très fort
William et Corinne
Iva Sarjas Albin Terlikar says
If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I\’d walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again.
Our condolences to Rjavec family.
Iva Sarjas & Albin Terlikar
Monique Anderson (Lefebvre) says
Mes sincères condescende, mes pensées sont avec vous a ce temps votre vie.
Gérard Bissonnette says
Mes sincères condoléances Patricia, ainsi qu\’à toute ta famille. Mes prières vous accompagnent.
Vera St. Jean (Ulcar) says
Mrs. Rijavec and family,
I remember Gospod Florian as a man of class and dignity, towards all ages.
It was always a pleasure to say hello to you both.
He worked hard and did well with his painting business. You both raised a wonderful family, which you should be proud of.
He has left a legacy of love and kindness to you all, to your friends, the people and animals that he loved. He made a difference in the world.
His spirit will always be with you.
Our deepest condolences: Vera (Ulcar) and Al St. Jean, Helena Ulcar, Janez Ulcar (Shirene, Terrell, Larissa, Dorlena)