Obituary of Norma Elisa Persello Buttignol

The family of our dear mother and grandmother, Norma, sadly say that she has peacefully departed after a four month illness with pancreatic cancer.

Norma was born to Cirillo and Diletta Persello on April 13, 1939, in Kimberley, BC, the youngest of two daughters (Ada). In 1956 Norma met Umberto who had recently immigrated to Canada from Italy. Norma and Berto resided for 67 years in their home on Rotary Drive. They created a family of three children, Kelly, Loretta and Marco. Sadly Loretta passed away shortly after birth.

Many may recall Norma from the early ‘90’s when she received FAME with her talking Budgie, Pluming, on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. She’s come to be known since then as the “Bird Lady”. The clip appears on YouTube.

Mourning this loss are her children, Kelly and Marco (Nioma), and her grandson Benjamin.  Also left behind are her dear cousin, Katie; cousins, Louise, Frances, David and Toni; Ada’s children, Laurie, Pam, Robin and Russell and their families; other cousins in Canada and Italy, many dear friends and neighbors.

Norma was predeceased by her husband, baby daughter, mother and father, sister as well as many other family members, close friends and neighbors. There will be a big reunion up there for sure!

We extend a special thank you to Dr. Buddo, Nurse Justin, Dr. Lunge, Kimberley Home Care, Dr. Buchar, Claire Jacklin, Bobbie Seifried and all of our dear friends who have called and held Mom in their prayers.

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Centre 64 in Kimberley, BC.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Kimberley Loan Cupboard, the SPCA (or animal rescue), Centre 64 Kimberley Arts Council or BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.