Published in The Lake Report, May 14, 2026, page 26.
Peacefully surrounded by his loving family, Milan Kauzlaric was called into the arms of God at the Marotta Family Hospital on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the age of 83. Milan began his journey in Canada in 1969 and met the love of his life, Jelica (née Holjak). Together, they shared 54 beautiful years of marriage built on devotion and faith. Milan was predeceased by his parents Ferdo and Adela Kauzlaric, his brother Vladimir (Ruzica) of Croatia. Milan was a devoted father to Fred (Elia) and Michael (Lisa), and a cherished “Dada” to Tavio, Dilan, Emilio, and Giacomo. He was a dear brother-in-law to Steve and Emma Holjak, and Barry and Ann Andersen. Milan’s presence will be deeply missed by his many relatives and friends across Canada, the United States, and Croatia, especially his nephew Darko (Nena), nieces Tania (Marco), Erika (Jay) and their families.
A man of the land, Milan found great fulfilment working on his family farm in Virgil. He dedicated his life to passing down his agricultural expertise and his rich Croatian heritage to his sons and grandsons. Above all else, nothing brought him greater joy than the simple happiness of spending time with his family and vacationing with the love of his life, Jelica.
Visitation will be held at Morgan Funeral Home (415 Regent St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON) on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Vigil prayers will be held at 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be offered at St. Vincent de Paul Church (73 Picton St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON) on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Niagara Lakeshore Cemetery (483 Lakeshore Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON).
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Milan may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Marotta Family Hospital. Special thank-you to Dr. Timothy Bastedo, and the many doctors and nurses on the fourth floor and ICU of Marotta Family Hospital for their care and expertise. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morganfuneral.com.
