Obituary of Eda De Luca

DE LUCA, EDA ANNE formerly of Vancouver, B.C. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eda peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, at St. Joseph's Lifecare Centre, Brantford on February 11, 2013. Eda was born October 15, 1917 in Toronto, Ontario and shared her life with Eugene De Luca for 57 years before his passing in 1995. She was the cherished mother of Rod and Susie De Luca (Depoe Bay, Oregon), Catherine and David Gillaspie (Denver, Colorado) and Kim and Jim Stephenson (Brantford, Ontario). She was also the adored grandma/nonna of Jonathan and Pamela Gillaspie, Christopher and Rebecca Gillaspie, Pamela and Meghan De Luca, Angie and Jason Keep, Matthew, Andrew and Sara Stephenson and great grandchildren Alex and Claire Gillaspie, Pita Keep and Nolen De Luca. She was predeceased by an infant granddaughter Angelina Gillaspie and infant greatgrandson Luca Keep. Gene's work within the pulp and paper industry took the family across Canada before they finally settled in Vancouver. While living there, Eda was an active member of Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club where she golfed regularly until she was 85. She also enjoyed playing bridge, dancing, cooking, and had a real passion for shopping for bargains. As an avid sports fan she enjoyed many professional sports but what she loved best was cheering on the athletic pursuits of her children and grandchildren. Eda and Gene also loved to travel especially to their retreat on Maui where they were often joined by friends and family. Eda had a true gift in developing lasting friendships with people of all ages. Due to her generous nature and willingness to share in the true Italian spirit, her home was a haven to many. Friends could arrive at any time to be greeted with open arms and a well cooked meal. Her ability to listen and provide wise advice (as well as milkshakes at midnight and an oven full of pizzas) led her to be considered a second mom by many. The family would like to thank Dr. John Hadley for his compassionate care. We would also like to express our thanks to the staff at St. Joseph's Lifecare Centre. Words cannot adequately express the heartfelt thanks the family has for the loving care that Eda received while a resident. At Eda's request, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will take place in Denver at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Joseph's Lifecare Centre, 99 Wayne Gretzky Parkway, Brantford, Ontario N3S 6T6 (www.sjlc.ca)