Oreste Zanolli

Passed away in Lethbridge at the Chinook Regional Hospital with his family by his side on Saturday, February 24, 2007, MR. ORESTE ""RUSTY"" ZANOLLI, beloved husband of 56 years of Maria Zanolli, of Lethbridge.

Oreste was born, raised and educated in Italy and immigrated to Canada in 1950. He and Maria initially resided in Taber and eventually settled in Lethbridge in 1959. A hard worker and good provider, most of Rusty's working life was spent as an employee of the City of Lethbridge, Community Services Department until his retirement in 1984. He was lifetime member of the ""Romulus et Remus"" Italian-Canadian Club as well at the Trentini Cultural Club d'Alberta.

Oreste was an avid gardener and took particular pride in the fruit producing grape vines he raised. He looked forward each fall to making wine which he loved to share with family and friends. Oreste enjoyed watching sporting events of all types but had a particular passion for soccer.

Besides his loving wife Maria, Oreste is survived by his son Norman of Lethbridge and daughter Norie Thom of Lethbridge; grandchildren that he was so proud of Mark Thom of Calgary and Patrick Thom of Lethbridge; sisters Aldina Bonomi and Rosi Cazzolli of Italy; sister-in-law Leopoldina Zanolli of Lethbridge; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families in Italy and Canada.

Oreste was predeceased by his parents Beniamino and Elvira; brother, Italo; brothers-in-law Antonio Bonomi and Cesare Cazzolli.

His caring, generous and honest nature along with an engaging sense of humor will be remembered fondly by all that knew him.

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:30 P.M., on Tuesday, February 27, 2007 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4th St. S.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., on Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at ST. BASIL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604-13th St. N., with Father Tim Boyle, celebrant. Interment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made in Rusty's memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 207, 542-7th St. S., Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1 or a charity of one's choice.