PODREBARAC, Rudolf

PODREBARAC, Rudolf - It is with profound sadness that the family announces the death of Rudy Podrebarac on Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at the age of 74. He was the beloved husband of Millie (Smukavich) for 50 years; proud father of Theresa, Kathryn and Anna, and much loved grandfather to Emma, Olivia and Sofia. He was the loving brother-in-law to Mary Zvonkovich and uncle to her son, Peter. Rudy was born in Croatia and immigrated to Canada in the late 1950s to pursue his dream of a better life. He began his career as a miner in Elliot Lake and then moved to Sudbury where he met his wife, Millie. Together, they purchased the Brockdan Hotel and ran it successfully for over 40 years. Rudy will be remembered for his endless supply of jokes, his mischievous charm and his passionate (albeit misguided) devotion to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Above all else, Rudy loved his ‘girls' and was fiercely proud of their accomplishments. We felt the same way about him. He will be dearly missed in so many ways. A Private Family Funeral Mass was held, and a celebration of Rudy's amazing life will take place at the Croatian Center, 571 Kathleen Street, Sudbury on March 17, 2012 at 1pm. As an expression of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to DODS & MCNAIR FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 21 First St. Orangeville, ON (519-941-1392). (Condolences may be offered to the family at www.dodsandmcnair.com)