Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rina Villani, just one day following her 60th wedding anniversary. Rina was predeceased by her son Lorne Villani, sister Rosina Potesta and parents Costanzo and Beatrice Vitellone. She is survived by her loving husband Don Villani, son Robert (Cindy) Villani, her two grandsons Cole and Rylan, sisters Gina (Ron) Dini and Ester Massullo, her sister-in-law Lina Rubboli and her friends for life Yvonne Furono and Peggy Teteranko. Rina emigrated from Bagnoli, Italy, to Powell River in 1949 with her parents and sisters. She met and later married a handsome young man, Don Villani in 1961. They soon started their family and became entrenched in what Powell River had to offer. Rina was the happiest when friends and family were around. She enjoyed keeping Italian traditions alive, spending many hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm for all to enjoy. Summer months were for the spectacular vegetable garden and for up the lake, where precious memories were made each and every year. Always the giver, Rina volunteered countless hours for the fight against cystic fibrosis knowing that every bit helped a disease too well known by our family. We would like to give thanks for the exceptional care Rina received from the home support staff as well as a heartfelt thank-you to the ambulance attendants and firefighters who gave their greatest efforts to save Rina. Rina was a strong and caring person with a beautiful smile who will be missed by all.