We Remember
PAVELICH, Steve Joseph
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Steve cast his last net on April 23, 2018 at the age of 95. After a brief stay in Kelowna General Hospital he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. All those that have met him will attest that the world lost one of its most colourful characters on this day.
Steve was born in Lovinac, Croatia to Martin and Maria Pavelich and he enjoyed his rambunctious childhood days with his younger brother John. When he was 12 years old, the family immigrated to Canada, briefly settling in Alberta before making Richmond, BC their family home. Another brother and sister were born, rounding out the family.
Through his capacity for hard work and eye for opportunity, Steve was successful in a variety of business ventures and enjoyed dealing in real estate. As well, he was a skilled carpenter applying his trade to building houses. Steve eventually built the first of a succession of boats and reinvented himself as a commercial fisherman. He lived life on his own terms and didn’t let any obstacles get in the way.
In 1957, Steve journeyed back to Croatia and met and married the love of his life. He brought the beautiful Nada back to Richmond where they set about starting their family. When retirement beckoned, Steve and Nada moved to Kelowna where their door was always open to family and friends. Never one to sit idle, Steve reconnected with his love of nature and music, becoming a master gardener and a master musician in the process.
Steve was a family man at heart and he leaves behind Nada, his loving wife of 60 years, daughter, Marian Lane (Stephen), son, Steven (Chantel), grandchildren Stephanie (Derek), Michelle (Shane), Jamus, Cole, and Mila and great-grandchildren, Carter, Lily, Madden, and Ivy. He is survived by his sister, Anne, but predeceased by his two brothers John and Mike.
Whether he was navigating his prized gill-netter, “My Souvenir”, growing the biggest tomato, or making the best wine, Steve did it all with flair and “better than everyone else.” He had an opinion on just about anything from hockey to politics and was not the least bit shy about sharing any of them.
There will be a funeral service, Saturday April 28, 2018 at 10:00 am at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, followed by a 12:00 pm reception.
“May you rest in peace in your sheltered bay.”
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or to share a memory, please scroll down this page to the area called “share your condolences.”
Service
Saturday April 28, 2018 at 10:00 am
Location
Springfield Funeral Home
Oh Nada-I am so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing-I send a big hug to you! He was a special guy! I will always remember Steve!
We would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family, Nada. We know the days ahead will not be easy without Steve Sr., but God will give you all the strength to move forward, knowing he lived a very good life filled with the love of his family. In the whole scheme of things there is not much more we can ask for. Hugs to you all. Take care. xo
Draga Nada,
We are all getting old and closer to the time when we will leave this world. Still, it is hard when that time comes.
I met Steve only a few times in my life. But I feel a sense of loss because he is my first cousin and because he was a character that you don’t forget. Please accept Eugenia’s and my deepest sympathy.
I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Pavelich many times over the years through his son Steve. He was always so cheerful. I am so glad to have met him. I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you.
Dear Nada, We were very sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He was a man of many talents and said things the way they were. I will miss joining him in a glass of wine under one under one of his favourite trees.
All my thoughts,love,hugs and fond memories sent to all of you. ❤️❤️❤️
Dear Nada, Marian and Steven, dear all grand kids, dear all our family, we cannot say how much said we are in this moment, especially that we cannot be with you… please receive all our love, care and thoughts, and let our Stipe enjoy in Father’s kingdom. Love you and miss you all…. sincerely,
Barica, Goran, Taja, Luka & Lovre – Split, Croatia
Nada. I am so at a loss of words. Steve was a wonderful, warm, kind human being and I enjoyed the many chats we had. Sincerely. Johnny
Dear Nada, so sorry to hear that Steve passed away. I have many happy memories of Steve and I in our younger years, and of course in later years Ann and I enjoyed visiting you and Steve in Kelowna, and sharing a glass of homemade wine.