HUGO CIVITARESE
“The Barber”
(1921-2012)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hugo Civitarese of Hillcrest, Alberta who was called to be with the Lord on September 21, 2012 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre in Blairmore at the age of 90 years.
Hugo was born on September 28, 1921 in Hillcrest, Alberta to Alex and Lucy Civitarese. He and his siblings enjoyed the simpler lifestyle of a smaller town and he was grateful to this community for their friendship and support of one another.
As Hugo grew to manhood, he accepted the call to serve and honour his country; he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War and was stationed in various places such as Toronto, Comox and Claresholm as an airline mechanic. His talent with his hands was well noted, his hard work ethic greatly admired and his charismatic nature gained him many loyal friends.
After the War, he captured the heart of a lovely and graceful young lady, Audree Mae Grant, and they pledged their love with eternal matrimony on August 16, 1947. They were further blessed with a loving family whom they cherished above all else.
Hugo provided for his family after the War as an autobody mechanic for the Ulrich’s and Lance Morgan’s garage but at the age of 38 years, he suffered a heart attack was forced to change careers to less physical work. His choice of the Bellevue town barber was a gift to us all. He shared his views with his customers and listened to their interests with an attentive ear. He attempted to win over many gentleman as fans of his Chicago Blackhawks NHL team. He also enjoyed fly-fishing, family gatherings and the excitement of the casinos (especially in Deadwood, South Dakota). He was devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend – he will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Left to mourn his passing include his wife of 65 years, Audree Civitarese of Hillcrest; his loving children, Greye (Ken) Emslie of Burnaby, Trudy (Allan) Stewart of Calgary, Dean (Kara) Civitarese of Hillcrest and Kelly (Andrew) Heath of Lethbridge; his precious grandchildren, Stacey, Ashley, Carly, Garrett, Chase and Zoe; his five great grandchildren; his brothers, Sam Civitarese of Vancouver and Tommy Civitarese of Vernon; numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and all his loyal customers and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alex and Lucy Civitarese; his brother Guido Civitarese and his sister, Yolanda Semancik.
With respect for his wishes, no funeral services will be held. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of the late Hugo Civitarese may be made to the Salvation Army, 1218-2 Ave, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E3.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.