Luigi Giovanni Pagliaro

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Luigi Pagliaro, affectionately known as "Lou," on October 21, 2023, at the age of 78, surrounded by his beloved family.

Born on August 23, 1945, in Cleto, Cosenza, Italy, Lou, along with his mother, Carmela, and sister, Bianca, embarked on a courageous journey to Canada, settling in Revelstoke, British Columbia, in 1958, where they were joyfully reunited with their father and husband, Giuseppe.

Lou is predeceased by his parents, Carmela and Giuseppe, and his two sisters, Annuzza Ianni and Ada Marrelli.

Surviving him is his devoted wife of 55 years, Elda, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Lou is survived by his son, Joseph Pagliaro (Denise), and granddaughters, Hannah and Ava; his daughter, Melina Lytton (Shawn), and grandsons Liam and Kai; as well as his daughter, Jennifer Mason, and granddaughters Maia, Macy, and Makayla. His dear sister, Bianca Maria Imrie of Revelstoke, British Columbia, and many nieces and nephews, continue to hold him in their hearts.

After settling in Revelstoke British Columbia, Lou attended Revelstoke Secondary School and later worked on road construction on the Trans Canada Highway. He then ventured into a partnership with his compare, Phil DeCicco, forming Phil & Louis Autobody in Revelstoke. Alongside this, he managed a 24-hour tow truck service. Lou was an active member of the Knights of Columbus in Revelstoke and also contributed his services as a volunteer auxiliary with the RCMP.

In 1975, Lou and his young family moved to Kelowna British Columbia, where they were warmly welcomed into the home of Florindo and Anna Pucci and family while their Bechard Road house was being built. Once their house was completed, the Pagliaro family created many wonderful memories there for over 42 years. In 1978, Lou and his cousin, Eugene Filice, acquired Kelowna Auto Body, which became a thriving business for 27 years. After a brief retirement, Lou returned to work at Anthony's Subaru for his longtime friend, Tony Lunelli.

Lou had an undeniable passion for life and nature, tending to his garden and fruit trees, and he was often seen meticulously grooming the lawn. Lou was an avid collector, with his impressive array of hats, model cars, pocket knives, and vintage radios showcased for all to see. He took immense pride in his cantina, where he stored his homemade wine, always eager to share it lovingly around the dinner table with family and friends. Lou had a gift for engaging in lively conversations, sharing stories, and cracking jokes, sometimes laughing so hard that he couldn't reach the punchline. He possessed a profound interest and knowledge of hockey, global affairs, and politics, frequently gathering with friends at Tim Hortons to discuss life's many facets.

As a dedicated husband, a loving and protective father, and a proud nonno to his grandchildren, Lou found immense joy in witnessing his grandchildren engage in their various pursuits. He treasured each opportunity to share his wisdom, providing guidance and mentorship across various aspects of their lives. Lou will be remembered as a gentle, kind, and loyal person by all that knew him.

Lou's influence extended beyond his immediate family. He was an integral part of a vast extended family, offering his support, a comforting shoulder, and a guiding light to those in need.

He leaves behind an enduring legacy of love, respect, and inspiration.

The funeral mass honouring Lou's life will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at St. Charles Garnier Parish, located at 3645 Benvoulin Road in Kelowna, British Columbia. A private family service will be held at Lakeview Memorial Gardens Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at 2:00 pm at St. Charles Garnier Parish hall.

For those unable to attend the service in person, it will be available on Livestream at the following link:

https://youtube.com/live/JA8DF1cslRI

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the BC Cancer Foundation at www.bccancerfoundation.com or the BC Diabetes Foundation at www.bcdiabetes.org in honour of Lou's memory.