34 Years On, Son Recalls Singer Đurđica Barlović's Final Moments

Thirty-four years ago, Đurđica Barlović, a celebrated singer of the band Novi fosili, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 42. Her son, Hrvoje Barlović, a dentist, has shared poignant memories of his mother's final moments, offering a personal glimpse into the life of a beloved Yugoslavian music icon.

Barlović, born in Split in 1950, died of a heart attack on August 26, 1992, in Zadar. The fatal event occurred while she was vacationing with her family on the island of Pag, a place where they had spent many summers. Hrvoje, who was only 11 at the time, vividly remembers the day his mother, after water skiing, sat down on the beach feeling unwell. Her husband, Braco, a doctor, immediately recognized the severe symptoms.

Her husband rushed her to Pag via speedboat to receive urgent medical attention. From there, she was transported to a hospital in Zadar. Despite the relatively quick medical response, the heart attack was extremely severe. Although Đurđica remained conscious for a period, her condition could not be stabilized, and she passed away at the hospital.

Hrvoje admits that his family is not inclined towards grand commemorations of anniversaries. While he visits his mother's grave, he prefers to remember her on her birthday. He harbors a desire to dedicate a concert to her memory, not for commercial reasons, but as an emotional tribute to be shared with family and fans. However, his demanding schedule at his dental practice currently prevents him from organizing such an event.

Đurđica left behind her husband and two sons, Hrvoje, then 11, and Borna, just four years old. Hrvoje speaks of his mother's passing without excessive sentimentality, acknowledging the irreplaceable void she left. He particularly misses her presence in everyday family moments, sharing good news, conversations, or simply having lunch together. While he listens to her music, he finds the preserved family VHS tapes, filled with memories, especially from Pag, far more precious. He plans to digitize these recordings to safeguard them for the future.

“

We must ensure and be responsible for the event running smoothly.