In loving memory
DONALD FILAFILO
(1934-2012)
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Mr. Donald Dante Filafilo of Coleman, Alberta who was called home by the Lord on November 12, 2012 at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge at the age of 78 years.
Donald was born on June 9, 1934 in Coleman, Alberta to proud parents, Dante and Violet Filafilo. His childhood provided him with the opportunity to experience and enjoy life’s more simple pleasures. He would often sneak off fishing with good friend Teddy Michalski, devote hours to working on broken down equipment with this father and explore the backwoods hunting and camping. He quit school at age sixteen and took on work hauling logs, gravel and coal. He developed his natural talent in mechanics while working at Summit Lime Works and later bought his own truck for hauling. He grew to be a handsome young gentleman with a highly discerning eye; his gaze fell upon Irene Taborski, a lovely and charming young lady. He worked tirelessly to capture her heart. On July 3, 1954, they were wed in holy matrimony and have enjoyed 58 years of love and devotion. They were further blessed with two children, Rick and Cindy and much later several grandchildren.
Donald provided for his family as a fully qualified mechanic and large haul truck driver. He was injured at 52 years of age and although it slowed him down, his determination and meticulous nature allowed him to continue working at home and within this community. He was a proud Life Member of the Elk’s, the Good Sam’s Club, the CNP Pistol Club and the Crowsnest Mountain Gun Club. His hobbies included dancing, snowmobiling, “pulling wrenches”, and gathering firewood (lots of firewood). Donald will be dearly missed and never forgotten – may he find peace and happiness in his new heavenly home.
Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life include his beloved wife, Irene Filafilo of Coleman; his loving children, Rick (Barb) Filafilo of Calgary and Cindy (Roger) Tremblay of Coleman; his precious grandchildren, Lexie (Wayne) Filafilo-Kinjo, Heather (Jeff Stauffer) Filafilo, Analie (Ryan Ramage) Tremblay and Jay (Cassidy Zeller) Tremblay; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family; and his many friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Dante and Violet Filafilo and his brother Edward.
The Memorial Service celebrating Donald’s life will be held on Saturday, November 24, 2012 at 2:30 pm at the Elk’s Hall (2025-129 St) in Blairmore. Special tributes will be provided by members of the family, the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, and his many friends.
Donations would be gratefully accepted in Donald’s memory to S.T.A.R.S. Air Ambulance, (1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570, Calgary, AB T2E 8M7), or to the CNP Health Fdn, “Greatest Needs” program, (Bag 1, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0) or to the Elk’s & Royal Purple Fund for Children, (#100, 2629-29 Ave, Regina, SK S4S 2N9). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.