Obituary of Isabella Maria Aquila

March 27, 1943 - Castelsilano, Italy
December 4, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sorrow that the family of Isabella Maria Aquila of Calgary, AB, announces her passing on Saturday, December 4, 2021. Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend passed away at the age of 78 years, a day that will forever be remembered in our hearts.  

Isabella was born in Castelsilano, Italy on March 27, 1943, and immigrated to Canada on April 7, 1966. For a short while she worked in a restaurant and on the chicken farm, as time went on, she started her family. By the time Isabella had her third child she gave up working to become a full-time housewife and mother. Isabella had a passion for cooking and baking and constantly spent her time in the kitchen. Her focus was always on her children and nothing else. Her favourite outdoor activity was gardening, she had a passion for flowers, she loved planting flowers everywhere! 

Isabella is survived by her two daughters, Maria, and Lisa; one son Luigi, son-in-law Giuseppe Gradilone, four grandchildren, Sophia, Vanessa, Francesco, and her pride and joy Makayla; and four great-grandchildren, Ariya, Iyla, Aurora, and Alessio; along with nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her three sisters, Caterina Ammirati, Vincenza Cortese-Ammirati, and Marietta Ammirati. Isabella will be missed by her honourary second family, whom she loved so much, Giovanni Frustaci along with his children, Rosina Slisko who was like a daughter to her, Daniel Slisko, Nick Frustaci, Rosario Frustaci, and Marisa Frustaci; and grandchildren, Gianluca Frustaci, Alessio Frustaci, Anton Slisko, and Maximo Slisko.

Isabela was predeceased by her two sisters, Theresa Ammirati, and Rosina Ammirati; and three brothers Saverio Ammirati, Salvatore Ammirati, and Francesco Ammirati.

Isabella was so loved by so many people. This amazing mother will forever be missed. Her amazing smile and laughter will always be remembered. 

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel Of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB), on Monday, December 13, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Mausoleum. Those attending will be asked to provide valid government identification (with name and date of birth) AND confirm one of the following: (A)Provincial vaccine record with QR code (paper or digital); OR (B)negative COVID test (within 72 hours); or (C)valid medical exemption (signed letter); OR (D)under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Isabella Aquila, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.