Lidia Ottavi

It is with truly broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Mother and Nonna at Shalom Village in the loving embrace of her children on Saturday, May 31, 2025 in her 87th year.

She was the dedicated and loving Mother of Maria Aiello and Patricia Vergata (Matteo). Cherished Nonna of Jenna, Mia, and Michael. Beloved sister of Candida and Mima. She will be dearly missed by her nieces and nephews in Italy and the US. Predeceased by her parents Olga and Alfonzo Ottavi and her siblings Settimio, Amalia, Tina, and Zelia.

Lidia’s remarkable strong will and resilience carried her throughout her life despite the many challenges she faced which were an inspiration to her family and those who knew her. Immigrating to Canada from Italy, leaving her precious family behind, Lidia dedicated her life to raising her two daughters. Lidia’s thirst for knowledge and learning made it easy for her to master the English language and adjust to a new country. Lidia’s culinary talent was second to none with her sauce, pizza and biscotti recipes always the highlight of special events. Lidia was also an expert seamstress and lovingly spoiled her children with matching dresses and outfits. Lidia’s passion for music and dancing would often result in dancing a waltz or tango in the kitchen. Lidia also had an uncanny memory remembering birth dates, important events and facts about her children, grandchildren, friends and even celebrities. As a single parent committed to providing for her girls, Lidia became a caregiver and is fondly remembered by the children and the elderly in her care. To the end, Lidia was interested in current events, impassioned by politics, watched Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy religiously and loved Late Night with Stephen Colbert. As she grew older, Lidia’s greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren and revelling in their achievements. Although our mother lived a difficult life, she was steadfast in her determination to maintain her independence and overcome any obstacles. Her love, her spirit, her brilliant mind and her presence will be cherished and sadly missed.

We are sincerely grateful to the staff and residents at Shalom Village for their love and compassion for our mother, especially Sharon and Maddi. Lidia often said that her two years at Shalom Village were among the best of her life. Also, special thanks to the medical staff and PSWs at St. Joseph’s Hospital for their care in recent weeks. Visitation will be held at Markey Dermody Funeral Home, 1774 King Street E., Hamilton, on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 from 2-5 pm and 6-9 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Most Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church, 305 East 37th Street, Hamilton on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 11:00 am. Private family interment to follow.

Donations in memory of Lidia may be made to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) via the following link https://secure.cnib.ca/ui/GNdonate/donations/start

Rest in peace, dearest Mom. May you now see the light without pain and struggle. You will forever be in our hearts. We love you and thank-you for all that you gave us.