It’s with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of George (Jure) Sutej on Sunday, February 14th, 2021 at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie, Ontario in his 80th year.
George will be fondly remembered by his three sons George Sutej Jr. (Raun), Peter Sutej (Janette) and Jim Sutej (Corinne). Proud grandfather of 8 grandchildren; Hailey Sutej, Stephanie Sutej, Olivia Sutej, Michael Jones, Jessica Jones, Nicole Sutej, Joshua Sutej, Aidan Sutej, and 3 great grandchildren; Tayvon Lawson, Hudson Sutej-Shand and Ayva Anderson. He will be dearly missed by his siblings Josef Sutej and Anna Kobetich.
George was predeceased by his wife of 55 years Slavka Sutej (nee Zupancic), siblings Janko Sutej, Mirko Sutej and his parents.
Born on March 30th, 1941 in Kovačji Grad, Slovenija to Ana Sutej (nee Verbanec) and Joze Sutej, George was the oldest of 5 siblings. He attended Vinica School and Church located in Bela Krajina until the age of 18 where, on March 5, 1960 in the early morning, he escaped to Austria at the beginning of the new communist regime lockdown. His passion for freedom would ultimately lead him to Canada by way of a small farm located in the Holland Marsh to start a new beginning. With no knowledge of the language or culture and looking to fulfill his dreams, would quickly find himself in Toronto where he met Slavka the love of his life and bride of 55 years, and accomplish his goal/craft of becoming a master plumber.
With a smile and laugh that would light up a whole room, George always made an everlasting impression on all to be remembered. His passion playing the accordion was an event to enjoy between family, friends and all.
We all take comfort in knowing that George and Slavka have been reunited, especially on Valentine’s Day, as their love for each other was heartwarming.
A small family service will be held in the spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, please make donations on behalf of George Sutej to Sick Kids Hospital. Online condolences and memories may be left at www.steckleygooderham.com