Just when you think life can’t get any harsher, legendary Croatian singer Gabi Novak celebrated her 89th birthday under the shadow of a tragedy that shook the region. Her pain is unimaginable – just a month before her birthday, her son, renowned pianist Matija Dedić, passed away at the age of 53. Yes, you read that right – 53 years! A man who marked the music scene with his talent and hard work, gone too soon, leaving a void that nothing can fill.
In an interview with Story.hr, Gabi openly spoke about her grief and concern for her son’s health, who, as she says, worked more than he should have. Her daughter-in-law, according to her, is the family’s pillar, holding all the strings while they battle their sorrow. Gabi sent a message to everyone that health is the most important thing in life and that we should all fight to protect it, because without health, everything else loses meaning.
But it wasn’t always like this. Gabi Novak’s life was full of ups and downs and love stories that left their mark. Her first husband, academic painter Bogdan Debenjak, was part of her life for only nine months; he passed away at 87. Her second husband, Stjepan Stipica Kalogjera, one of the most significant composers and producers of the former Yugoslavia, died at 90. Their marriage lasted eight years, but they remained on friendly terms.
The fateful meeting with Arsen Dedić, a legendary musician, happened in 1973, and soon they became inseparable. Their love gave birth to their son Matija and a great musical story. As Arsen’s health deteriorated, Gabi gradually gave up her career to care for him. Arsen underwent a difficult liver transplant and dialysis due to kidney failure and passed away in 2015.
This family is a symbol of struggle, love, and pain. Gabi Novak, despite her age, shows strength and wisdom, sending a message to everyone not to forget about health and to cherish every moment. Her story is a reminder of how fragile life is and how important it is to be there for each other.
If you thought celebrities are immune to tragedies, think again. Gabi Novak and her family prove that pain doesn’t discriminate, but love and support can be a light in the darkest moments. And now, as you read this, ask yourself – how much do you really appreciate your loved ones? And have you ever told them? If you have a similar story or a different take, drop a comment, let’s see who else has a heart for these topics!
