A Winnipeg pastor known for his dramatic transformation from rapper and gang member to preacher has passed away.
Tomislav Milardovic's daughter confirmed his death in a Facebook post early Tuesday, May 13. No further details surrounding his death have been released at this time.
People have already begun to flood social media with condolences and tributes to Milardovic and his family.
A life transformed
Before entering ministry, Milardovic was part of the award-winning Canadian rap group Team Rezofficial, which reached number one on MuchMusic’s RapCity.
The group enjoyed nationwide success, and Milardovic lived a life immersed in music, gangs, and drugs.
His life took a drastic turn in his early 20s when he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Doctors told him at the time that his heart was functioning at only 12 to 17 per cent capacity—comparable to that of an 80-year-old man. They believed the condition would never improve.
During his hospital stay, a visit from his mother’s pastor introduced him to Christianity. Milardovic later said that encounter changed everything. He promised to attend church once released from hospital—and did. He eventually gave his life to Christ and later entered ministry, serving as Associate Pastor at Encounter Life Ministries for a time.
He preached around North America and often boldly prayed for people he met in public.
In a 2013 Facebook post, Milardovic testified to what he called a miraculous healing. After years of declining heart function, doctors told him his heart had fully recovered—an outcome they called "extremely rare."
“I told my doctor I know a Healer and His name is Jesus,” he wrote at the time.
Milardovic’s story was one of redemption, transformation, and hope. He frequently shared his journey publicly, hoping to reach others in dark places with the Gospel.