Carmela Volpatti

Carmela was born in Vinchiaturo, Italy, the third of ten siblings. She immigrated to Vancouver in 1958, leaving behind the family farm where, from the age of 10, she cared for her younger siblings, cooked for the family, and managed the household. She worked various jobs in Vancouver before meeting her future husband, Valentino, on a blind date. Together, they built a life on a family farm in Port Kells before settling in Cloverdale, where she remained for the rest of her life.

Carmela found joy in life’s simple pleasures: gardening, sunbathing, shopping at Italian delis, and preparing unforgettable meals like her famous gnocchi and lasagna. She loved baking, dining out—especially with her siblings—and watching musical performances on television. In recent years, her greatest happiness came from spending time with her great-grandchildren.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters Yolanda (Tom), Diane (Doug), and son Frank (Leah), her eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. She will also be missed by Pasquale, Rosa, Giuseppi (Lucy), and many nieces and nephews.

Carmela was predeceased by her beloved husband, Valentino, her parents Francesco and Maria Baratta, brothers Gaetano and Domenico (Judy), sisters Filomena, Camilla, Anna, and Libera, as well as other relatives and loved ones who left too soon.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Clayton Heights Care Community for their compassion and care.

A funeral service will be held at the Evangelist Chapel of the Gardens of Gethsemani Cemetery, 15694 32 Ave, Surrey, at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 14, followed by a burial service at 11:30 AM.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a reception from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Northview Golf and Country Club, 6857 168 St, Surrey, to share cherished memories of Carmela.