George Edward Buttazzoni

George Eduardo Buttazzoni, beloved husband, father, nonno (grandfather), son, brother, zio/uncle and friend passed peacefully on January 11, 2026, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He was 78 years old.

Born on February 3, 1947, in Sedegliano, Udine, Italy, George will always be remembered for his kindness, resilience and deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. George was predeceased by his parents, Luigi and Adele Buttazzoni, his sister Emma Lizzi, and great nephew Reid Davidson.

Geo is survived by Heather, his loving wife of 52 years, his son, Christopher, his sister, Maria Buttazzoni, and brother-in-law, Enzo Lizzi. He was a devoted nonno to Hayden (Desi), Brooklyn (Kie) and Savannah, each of whom held a special place in his heart. George is also survived by many nieces and nephews and an abundance of good friends as well as extended family in Italy, Australia and the United States, all of whom were touched by his love and kindness throughout their lives. George also leaves behind his faithful ‘fur buddy’ Toby.

George came to Canada with his family in 1951 from Italy. He grew up in Lethbridge, Alberta. After completing his secondary education in Lethbridge, he pursued various studies in health care at Cariboo College and BCIT which led him to nursing positions at Tranquille, Essondale (Riverview) as a student nurse, Vancouver General Hospital and Royal Inland Hospital. George and Heather met in North Vancouver in the early ‘70s and were married in 1974. In 1980, they moved to Kamloops to be close to family. George and Heather’s dream of becoming parents was realized with the adoption of Christoper in May of 1983.

George had a great love for reading, entertaining, gardening, nature, camping and fishing. He also loved all genres of music and had an inquisitive mind for history, science fiction and politics. He was an avid photographer and enjoyed travelling. George was a natural techie, and he had a passion for new vehicles. He also was a lover of animals.

As the most enthusiastic cheerleader (loud), George’s voice echoed through many sporting venues while watching his son and grandchildren. He assisted with coaching soccer and volunteered with many sports teams and organizations over the years.

Above all, George treasured his family and lifelong friends. The ‘Pinesprings Irregulars’ friend group held a special place in Geo’s heart. He was a constant in many people's lives and was concerned with everyone’s well-being. He always had an open door for anyone. George loved his grandchildren deeply, evident in the beautiful words shared by his grand daughter, Brooklyn:

To me, Nonno was a best friend and a constant presence in my life. He taught me countless lessons through love and laughter, and his impact on my life will never be forgotten. He was one of the most important people in my life and I am so grateful I got to call him my Nonno. He may be gone but he will live in my heart forever and always. I love you and not a day will go by that I won’t think of you. Rest easy Nonno.

The entire family wishes to express gratitude to Dr. Jonathan Wiltshire for his care and compassion and visits with Geo and family at hospice. We would also like to acknowledge the valuable contribution of the staff on the 5th floor of Royal Inland Hospital, and the BC Cancer Agency. The specialized care and compassion at Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice Home provided great comfort to George and solace to family and friends in his final days.

Father Dale Normandeau will celebrate a memorial mass on Friday, January 23 at 11:00 am at St. John Vianney Catholic Church (2826 Bank Road).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice (operated by Kamloops Hospice Association), or the BC SPCA in George’s name.

As George would always say at the end of a conversation: ‘Be Good!’