1922 – 2013
Ottavio Biagino Donato, 91, of Revelstoke passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at Queen Victoria Hospital on November 16, 2013. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Thursday morning, November 21st at 10:30 a.m. with Father Aaron de Dios celebrant. Pallbearers are Tyler Robinson, Luigi Lamacchia, Frank Lamacchia, Frank Morrone, Sam Morrone and Mauro Morrone. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Revelstoke Hospice Society, Box 3133, Revelstoke, B.C. V0E 2S0, in memory of Ottavio.
Ottavio was born in Spezzano Piccolo, Italy on January 28, 1922, and was one of twelve children. He served in World War II and spent three years in a German prison camp that shaped and molded his lifelong view of appreciating life and family. He immigrated to Revelstoke in 1953 where he worked at CP Rail during the day and owned and operated Tony’s Barber shop every afternoon and evening.
Ottavio was a gentle man who loved being outdoors and especially enjoyed fishing. He was an avid gardener and loved to share his bounty with family and friends over a glass of homemade wine while playing his guitar. He loved being surrounded by family, laughter, food and song.
Ottavio was predeceased by his infant son Celestino, and as well, he was the last surviving family member of his eleven siblings with whom he was very close.
He leaves to mourn his loving wife Ersilia. They had known each other since they were toddlers and were married for 65 years. They shared a lifetime of joyful memories, sadness, hardship, sacrifices and laughter.
The greatest joy in Ottavio’s life was his cherished children. He was a loving and proud father to Rose (Bob) Robinson of Kamloops, Susan Oikle (Alan) of Salmon Arm, Frank (Betty) Donato of Revelstoke, Jo-Ann Norberg (Mark) of Revelstoke and John Donato of Revelstoke.
Ottavio absolutely adored his grandchildren Karrie, Crystal, Tyler and Andrea and great grandchildren Devyn, Rylee and Wylden.
He had great love for all his siblings and leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews in Canada, USA and Italy that were important to him. He always kept in touch and would love their visits and phone calls.
He also leaves to mourn his brother in law John Piluso.
With Ottavio’s passing, an era is ended, as he was the oldest Italian immigrant in Revelstoke. His wife Ersilia now holds that honor.
Messages of condolence may be sent to Ottavio’s family by viewing his obituary at www.brandonbowersfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are in the care of Brandon Bowers Funeral Home, Revelstoke.
