Ruža Kranjac

Ruza Kranjac “Mama Kranjac” (nee Badurina) age 89 passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, in Toronto, surrounded by her loving family. Throughout her journey of 89 years, she touched many lives with her kindness, humor and an unwavering spirit of perseverance.

Ruza was born to parents Jelica and Josip Badurina on July 21, 1936, in the village of Gager on the island of Pag, Croatia. She grew up in a close-knit farming and fishing family, developing an early love of the Adriatic Sea and warm coastal life. Surviving the Second World War shaped her tenacity, independence, and deep appreciation for the preciousness of life – values she carried with her throughout her days.

In her teenage years, Ruza moved to Rab, where she mastered the art of intricate sewing and became a talented seamstress. Drawn to adventure and eagerness to explore new possibilities, she later moved to Zagreb to live with one of her sisters (Katica). There she enrolled in nursing school, graduating to become a pediatric nurse – a profession that perfectly matched her boundless love for babies and children.

During her years in Zagreb, Ruza embraced her independence. In the late 1950s she met her lifelong and best friend Mimi, and together with her sister Sylvia, were quite inseparable. Ruza was committed to her work, but she was equally devoted to joy – dancing late into the night, saying “yes” to every celebration, and finding fun wherever she went.

Ruza met her future husband, Tony Kranjac, through her brother-in-law. After a year of courtship, they married in a civil ceremony in Zagreb. Eager to begin a new chapter, Tony set sail for Canada first, eventually settling in Toronto. Ruza followed in 1960, and together they built a life rooted in hard work, community and faith. After her arrival, she and Tony were married again in the Catholic church -their shared faith becoming a lasting foundation for the family they would grow. In the 1960’s, they welcomed three daughters: Lillian, Helen and Sandy.

Ruza and Tony created a home surrounded by extended family and many fellow Croatian immigrants. Their lives were filled with gatherings, laughter and strong community ties. Ruza especially cherished family time and enjoyed many joyful moments with Angela (her sister) and her family and Rosanda (her niece) and her family and Geoff and Tom (Helen and Sandy’s spouses).

Once her daughters were young children, Ruza returned to work and found her calling in elder care. She dedicated over 35 years to serving residents in a nursing home, offering kindness, patience and compassion every single day. Her love of children was matched by her devotion to seniors, and she took great pride in making others feel cared for.

Ruza’s spirit was vibrant and unmistakable. She was compassionate, generous and understanding – qualities that drew both the young and old to her. She loved to stay busy, travel with Tony to places like Sauble Beach, Grand Bend and their beloved Jakisnica in Croatia. She didn’t do anything halfway and sitting still just wasn’t in her nature.

In her later years, as she faced numerous health challenges, Ruza met every obstacle with strength, resilience and her signature determination. Even when faced with difficulty, she held onto her humor, her silliness and her ability to laugh and connect with others.

Ruza was truly one of a kind – spirited, loving, feisty and unforgettable. She will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know her.

Ruza was proceeded in death by her husband Ante (Tony) Kranjac of 55 years. Ruza is survived by her three daughters Lilian, Helen and Sandy, her devoted son-in-laws Geoff and Tom. Ruza was a wonderful aunt to Rosanda, Mirko, Robbie, Emilijan, Suzanne, Robert, Walter and a caring sister of Angela Pozaic.

Faith in God was a quiet and steady part of Ruza’s life. Donations may be made to two parishes: Our Lady Queen of Croatia and Blessed Trinity.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported Ruza during her last days, especially the exceptional staff at North York General who gave her the best hope and care.


FOTO: Private