Zoran Čanji
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
~ Mary Elizabeth Frye
Obituary
Zoran, a cherished brother, uncle, husband, father and grandfather, passed away in Hospice with his family by his side October 8th 2025 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. His life was defined by his unwavering commitment to his wife, Helena and his family, with his greatest joy found in the company of his adult children, Phil (Nubia), Pavle (Gale), and Andrea (Chris) and chosen son Patrick. Always there when needed, Zoran prioritized his family above all else, offering support and commitment in every situation. His grandchildren, Jude, Isabella, Ezra, Lucas, Isaac, Miles, and Lennox, are the light of his life, bringing him endless happiness with their presence. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved his radiance and will be forever missed by his brother Mihajlo Čanji.
Zoran’s life was a testament to devotion and resilience. He surrounded himself with a close-knit circle of family and friends, many of whom viewed him as a father figure. His unique spirit and kindness touched the lives of all who knew him. As we mourn his passing, we find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy endures through his beloved grandchildren and the countless lives he enriched with his generosity and warmth. Zoran will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
Oče naš ~ Our Father
Oče naš, koji si na nebesima, da se sveti ime tvoje. Da dođe carstvo tvoje. Da bude volja tvoja i na zemlji kao na nebu. Hjeb naš potrebni daj nam danas. I oprosti nam dugove naše kao i mi što opraštamo dužnicima svojijem. I ne navedi nas u napast, no izbavi nas oda zla. [Jer je tvoje carstvo I sila I slava u vijek] Amen.
Timeline
1950
September 23rd
Born
Kovin, Serbia
1968
Military
Serbia
1970
Immigrated to Canada
Moved to join his Auntie (Nadezda (Nada) Dabić) and Uncle (Gliša Dabić) and worked as a carpenter
Calgary, Alberta
1976
October 23rd
Married Helena
Calgary
1977
June 20th
Became a Father
Philip Čanji was born, followed by Pavle (1979) and Andrea (1983)
Calgary
2007
March 9th
Became a Deda
Welcomed his first Grandson, Jude, followed by Isabella (2008), Ezra (2009), Lucas (2011), Isaac (2011), Miles (2015), and Lennox (2017)
Calgary
2025
October 8th
Went to Heaven
Passed in the beautiful arms of his daughter, Andrea
Calgary
Photos
Memory wall
Post your condolences or share your Memories.
October 22, 2025
There are so many good things to say about Zoran. From a young age I was able to witness his tireless work ethic and his devotion to his family and the things he was passionate about. He always greeted me with a huge smile and some sort of a joke that most of the time made no sense but produced big laughs.
Some of the memories that stand out most for me growing up are Zoran in the background either seasoning or cooking some sort of meat, making wine in his white t-shirt and underwear late at night or tinkering around in the garage with small engine parts. I will always remember the day I came to the house and Zoran was so excited to show me what he had done. All his tinkering over the years finally came to fruition. He had managed to mount a small engine to the back of his mountain bike and proceeded to drive up the Blvd at 50km/hr with his hook for a hand and an old welders cap for a helmet.
He was definitely a legend and someone to look up to. His laughter and boisterous presence will be sadly missed.
May you rest in peace Zoro!
Some of the memories that stand out most for me growing up are Zoran in the background either seasoning or cooking some sort of meat, making wine in his white t-shirt and underwear late at night or tinkering around in the garage with small engine parts. I will always remember the day I came to the house and Zoran was so excited to show me what he had done. All his tinkering over the years finally came to fruition. He had managed to mount a small engine to the back of his mountain bike and proceeded to drive up the Blvd at 50km/hr with his hook for a hand and an old welders cap for a helmet.
He was definitely a legend and someone to look up to. His laughter and boisterous presence will be sadly missed.
May you rest in peace Zoro!
