Tribute

It is with grieving hearts we announce the passing of Ilver. I.V. was born in Savio, Ravenna, Italy, in 1948. In 1956, I.V. and his parents emigrated from Italy to Powell River to join his sister Lina and brother Don. At the age of 22, he decided to move to Port Hardy and opened a men’s clothing store. With no experience in the clothing industry, the first couple of years were difficult. With the guidance of his good friend Bill Ridge and his larger than life personality, I.V. soon became a fixture in Port Hardy and his clothing store flourished. Always the entrepreneur, I.V. decided to branch out and built a very successful pub and, subsequent to that, a beautiful hotel: I.V.’s Quarterdeck Pub and Inn. Retirement was not as fortunate for I.V. After he sold the pub and hotel, he had a terrible accident, which rendered him a paraplegic. Of course, this did not stop him; he made the best of this terrible situation and continued to live independently in White Rock until recently. I.V. was predeceased by his parents Ottorino and Gloria Villani and his nephew Lorne Villani. Left to mourn his loss are his son Craig (Erin) Villani, grandson Gage Villani, sister Lina Rubboli, brother Don (Rina) Villani, nephew Rob (Cindy) Villani, and many other family and friends, too many to list. We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and stories over this difficult time. We would also like to thank some very special people: Bill Ridge, Linnea Bennett, Ethel Bowerbank, Cathy Idema, all of the wonderful people at WCB and all of his doctors and health-care workers. Without these individuals’ love, assistance and dedication, the last 10 years would not have been as enjoyable and comfortable for I.V.  COVID-19 restrictions permitted, there will be a celebration of life held from 1 to 4 pm on September 25, 2021, at Town Centre Hotel. Bring your stories.