Video Biography

Cecile Aurini was born in Canada. Her parents immigrated to Canada before WW2 from a region in Slovenia called Prekmurje. They settled in a small six acre farm in Stoney Creek, Ontatio. Even thought she was born in Canada, she was always considered a foreigner. She received her degree from University of Toronto and became a teacher in the Toronto School Board. She started as a primary school teacher and eventually became a resource teacher for children with exceptionalities, including blind and visually impaired children. During COVID she spent a lot of time on genealogy and researching her family roots.

Frank Brence was born in Slovenia. His family fled to Austria in 1945 to escape communism. They eventually came to Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He was always involved with the Slovenian community and volunteered with many organizations, such as; Baraga Theatrical Group, Slovenia Parishes Credit Union (now Moya Financial), Dom Lipa, involvement with independence of Slovenia, VSKO and the Canadian Slovenian Historical Society. He is proud of his achievements especially his involvement with Planica Fishing and Hunting Club.

Peter Čekuta came to Canada with his parents after WWll. He grew up in Toronto and graduated from University of Toronto. He worked in many positions with the municipal, provincial and federal governments. He was involved in many Slovenian organizations like; SAVA, Board of Directors for Dom Lipa, member of the Canadian Slovenian Congress and did some lecturing at University of Ljubljana. Peter also talks about the commemorative cross his father designed for the fallen domobranci which is located at Martyr's Shrine in Midland.

Part 1. Stane was born in Slovenia and grew up during WWII while Slovenia was under fascist occupation. After WWII, Stan did not want to join the communist party so his options were limited. Because the boarders were close, he chose to escape to Italy. As a refugee, he applied to emigrate to Canada. Because of a lack of funds, he relied on IRO for help. He signed a contract and agreed to work anywhere in Canada, wherever he was needed. After crossing the Atlantic he arrived at Pier 21 and was sent to Edmonton to work off his contract. Part 2 deals with Stan’s many accomplishments in Canada.

Part 2. After completing his one year contract, Stan went to Toronto because he had heard that there was a Slovenian community being established. He started working in a cheese factory and was later hired by General Mills and as a fork lift driver. In 1955 he married Elsie and they settled in Etobicoke where they raised a family. Stan was very successful at General Mills and quickly worked his way up to management. He became very involved with the Slovenian community and joined various organizations including; the church committee, scouting, Slovenian Summer Camp, as well being very involved in Slovenia gaining independence.

Walter was born in Duparquet, Quebec and moved to St. Catherines when he was four years old. He started his first band in 1951 and recorded his first album in 1963. However, his first grammy was in 1992. Walter appeared on many radio and TV shows and also had his own TV show “Polka Party” on CHCH-TV Hamilton. He appeared in many concerts with various artist. However, he is very proud to have played the Grand Ole Opry. Walter has won many awards, but the one he cherishes the most is the “Order of Canada”.

Part 1. Jerry’s parents were born in Slovenia. His father came to Canada in 1926 with plans to earn some money and then return to Slovenia. However, after working in various mines in Kirkland Lake and Timmins, he went back home for a holiday and fell in love. He returned to Timmins and soon thereafter, his girlfriend Lucia followed and they married. Because of WWII, they remained there and started a family. Jerry was the oldest of four children and he helped his parents in their variety store while going to school in Timmins.

Part 2. After completing high school, Jerry went to North Bay Teachers College. Upon graduating, he accepted a teaching position in Sault Saint Marie. Four years later he was promoted principal at Holy Family High School. A few years later, he joined the staff at London Teachers College. He continued his studies and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western University and his Masters Degree at University of Toronto. Eventually he was appointed Director of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic School Board. He attributes much of his success to his wife Lilian and credits his parents for providing a strong religious background and solid Slovenian work ethic.