Obituary of Alma Eleonore Gianiorio

 It is with great sadness that Alma's family announces her passing on September 21, 2009.

Beloved wife of Roy of 60 years, cherished mother of Elaine Nisbet (Ron), Jo-Anne Gianiorio (Barry Muramatsu), Glen Gianiorio (Karen) and grandmother to Brittany, Anthony, Danielle, Brianna, Brooke and Nikki.

Predeceased by her loving son Gary, sister Mel Harry and brother Albert Cyr.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law Irene Cyr as well as several nieces and nephews. 

Alma was born and raised in Pincher Creek, Alberta. After graduating from nursing school at the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary in 1946, Alma worked in Rosland and Coleman Hospital's before moving to Kimberley in 1951 with her husband Roy. She raised her family as well as working in the operating room and becoming head nurse. Her shining moment in 1976 was becoming the director of nursing for her final five years of her career and retired in 1983. She was loved and respected by everyone she worked with. She loved her work; it was the essence of who she was as well as being a loving mother and wife. She enjoyed bowling, downhill and cross country skiing and especially golf after retirement. Alma and Roy travelled extensively. Her favourite holiday was to Hawaii in 1980. When you see the colour blue, smell sweet peas, see the leaves change colour in the fall, roses and carnations in bloom: think of Alma; these were her favourite things. To live in the hearts we leave behind, it is not to die.

Flowers are graciously declined. However, if friends so desire they may make a contribution to the: Alzheimer Society of B.C., #300 - 828 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 1E2. Cremation has taken place and prayers will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Kimberley on Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 7:00 pm. Her funeral mass will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, September 25, 2009 at 1:00 pm in Kimberley.

Reception to follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Hall. Many thanks to the staff at the Kimberley Special Care Home, who helped Alma live with dignity over the past 2 ½ years.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.Condolences for the family can be offered at:www.mcphersonfh.com