It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Alida Passarini on October 18, 2009, surrounded by her family, of a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Left grief-stricken, sister Renza, brother in law Nigel, treasured nephews Zak and Connor, and the beloved family dog Harley. Left to mourn are relatives and friends in Trail, Italy and Vancouver especially Cousins Marisa and Lawrence. She was predeceased by father Ermenegildo (1982), mother Ada (2004), and brother Renzo (1953). Born in Treviso. Italy on September 16, 1947 and immigrated to Trail, B.C. in 1953. After completing her education, she worked for 32 years for West Kootenay Power and Light. Upon retirement, she moved to Victoria (1999) to be closer to her sister and family. Began work at Sears as a beauty advisor and made many good friends through work and at the gym where she was a regular fixture. Alida lived for her family and cherished her time spent with them, especially her two beloved nephews. ‘It was all about the boys.’ One of the highlights of her life was returning to Italy after a 50 year absence; she forged a strong bond with her many relatives. She left a distinct impact on all she met which was evident in the overwhelming support she received during her illness. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. M. Vaughan and his wife Denise and family for their continued support throughout this harrowing ordeal. A special thanks to Laurie Wahl who always reminded her to ‘breathe in breathe out’ and to the many friends that gave so generously of their love and time. Many thanks to the B.C. Cancer Agency doctors and staff especially Drs. Lupe and Halloway, and to all the nurses and staff at Hospice. She is at peace now but we are all left with a huge hole in our hearts that can never be filled. Miss you forever-sweet sister.
No funeral by request. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice in Alida’s memory would be appreciated. A celebration of life will be held at the Uplands Golf Club on November
22, 2009 from 2:00-5:00 p.m.

40 Responses
Dear Renza and Family
It was with great sadness that I read in the Trai Times of your sister Alida’s passing. Life is so tender, so fragile, so very precious. I can appreciate you loss as a few months back our family lost our sister in law Sue at the age of 57 due to cancer and also my mother before her. Our thoughts of deep and sincere sympathy are with you and your family at this time. May the many memories of your time together help you through the coming days ahead. She was a special lady and will be missed by those who knew her!
Sincerely
Franca and the Marino Family
Dear Renza, Nigel and family….
I can’t believe this… I am so sorry and so saddened by this news.
I really loved Alida!
As you may know we worked along side each other at Sears Cosmetics.
We had so much fun together. She was such a strong but sensitive beautiful women… She loved life & her family…
I am sorry I never got to say good bye.
Renza, I know how close you all were…
My thoughts are with you and your family.
I Love you Lida Always!
I am so Glad that I got to know her!
Thank you for that!
Such a special lady!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Nike
Dear Renza, Nigel and family,
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your lovely sister Alida.
We had the good fortune to chat with Alida at Sears over the years. She was always beautiful and a total pro.
Our thoughts are with you all.
Patty and Hud
Renza, Nigel & Family:
I was so sorry to read of your loss. It is a strong and beautiful tribute to Alida, so much so, I felt your profound sadness and love so strongly, that tears came streaming down my face. I couldn’t even guess how often you have cried and how hard it has been, but I do hope you take comfort in knowing that you were there for Alida in all the ways that count. She was so lucky to have you!
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Laura
Dear Renza and Nigel,
My thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. I was so surprised to hear about Alida’s illness since she was the epitome of a healthy woman. She will surely be missed by both of you, and Zak and Connor. She was such a fantastic and committed Aunty. I am so sorry, Renza.
Myrna
I met Alida when I was working at West Kootenay Power in 1988. I always enjoyed Alida’s sense of humour.
Since moving to Victoria Jane and I would frequently run into her at Sears. I would also see her often walking Harley on Emily Carr Drive when I was driving to or from work. We would sometimes have a chat.
I was thinking about her just the other day. Please accept my heart felt condolences – I always enjoyed talking to Alida and can olny imagine how much you will miss her.
Dear Renza, Nigel, Zak and Connor,
What a shock it was to see Alida’s picture in the TC and to read of her passing. I saw her frequently at the gym, she seemed so healthy and full of life during the summer. I know how very involved she was in all your lives and I understand how she will be so dearly missed. I recall both you Renza and Nigel often saying how lucky you were to have her living so close to you since her retirement.
I just wanted to send along my thoughts and deepest sympathy during this difficult time for you. Lucky are you to have shared such a special relationship and enjoyed all the times that you had together …. for sure the years of special memories and wonderful moments together will serve as some comfort to you.
With sincere condolences,
Nessie
I first met Alida when I worked as a summer student at West Kootenay Power in Trail in 1991. Sixteen years later, in 2006, when I was on maternity leave with my first child, I was wandering through Sears and Alida and I recognized each other. It took us a few minutes to work out that we had worked together at WKP. Thereafter, every time I was walking through Sears (which was pretty often when I was on maternity leave), she would give me a big smile, say hello, and inquire about my daughter. Although I saw her less often after I returned to work, she was always quick to say hello if I was in Sears.
I was just thinking the other day that I hadn’t seen her at Sears in a while, and then I saw her obituary in the paper. Please accept my deepest condolences – she was so full of life!
Lesley Ruzicka
Dear Renza & family:
What a shock I received when I opened Friday’s Trail Times and read of Alida’s sudden passing. I cannot imagine the sorrow you must feel. I am so very, very sorry for your loss.
I am so glad that you had the time since her retirement from WK, to spend together.
Take comfort in knowing others are thinking of you. Those precious memories will keep her close to your heart forever!
Love,
Sandy (Schiavon)
Dear Renza & family: I was most saddened to hear of the loss of your dear sister Alida. Thinking back, I remember when your family came to Trail from Italy and everyone was talking about the cute little blonde Italian girl. And growing up Alida always took great pride in her appearance and was a beautiful lady. I know the two of you were very close and it is heartbreaking to lose someone so dear to you and your family. Cherish all the beautiful memories you have of her and she will always be close to your heart.
May time heal your pain and bring a smile to your face when you think of the wonderful times you shared with Alida.
With my heartful condolences,
Carol (Schiavon) Babcock