It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Erminio Colausig of Coleman, Alberta, who was called to be with the Lord on April 17, 2013 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre in Blairmore, Alberta at the age of 81 years. He was a master with concrete, an inspiration with his tireless work ethic and a loyal friend who donated much of his time to help others.
Erminio Colausig was born in Gradiaca D’isonzo, Italy to proud parents Pietro and Italia Colausig. He was raised with an appreciation for family and the rewards from a hard day’s work. As a young man, he watched the master craftsman make and sculpt concrete from their base materials. His enthusiasm and dedication were eventually welcomed and the secrets of the trade were revealed to him. He witnessed the struggles of his country with war and knew hardships and trials.
Erminio grew to be a dashing young man who had the good fortune to win the love of Vilma, a beautiful and graceful young lady. They married and began a family. They immigrated to Canada for the opportunity to make a better life and made a home in the Crowsnest Pass. Erminio found work at the Summit Lime Works as a labourer and later at the Byron Creek Collieries plying his trade skills and demonstrating how hard and dedicated he could be. Vilma could not adjust to the harsher environment of Alberta and moved back to Italy. Erminio continued his labours sending money to his family regularly. He was proud of his children and sacrificed much for their welfare.
After his well-earned retirement, Erminio maintained his regime of hard work by accepting concrete jobs specializing with cemetery gravesite projects. He loved to reward himself with a beer at the Grand Union and on occasion, donate his money to their VLTs. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, smoking his hand-rolled tobacco and tending his garden. His faith and respect for the Lord guided him in his integrity and we know in our hearts that he has a place heaven. Until we meet again, rest in peace.
Erminio is survived by loving sons, Adrian Colausig and Roberto Colausig of Italy; his grandson, Pietro Colausig; his sisters-in-law, Marie and Ada; his nephew, Renatto; his extended family in Italy and in Canada including his friend, Eugene Fabro and family; as well as the many friends he made throughout his lifetime.
Erminio was predeceased by his wife Vilma; parents, Pietro and Italia; his brother-in-law, Alex Braidotti; and his sister.
A public Visitation will be held on Monday, April 22, 2013 from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm with further tributes and toasts to follow at the Grand Union.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2013 at the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Blairmore at 11:00 am with Fr. Ben Marino as Celebrant and Rev. Renso Castellarin as Deacon. Interment of his cremated remains will occur in Italy in the family section of the cemetery. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. Donations in memory of the late Erminio Colausig may be directed towards cancer research or the CNP Memorial Society.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.