ALOJZ STRAGA, beloved husband of Ivka Straga, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Monday, December 13, 2021 at the age of 91 years.

Alojz was born in Mali Banovac, Croatia, to Marija and Antoni Straga.  He started to learn the bricklayer trade in Croatia where he worked alongside his grandfather. In 1952, he met his best friend and soulmate Ivka, they were fortunate enough to have spent more than 69 years together. They got married April 22, 1952. Three years later, they tried to immigrate to Canada, but due to unrest were unable to. Instead, they left for Austria. Two years later, they were able to immigrate to Canada and settled in Iron Springs, with Ivka's aunt and uncle Hormoth, on the farm, before moving to Lethbridge three years later.                                                                           

Alojz was overjoyed and so proud to welcome their first daughter Linda in 1965, and Terry in 1967. His number one priority was his family. He loved playing with his girls, watching them grow, and taking yearly family vacations to BC. In later years he enjoyed time playing with his grandchildren, and most recently spending time with his great grandchildren.      

Alojz was a skilled bricklayer, proudly pointing out the numerous buildings in the city he worked on, as well as all across Alberta. He would fix anything and was called upon many times by his family for repairs, which he gladly obliged. Even as his health slowed him down, he could be found on a ladder or roof at the age of 90 years old.

Alojz had a quiet dry humor although often silent, when he did speak, he was always good for a laugh.

Alojz is survived by his wife Ivka, daughter Linda (Bill) Bennett, grandchildren Christina Bennett, Jordan Bennett (Tayler) and great-grandchildren Addison, Kinnley and Maddon. He is also survived by three brothers - Vlado, Frank and John and families. His sister Regina in Austria, Ruzina in Croatia and their families. He was predeceased by his daughter Terry Tschernetzki in 1992, his brothers Pero and Carlo, his sisters Anna, Theresa and Mira.

The family would like to send a sincere thanks to Dr. Amatto and the staff at Campbell Clinic West for their care over the years. A special thank you to Rick Siemens at London Drugs Pharmacy for your kindness and care and Dr. Plotnyk and the staff on 4A for your compassionate care while Alojz was a patient there.

A Prayer Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 - 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, December 17, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 355 Columbia Blvd. West, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 1:00 P.M. with Father William Monis celebrating. Due to Covid-19, attendance will be limited for both the Prayer Service and Funeral Mass. Kindly RSVP your attendance to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@cornerstonefh.ca

Following the Funeral Mass, Alojz will be laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery.

Please join the family at the luncheon following the Interment at the NORD-BRIDGE SENIORS CENTRE, 1904 - 14 Avenue North, Lethbridge, AB at 2:30 P.M. This invitation is extended to those unable to attend the services as well as those who were able to. Please be advised that the Restrictions Exception Program will be in effect, requiring proof of vaccination and picture ID or a negative Rapid COVID test within 72 hours.

If you would like to contribute to Alojz memory in some way, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.