Our beautiful mother, Palina Ljucovic, passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by the family she loved. Predeceased by her husband Zef and their first daughter Svetlana, she is survived by her four children Elizabeth (David), Vera (Philip), Paul (Sheri-Lynne), and Sophie (Rory), and by nine cherished grandchildren: Lauren, Carolyn, Hannah, Trent, Lavinia, Brock, Lorelai, James, and Aidan.
Born on February 14, 1944 in Podgorica, Montenegro, Palina was the beloved daughter of Marija and Gjeka Djelosevic. She grew up adored by her parents and extended family, spending summers on the family farm picking blackberries, visiting the market, and caring for her beloved pets. A bright student, she excelled in school, earned top academic awards, and proudly became one of the early women in Podgorica to graduate from university.
Palina married Zef in 1962. After the loss of their first child, they welcomed two more children before immigrating to Canada in the late 1960s. There they grew their family to four children and settled in West Hamilton, then Dundas. She worked as a pastry chef at St. Joseph’s Convent, becoming known for her beautiful tiered cakes adorned with her signature floral designs.
Palina taught her children the value of hard work, education, and perseverance, encouraging them to dream beyond their circumstances. Her home was always open – filled with relatives, laughter, lively debates, and the comforting smell of her eastern European cooking. Her heart was generous, and her love and support unwavering.
Our mother was a woman of principle, warmth, and boundless love. She gave and never took. She will be deeply missed.
Rest in peace, sweet Mom. May Dad welcome you with open arms.
A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, August 28 at 10a.m. at St. Augustine’s Parish in Dundas (58 Sydenham St). Reception to follow at St. Augustine’s Parish Church Hall. Flowers may be sent to the Turner Family Funeral Home (53 Main St, Dundas, L9H 2P7).