Ferdinando Giovanni Luvisotto

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Ferdinando Giovanni Luvisotto on January 30, 2026. Fred, or affectionately known by some as Freddy, was born on August 16, 1933 to Antinesca (Annie) and Domenico Luvisotto in Nanaimo, BC.

Fred will be profoundly missed by his beloved and devoted Doris, daughters Carmella (Michael Baird), Fernanda (Evan Creedon), and cherished grandchildren Sophia, Eanna and Francesca and in-laws, Annie and Ted Miroslaw, nieces Janene, Carlin(Ted), and their families, and Sevcov/Rovere/Luvisotto cousins in Nanaimo, Ontario and Italy. He also leaves his close school friends John and Donn Sherry, Roy Hughes, Ray Endrizzi as well as many other long-time friends.

In 1950, Fred graduated from St. Ann's Convent and following a short career with BC Tel, he pursued a Degree in Education. Fred began teaching in Nanaimo at Quennel Elementary where he taught Grades 5 and 6. Fred’s love for music brought him to start the first elementary school band in Nanaimo. He later taught for many years at Dufferin Crescent and then Park Avenue and enjoyed the role of Learning Assistant Teacher for 35 of his 41 years of elementary teaching. During his years as a teacher, Fred became affectionately known as “Groovy Luvy” and was also named Teacher of the Year. Fred devoted many hours to extracurricular sports activities, including coaching his daughters’ softball teams.

Fred met the love of his life Doris at the Pygmy Ballroom who he courted for 10 years before marrying Doris 63 years ago. Fred’s passion for music started at a very young age. At age 13, trumpet in hand, Fred joined the Nanaimo Concert Band, remaining there until April 2025. While in his teenage years, he was a member of the Nanaimo Symphony Orchestra and at times would sit in with the Pygmy Big Band. He was a founding member of NMA and also played in the Larry Thomas combo for many years. Fred loved jazz music and passed his love to his daughters and granddaughter, Sophia. Fred’s rhythm and groove also transcended to the dance floor, often attracting an awe-struck crowd as he performed his “infamous splits” and artistic steps. Fred and Doris jived the night away.

Fred loved tending to his yard and garden, and passed down his green thumb to his daughters and grandchildren. He enjoyed taking in nature's wonders, fishing, and watching and playing many sports, including basketball, ice and floor hockey, and baseball. He was also a skilled bowler, following in his parents’ footsteps.

Fred was very proud of his Italian heritage, having spent much loving time with his parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles during his youth. In keeping with family tradition, since 1996 Fred enjoyed his connections with the Felice Cavallotti Lodge where he held the positions of President and Vice-President many times.

Fred will be forever remembered for his gentleness, kindness, patience and charisma, his witty sense of humour and for bringing joy and laughter to others. He treasured his family and was always there for them. Fred’s legacy has made a lasting impact to all who knew him.

Fred, Dad, Nonno will be deeply missed and remain in our hearts forever. Our family wishes to extend special thanks and gratitude to the many medical professionals in Nanaimo and Victoria for their support for the past 25 years.

A funeral service will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Spartan Rd. on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 1:00 pm with reception to follow downstairs. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC, BC Kidney Foundation, Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation or one’s choice.