Obituary of Darina Zugaj (nee Didekova)

With broken hearts, the family of Darina Zugaj announce her passing on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at the age of 73. Beloved wife of Mato Zugaj for 52 years. Loving mother of Diana and Ann-Marie (Ryan). Cherished grandmother of Isaac (Srce bakino) and Xavier (Andělíček bakin). Dear sister of the late Ljubo Didek in Slovakia. Beloved aunt to Ilija (Shelley) of Windsor; Zuzka, Marienka, and Ljubo of Slovakia; and numerous nieces and nephews in Croatia. Dear sister-in-law to Maria Zugaj of Windsor; Marienka Didekova of Slovakia; and numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law in Croatia. Darina is predeceased by her parents Amalia Didekova and John Didek of Slovakia. She emigrated from Slovakia, with a brief residence in Switzerland, in May of 1970. Darina retired from Hiram Walker and Sons on February 1st, 2014 after 25 years of service. Darina was an avid baker and loved to cook. She enjoyed tending to her plants and flowers in her lovely garden. She also enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Darina always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. The family wishes to thank her oncologist Dr. Indermohan Sandhu and Dr. Albert Schumacher for the exceptional care that she received. The family also wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of Brightshores Cancer Center, Unit 6-1 staff at Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital, and the Brightshores palliative care team. Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home - Central Chapel (1700 Tecumseh Rd. E) 519-253-7234 on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 from 3-5pm and 6-8pm. Parish Prayers at 7pm. Funeral Service on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 9:15 from the funeral home then to St. Francis of Assisi Church (1701 Turner Rd.) for Funeral Mass at 10am. Interment to follow at Windsor Memorial Gardens (1100 Division Rd.) Donations in Darina’s memory can be made to Brightshores Cancer Center in Owen Sound, ON and St. Francis of Assisi Croatian Church in Windsor, ON.