It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gene Alexander Cervo who was tragically taken from us in a motor vehicle accident on August 1, 2013. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and loyal friend who died at 58 years of age.
Gene was born on December 3, 1954 in Blairmore, Alberta to proud parents, Edward and Audrey Cervo. At an early age, he demonstrated his talent with anything mechanical and the perseverance to get the job the done. Gene had a passion for automobiles and after his formal schooling; he found employment driving large trucks and operating heavy equipment in the logging and transport industries and had the handle “Luigi”.
As a young and charismatic young rebel, Gene won the affections of a charming and lovely young lady, Audrey Joyce Siray, and they pledged their love in holy matrimony on June 3, 1978. Gene and Audrey were further blessed with daughter and a son. His passion for automobiles came only second to his family and he began to collect and restore antique hot rods. He and Audrey spent many an hour touring the highways and towns in various car shows. He also loved snowmobiling, quading, hunting and fishing the great outdoors, gardening and his pets, especially his Chocolate Labs. He was happy and content with life until a major pitfall was placed before him; Gene was diagnosed with Chronic Gullain Barrè Syndrome that left his auto immune system depressed and his lower extremities paralyzed. Confined to a wheel chair, he still managed to work on his vehicles and organize his new garage.
Gene was a patient and determined man who continued to fight against the odds and after seeking treatments and care, was able to walk again. He accepted Christ as his saviour and was baptized by his dear friend, Fr. Thomas Vadassery, three months ago. Along with the birth of his cherished grandson whom he loved immensely, Gene discovered what really matters in life: “Take the time to smell the roses for life is short – life is precious” and always “Rod On!”
He is survived by his wife, Audrey J. Cervo of Passburg; his children, Bonnie Jean (Travis) Minion of Bellevue and Clinton (Amanda) Cervo of Lethbridge; his treasured grandson, Alexzander Gene Minion; his parents, Edward & Audrey Cervo of Burmis; his siblings, Norman Cervo of Burmis, Diane (Robert) Bergen of Pincher Creek and Loreilee Cervo of Strathmore; his uncle Ralph (Rae) Cervo; numerous nieces & nephews, extended family and friends. Thanks to special friends Douglas & Gayle Montgomery, Dennis and Paula Brazzoni and Laura and Glen Strandquist.
The Memorial Mass was held on Wednesday, August 7, 2013 at 11:00 am in the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Blairmore with Fr. Thomas Vadassery and Fr. Ben Marino officiating.
Donations in memory may be directed towards the Canadian Blood Services, 1800 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 4J5 and condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403)562-8555.