ELIA IAFOLLA

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ELIA IAFOLLA 1916 - 2015 Peacefully, after a recent illness, Elia Iafolla of Villalago, Italy passed away on July 28, 2015. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Alberina. He leaves to mourn his passing two sons, Felice (Lynn) of Toronto, Nick (Bonnie) of Winnipeg, five grandchildren Marc (Nadine), Tony, Suzanne (Graham), Paul, and Katie (Ken), five great-grandchildren Isabelle, Eliana, Emilie, Henry, and James, and many friends and relatives in Italy, Canada and the US. Elia immigrated to Canada in 1950 and began work with his brother Mauro as a bricklayer and terrazzo worker. A few years later, Elia and Alberina opened one of the first Italian grocery stores in Winnipeg. Many Italian families will remember shopping at the store on William after attending services at the old Holy Rosary Church on Sherbrook. Elia was a hardworking, industrious man who didn't believe in idle hands. Once asked why they began a grocery store. He replied "There was a need, but if hadn't been a store we would have started another business". Dad believed strongly in the saying "he who works for himself works with the strength of three". Dad could be opinionated and stubborn, and believed there were only two ways to do things. His way and the wrong way! In 1973 Mom and Dad retired to Italy, but they always cherished the opportunities and rewards that Canada had given them. After building their retirement home in Villalago, Italy, much to the amusement of many villagers, they named their home "Villa Canadese" in honour of the country that had given them so much. Their home was always open to visiting friends from the US, Canada, and other parts of Italy. Dad had an incredible memory and often amazed people with his ability to recall dates, people's names and details of events. He was considered the village "grandfather" and everyone in the village was looking forward to his 100th birthday next year, but unfortunately, it was not to be. We will remember Dad as hardworking, generous, a friend to many, and caring for his family and friends. Rest in peace Dad.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 05, 2015