October 22, 2025
Our hearts are with you. We will always remember Zoran’s big, joyful laugh and the warmth he brought to every room. His kindness, humour, and genuine care for others left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
With love and deepest sympathy,
The Sieben Family
With love and deepest sympathy,
The Sieben Family
October 21, 2025
Deda Zoki is my Deda’s brother. I will never forget when we were all in Canada, laughing and having a great time every day. I also will remember how Deda Mihajlo and Deda Zoki talked to each other almost every day on the phone, I would always see them on video calls whenever I was at my grandparents’ house. Sending love and hugs to the rest of the Canji family during this difficult time.
October 20, 2025
We have known the Canji family since the 1980’s when our daughter and the two Canji boys were attending Organ lessons at the same school. We had enjoyable times attending concerts and competitions and related travels for these events, as well as family parties.
We admired how life for Zoran was 10% what happened to his hand and 90% how he dealt with this tragedy, always smiling and hearty laughter full of joy and happiness.
We were blessed to visit them at their home in early February 2025 and enjoyed dinner of Zoran’s delicious Serbian soup.
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your beloved husband, father, and grandfather (Deda).
We admired how life for Zoran was 10% what happened to his hand and 90% how he dealt with this tragedy, always smiling and hearty laughter full of joy and happiness.
We were blessed to visit them at their home in early February 2025 and enjoyed dinner of Zoran’s delicious Serbian soup.
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your beloved husband, father, and grandfather (Deda).
October 20, 2025
I met Zoran so many years ago and so many memories come to my mind. Zoran had a good heart and he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
My deepest thoughts are with the family in this sad time. Please accept my sincere condolences, your dad will remain in our hearts and memories for ever.🙏🫶🏻
My deepest thoughts are with the family in this sad time. Please accept my sincere condolences, your dad will remain in our hearts and memories for ever.🙏🫶🏻
October 20, 2025
We were lucky to know Zoran over the years, he was a man who lit up every room — not just with his great laugh, but with the warmth and humor he shared so generously. He was a tireless worker, a jokester at heart, and was deeply devoted to Helena and his family.
It’s evident that his strong family values were passed on to his children and grandchildren, along with his gift of laughter and love. His legacy will live on in the stories that continue to be told with a smile.
Rest in peace, Zoran. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
It’s evident that his strong family values were passed on to his children and grandchildren, along with his gift of laughter and love. His legacy will live on in the stories that continue to be told with a smile.
Rest in peace, Zoran. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
October 19, 2025
When someone passes you search for words that describe what that person was to you. Often you come to one word. For me that word for Zoran is devotion. He was devoted to his wife, to his kids, to his grandkids, to his heritage and to Canada. Zoran’s devotion was not just a word though - he always showed his devotion in actions, if you needed him he would be there no problem. Always with that big smile when he saw the people he was there for (mostly his grandkids) - and they loved him for it. As always, when you give something special freely it comes back to you in much greater quantities. That is the devotion we all feel for his memory now. We will miss you Zoran.
I hope there are sausage trees in heaven and a drink of Slivovica waiting for you.
I hope there are sausage trees in heaven and a drink of Slivovica waiting for you.
October 18, 2025
It has been an honour to know Zoran, a man whose heart was anchored in his family. It was always touching to see the way he cherished Helena, and how his eyes would shine with love for his children and grandchildren. His devotion was steady, his laughter infectious, and he made the best Christmas cookies. His was a gentle light that will never fade. Thank you Zoran, for the respect and kindness you showed my daughter — and for the warmth you brought to all who knew you. I will miss your “welcome home” when I next visit Calgary.
October 16, 2025
I had the privilege of helping Zoran with his illness. He was a kind man that would throw in a little joke in just to make me smile. He loved his family very much. Telling me about them. I witnessed this many times when any one of his children or family members were around. Helena was the love of his life. He was always working hard to care for her, even when he was unwell. It was hard not to admire his devotion.
