06/07/2026
It is with profound sadness that the Nikolić family announces the passing of Božidar “Bob” Nikolić on June 3th, 2026, in Sudbury, Ontario, at the age of 86.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Svetlana; his daughter Christina Ierullo (Matthew) and their children Sofia and Ella; and his son Boban Nikolic (Jovana) and their daughter Danika. Bob was predeceased by his parents Budimir and Kristina Nikolić; his sister Djurica Glen; and his brother-in-laws Dragan Dinić (Angela) and Jovan Bogdanovich. He is also remembered by his nieces and nephews Lidija Bogdanovich; Boban Bogdanovich (predeceased) and his daughter Emilia; Nikola Dinić (Lisa); Daniela Manchulenko (Adrian) and their children Stefon and Alyza; Katerina Dinic (Devon Sauve). Bob is also lovingly remembered by his extended family in Serbia.
Bob was born on January 8th, 1940, in Dolac, Serbia. He was raised by his mother, aunts, and uncles in a close family environment that shaped his early character and resilience. In 1962, he escaped his homeland to reunite with his parents and to search for better opportunity. He immigrated to Canada and lived in several communities across Southern Ontario, before ultimately settling in Sudbury, where he built his home, his career, and his everlasting legacy.
On February 17, 1973, Bob married the love of his life, Svetlana (née Dinić), in Sudbury. Together they built a strong and devoted family, remaining united through decades of hard work, perseverance, and shared purpose.
Bob was a developer, entrepreneur, and builder whose vision and determination helped shape the Sudbury landscape. From the beginning of his career, work was not simply what he did—it was who he was. He was defined by discipline, dedication, relentless drive, and a commitment to doing things properly, with efficiency, and purpose. He was a proud contributor to the renovation of the Serbian Club, and played a central role in supporting Sts. Peter and Paul Serbian Orthodox Church, where he proudly served as President.
Both in and outside of his professional life, Bob was the life of the party—charismatic, generous, and full of energy. He loved to gather with family and friends, and fill every room with laughter and conversation.
Above all, Bob was devoted to his family. While his work defined much of his life, his deepest pride and greatest joy was his role as husband, father, and grandfather.
His legacy lives on in the family he built, the community he strengthened, and the countless lives he influenced through a lifetime of vision, determination, and hard work. His perseverance will forever be in our hearts.
Vječnaja pamjat. Memory eternal.
The family extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Mirka, Dr. Pereira, Dr, McIsaac, Dr. Jekic, and the nursing teams for their compassionate care and support.
Resting at the Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home, 233 Larch St., Sudbury. Friends may call from 4:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday June 12th, 2026, with prayers at 7:00pm. Funeral service in St. Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church, 515 Antwerp St., Sudbury, on Saturday June 13th, 2026, at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church
