Elia Anitta PETOVELLO

Elia married Kiki in 1952 and built a life through their strength in faith that lasted over 70 years. They were inseparable from day one, starting their first business, Kiki’s Meats & Groceries in 1953, which eventually led to Kiki’s Transfer, then Kiki & Sons Transfer, and then to K and K Forwarding before retiring in 2008. Elia was primarily the bookkeeper, but also served as “Mom” for the many drivers that worked for them over the years. She was remembered for diligently handwriting all her work, lending money before payday, and turning a blind eye to the pranks pulled by their character crew of employees, which fulfilled her fun yet quiet sense of humour.

Road trips during their working days to Reno were a favorite memory of hers to see shows such as Englebert Humperdinck and Bonanza. Despite being the backbone to business ventures, Elia remained the rock of the family. She will forever be cherished by every child, grandchild, and great grandchild for doing everything for everyone. No one was allowed in her kitchen for big gatherings during birthdays and Christmas, as she had everything under control. She loved to cook and bake, and her family loved to eat!

Elia’s house was the sanctuary for everyone to come receive the comfort of a warm meal or big hug. She was always in a good mood and made everyone feel loved. Motorhome trips were exciting for every grandchild, who all got to experience different directions of highway with Nonno and Nonna. For a quiet lady, who liked to remain behind the scenes and never be in any photos, she could not contain herself to make a scene in the hockey arena. Whether at games or attending practices, she was known to scream extatically anytime her grandsons would score a goal. She was a fierce competitor at family card games as well. There was no cheating allowed, even for the grandkids. You had to earn your victory fair and square, but she always made sure the kids went home with some coins in their pockets from looney cakes at dessert.

Each of her sons had their own special bond with her, which was based upon love and respect. These values were passed on to the generations that followed, ensuring that the Matriarch was treated the way she deserved to be. And of course, Elia’s best friend was her daughter, Karen. They loved to shop together and try on outfits for each other’s approval.

Elia was a devoted Catholic, serving as a proud member of the CWL for over 50 years. But most of all, Elia was a proud wife. Her entire family is beyond blessed to have been raised under the leadership of her and Kiki’s unconditional, unwavering love and guidance.

Elia is survived by her husband, Alex, better known as Kiki; two sons: Melvin (Cheryl) and Kent (Cheryl); grandchildren: Angelo (Shannon), Karla (Steve), Kyle (Michelle), Kevin, Stephanie (Robert), and Katie (Josh); great grandchildren: Anthony, Matthew, Alyssa, Melody, Mason, Zachary, Isaiah, Lucas, and Emma. She was predeceased by her parents Federico and Magenta; children Karen and Douglas; sisters Noami, Arnella, and Joan; parents in-law Angelo and Dora, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and friends.