Ida Tella

Ida Tella, age 89, passed away peacefully on December 10th, surrounded by the love of her family at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital. Her warmth, strength, and kindness will continue to live on in all who knew her.

Ida will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, Nonna, sister, and loyal friend. She will be deeply missed by her children Tony (Margaret), Rob (Kristi), and her youngest son Carlo; her grandchildren Sarah (Alexander), Kyle, Emily (Owen), Sydney (Cam), and Noah (Daisy); and her first great-grandchild Matteo, one of her greatest joys, whom she was thrilled to meet this past summer. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Maria Zollino and brother-in-law Natale Troilo, who held a special place in her heart. As well as many nieces, nephews, and relatives both here and in Italy.

Ida is predeceased by her husband Domenico, her parents Francesca and Joseph, her siblings Cosmo Zollino and Gina Scopino, and sister-in-law Gina Troilo.

Born on April 17th, 1936, in Pietraferrazzana, Italy, Ida grew up surrounded by family, tradition, and the values that shaped her entire life. In January 1957, she bravely set out for Canada to begin building a new future. Ida and Domenico were married by proxy before she left Italy. On August 10th, 1958, they finally stood together at the altar in Canada. They shared a long and joyful marriage, creating a home filled with love, laughter, good food, and endless hospitality.

Her greatest pride was her three sons and her grandchildren, each of whom she supported wholeheartedly. She took joy in their achievements and celebrated every milestone with enthusiasm. Ida worked for many years at Pinecrest Home for the Aged, where she cared for others with the same compassion she showed her own family.

In her free time, Ida loved to travel, tend to her garden, cook for everyone she loved, and spend time with her dear friends. Her door was always open—often with food already on the stove. She was the ultimate supporter of her grandchildren, never missing a hockey game, school event, or milestone. If Nonna wasn’t at home, she could be found out for coffee or shopping with her niece, Josie.

Our family extends special thanks to the staff at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital—especially Char Melillo and Dr. Thomas—for their exceptional care. We would also like to thank her wonderful care team at home: Cassidy, Cassie, Chantal, Carlee, Mike, Darren, Dave, and Liam.

Ida was able to remain in her home far longer than anyone expected thanks to the unwavering, loving care of her son Carlo. His devotion meant everything to her and to our family.

We are deeply grateful for the many visits, kind messages, meals, and support offered during this time. Thank you to Carol Baletki, Sharon Skillen, Evelyn DiLello, and Rita Osinski for their cherished friendship and assistance.

If desired, donations may be made to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Ida’s memory. Ida leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and resilience. She touched the lives of everyone she met, and her memory will live on in the love and stories of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Ida’s life will be held Monday, December 22nd, 2025 at The First Baptist Church at 1:00 pm, with a reception to follow downstairs.