A little story about Zoran
For a couple of weeks we talked about his electric bike. My husband’s birthday was coming up and I told him I was thinking of giving my husband an e-bike for his birthday (because of Zoran’s enthusiasm). Of course being Zoran the next day he had research the best bike for my husband. Opening his ipad and telling which is better for what. After my husband’s birthday he requested pictures of my husband riding his bike. I took a video instead which brought a big grin to Zoran’s face.
I truly will miss Zoran.
A little story about Zoran
For a couple of weeks we talked about his electric bike. My husband’s birthday was coming up and I told him I was thinking of giving my husband an e-bike for his birthday (because of Zoran’s enthusiasm). Of course being Zoran the next day he had research the best bike for my husband. Opening his ipad and telling which is better for what. After my husband’s birthday he requested pictures of my husband riding his bike. I took a video instead which brought a big grin to Zoran’s face.
I truly will miss Zoran.
October 10, 2025
I only recently met Zoran. I spent a weekend at their trailer near Invermere. Even though he was sick, he welcomed me to his home-away-from-home and treated me like family. When I had to leave he came and saw me out. I remember he was smiling and happy. This is how I remember him. Through this very difficult time, he still found the strength to show kindness to me. This says a lot about a person.
I feel very fortunate that I got to meet him and get to know him a little. Rest in peace Mr. Canji.
I feel very fortunate that I got to meet him and get to know him a little. Rest in peace Mr. Canji.
October 9, 2025
Zoran's passing pains us, but his life was a celebration of friendship, joy, and love.
Today we don't say goodbye, but rather see you later, dear friend.
Your light will continue to shine in all of us who loved you, and the seed you planted will continue to grow in the magnificent family that you and your "Chiquita" formed.
Today we don't say goodbye, but rather see you later, dear friend.
Your light will continue to shine in all of us who loved you, and the seed you planted will continue to grow in the magnificent family that you and your "Chiquita" formed.
October 9, 2025
Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with the Čanji Diaz family. Great loss indeed. Wishing Zoran’s memories will be like an elixir to a such painful reality.
October 9, 2025
Our beloved Deda lost his battle to cancer at 12:57am yesterday (Sept 23, 1950 - Oct 8, 2025). The void we feel right now and the ache in our hearts is beyond words. He was a warrior; he fought hard for six years. He is our hero and will be missed forever. His love for his family was unconditional. His legacy will live on in our hearts, in our family, especially his seven grandkids who all adored him. Rest easy dad; we love you forever.
October 8, 2025
Sending our prayers, hugs, condolences and love to the Canji family. We hope you can find comfort in the shared moments you had with Zoran. What an amazing person he was. We’ll always remember his smiling face, boisterous laugh, and the love he had for all his friends and family.
October 8, 2025
Sincerest condolences for your immense loss. He was such a kind, generous spark of a man. I will always fondly remember my time spent with him and your family over the years. I could always feel the deep love he held for all of you.
October 8, 2025
Sending you all our love and condolences at this difficult time. May your memories carry you through on your journey to finding peace.
October 8, 2025
I met this wonderful soul two summers ago. He was funny and spicey. Easy to love and enjoy, and I will miss his presence in the backyard at the smoker. And that moustache he used to sport! So gangsta!! I So enjoyed the slide show of him and his beautiful legacy. His FAMILY. Such beautiful souls themselves is a true reflection of what a beautiful man he was❤️You will be missed❤️
October 8, 2025
We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of such a wonderful man, father & grandfather. We are pleased to be able to celebrate his legacy with the picnic table and treasure the times we were fortunate to enjoy his company at Canji family gatherings. Big hugs to everyone.
October 8, 2025
May loving memories of a, very, special person, bring you peace and strength.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
October 8, 2025
The Best.
October 8, 2025
Zoran was one of the best humans I know. I will miss him forever, but am honoured to carry the Čanji name. Thank you for the beautiful legacy you have given us all. Love you forever.
