Obituary of Paul Govic

Paul Govic, at age 85, of Saint John, N.B. passed away on Saturday, April 25th, 2020 surrounded by his loving wife & daughter. Paul was an extraordinary man, husband and father. He was born on the island of Krapanj, Croatia (Yugoslavia ) on June 24th 1934. On December 24th, 1959, Paul after spending quite a few years in Italian refugee camps arrived with his wife, Anita & daughter, Gordana to Saint John, N.B., with one blue trunk as luggage containing some clothing & several mementos. In 1961, his son, Gianni was born and then his son, George in 1964. With a growing family, Paul went to work for Rocca's Tile & Terrazo Co., after having worked at the Dry Dock & earlier at Indian Town. He went on to start his own ceramic tile business and his work can be found throughout the city and province. His work ethics were legendary as many that did work or train under him could attest. Paul was the quintessential immigrant story, adapting to a new country, he worked diligently all his life to provide for his family. His biggest pleasure in life was having friends, acquaintances, actually even strangers coming to his house so he could have Anita cook up meals while he plied everyone with home made wine or grappa. He often travelled back to Europe with his wife, Anita and enjoyed many summers back in Croatia during his retirement years. Paul had a huge heart, a giving heart but in the end that heart had worked so hard for so long it finally said, "Paul, it's time to let go and relax". Paul leaves his wife of 65 years, Anna (Anita) and his daughter, Gordana, he was predeceased by his sons Gianni (John) Govic and George Govic. Arrangements are under the care of Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Avenue, Saint John, NB E2M 2L3, 506-634-1701. Due to the present circumstances there will be no service, we will announce a celebration of his life at a later date. Donations in memory of Paul can be made to your favourite charity. Online condolences can be made at www.castlefh.com.