Lidia Merenda

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Lidia Merenda – beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to so many. She lost a short battle with cancer on June 16, 2020, but fought courageously until the very end.

Lidia was born in Mangone, Cosenza Italy on July 7, 1936 into a large, loving family. While still living in Italy she met the love of her life, Gino Merenda. They soon married and began building their family with the birth of their daughter, Saverina and their son Domenico shortly thereafter. Lidia and Gino made the decision to immigrate their family to Canada in 1962, and settled in East Vancouver. With her early years spent living within a convent in Rome, she learned fine needlepoint and incredible sewing skills, which enabled her to work as a skilled tailor all while bringing up her children as an exemplary homemaker. She truly was a remarkable woman.

Lidia loved and cared for those around her deeply, whether you were family or not. She will be remembered for her overwhelming kindness and generosity – no ask was too much. She had the ability to make new friends everywhere she went, partly because she loved talking to people but largely because of her infectious, bubbly personality and her heart of gold. Lidia is survived by her children; Saverina (Giovanni Rizzuti), Domenico (Luisa); her grandchildren; Franco (Julia), Alexandra, Vanessa and Adam; great grandchildren Nicholas and Alyssa; sisters Eva (Joe Ceolin), Ines (Rino Tonon), sister in-laws Maria Pingitore and Emma Merenda; as well as many loving nieces and nephews in both Canada and Italy.

Lidia was predeceased by her beloved husband Gino Merenda, as well her brothers Giovanni, Pietro and Franco Pingitore, her sister Enza Militerno, brother in-law Palmo Merenda, and sister-in-law Amina Pingitore.

Lidia loved flowers, and hence, the family will gladly accept any floral tributes. For charitable donations in her memory, please consider Canadian Cancer Society. Alternatively, please plant a tree or perennial in her memory.

Viewing will be held on Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 at Bell & Burnaby Funeral Chapel at 4276 Hastings Street, Burnaby, BC V5B 2J6 from 6:30-8:00PM. Due to Covid-19 restrictions the funeral mass will be held privately.