Family tree
Other family members
Nubia Čanji
Daughter in law
Gale Čanji
Daughter in law
Chris Dewling
Son in Law
Patrick Colucci
Chosen Son
Šandor Čanji
Sofija Čanji
Rista Todorovic
Danica Todorovic (Reiver)
Lazar Čanji
Vera Čanji (Todorovic)
Helena Diaz
Mihajlo Čanji
Nenad Čanji
Pavle Alexander Čanji
Children
Jude Canji
Ezra Canji
Carlo Philip Čanji
Children
Isabella Canji
Lucas Canji
Paulina Andrea Čanji
Children
Isaac Dewling
MIles Dewling
Lennox Dewling
Mihajlo Čanji
Nenad Čanji
Helena Diaz
Pavle Alexander Čanji
Jude Canji
Ezra Canji
Carlo Philip Čanji
Isabella Canji
Lucas Canji
Paulina Andrea Čanji
Isaac Dewling
MIles Dewling
Lennox Dewling
Zoran Čanji
Favorites
Zoran's Quotes and Saying's
- Who put that there?
- Every how come has a because.
- Don't be a hero, the hero's are dying.
- You’re blushing my balls.
- You’re eating gummies for dummies
- Not your Calgary Flames, they’re your Calgary Candles
- Always said to his grandkids, “you’re cruising for a bruising"
- You look like shit in the rain.
- It’s not what you want it’s what you get.
- What’s its name?
- They’re a bunch of crooks.
- Every how come has a because.
- Don't be a hero, the hero's are dying.
- You’re blushing my balls.
- You’re eating gummies for dummies
- Not your Calgary Flames, they’re your Calgary Candles
- Always said to his grandkids, “you’re cruising for a bruising"
- You look like shit in the rain.
- It’s not what you want it’s what you get.
- What’s its name?
- They’re a bunch of crooks.
Zoran's drinks for celebration
- Scotch and 7-up
- Slivovica
- Slivovica
Zoran's favorite Foods?
- Hungarian Sausage
- Smoked meat
- Smoked paprika
- Smoked meat
- Smoked paprika
Zoran's favorite Music ?
- He had a love for Harry Belafonte
Service
Please join us to pay a last tribute.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Celebration of Life - Zoran Canji
Fish Creek Chapel - McInnis & Holloway
14441 Bannister Rd SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3
14441 Bannister Rd SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3
October, 21st 2025 @2:30pm
Virtual event
https://my.forever.link/register/mcinnis-holloway/zoran-canji
Please pre register!
Only If you need the option for Closed Caption in a language of choice please use this Zoom link:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81957627993?pwd=A358eUrc2LitCSY1ul3dWLynVwRxFB.1
Meeting ID: 819 5762 7993
Passcode: 738463
Please pre register!
Only If you need the option for Closed Caption in a language of choice please use this Zoom link:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81957627993?pwd=A358eUrc2LitCSY1ul3dWLynVwRxFB.1
Meeting ID: 819 5762 7993
Passcode: 738463
RSVP
Memorial
We’re planning a special memorial picnic table in honour of our dear “Deda” Zoran. We invite you to be part of this meaningful tribute. Your donation will create a cherished memory that family and friends can gather around for years to come. We’re thinking of setting up the picnic table in one of the beautiful parks in Calgary or nearby. It’ll be a place where we can create unforgettable memories, share stories, and continue to strengthen our bonds as a family and friends. Instead of flowers or gifts, we’d be incredibly grateful if you could make a donation via etransfer to thecanjis@gmail.com. Your contribution will help us make Zoran’s legacy live on. We truly appreciate your thoughtfulness and support. Let’s continue to cherish the special memories that Zoran created for us all. www.parksfdn.com/bench-and-table-dedication#Tax
Listen the the playlist we made to remember and celebrate Zoran
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1H9U3YM9PyBh9RADNhnGvU?si=a43d8658051f4429
Listen the the playlist we made to remember and celebrate Zoran
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1H9U3YM9PyBh9RADNhnGvU?si=a43d8658051f4429
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