The names behind the Lithuanian Business, Maistas continued...

Jonas Šlyteris

Jonas Šlyteris was born on 29 August 1895 in Smunkučiai village, Jurbarkas district, Lithuania.

During the First World War, Jonas was mobilised into the Russian Imperial Army and served in its ranks. After returning to Lithuania, he answered the call to serve his newly restored homeland and on 14 January 1919 volunteered to join the Lithuanian Army. He took part in the struggles for Lithuanian independence, fighting against both the Bermontian forces and the Polish army.

Following the establishment of independent Lithuania, Jonas joined the Lithuanian Postal Service. Throughout his career, he served as a postmaster in Vievys, Šėta and Vilkija. In recognition of his contribution to the country, he was awarded the Medal of the Tenth Anniversary of Lithuanian Independence in 1928.

At the end of the Second World War, as the front once again approached Lithuania, Jonas was forced to retreat westwards. Like many Lithuanians of his generation, he left his homeland behind and eventually arrived in Australia in 1949. Initially settling in Tasmania, he later moved to Sydney, where he became an active member of the Lithuanian community.

After retiring in 1960, Jonas shared his life with his former business partner and close friend, Juozas Grybas. In retirement, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially fishing and hunting.

Although he had built a new life in Australia, Jonas never forgot his family in Lithuania. From the savings he had earned through his work, he provided strong financial support to his wife and daughters, Irena and Nijolė, who remained in Lithuania.

Jonas was deeply involved in the life of the Sydney Lithuanian community. He was a committed member of the Lithuanian Veterans’ Association Ramovė, serving on its committees, and also contributed to broader community activities, including serving for a time on the district board.

Jonas Šlyteris passed away in Sydney on 7 January 1978. Until the end of his life, he waited with hope for the arrival of his daughter from Lithuania; sadly, she was only able to reach Australia after her father had already passed away.

His funeral took place on 20 January 1978. Following the service, his remains were cremated at the Rookwood Crematorium, marking the final farewell to a man whose life reflected courage, service, resilience and dedication to both Lithuania and the Lithuanian community in Australia.

1978-02-06-MUSU-PASTOGE.pdf p.2 J. Kapočius Military volunteer