Obituary of Lillian Profeta-Niro

November 28, 1959 - Caprafico, Abruzzo, Italy

January 24, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Mrs. Lillian Profeta-Niro, beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Daughter, Aunt, Friend, and Instructor, of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at the age of 63 surrounded by the love and light of her family and close friends.   

Born in Caprafico, Abruzzo, Italy on November 28, 1959, she later emigrated with her parents and sister Maria in 1962, and they settled in Calgary to form roots. Getting her first taste of the entrepreneurial spirit, she joined her sister in helping their father with odd-jobs surrounding his real estate business.

In high school, she took a liking to beauty culture, in which she met Mrs. Patricia Finestone, who was a key mentor and inspiration for her life and career. Lillian received her certification from the Alberta Apprenticeship board in June 1977, when she officially began her career as a celebrated Beautician.

Known in the community by many friends and clients over the years, she practiced in private and public spaces, including the established “Freedom Hair” on Centre Street, that she managed with her sister Rosanna after they acquired it in 1989. Lillian also frequented the cosmetics industry, having worked at Woodwards, Boots, and Shoppers over the years.

In 1993, Lillian married Giuseppe, and they soon after welcomed their beloved son Renato in 96’, who became their pride and joy.

Lillian was also so proud to have worked with the Calgary Board of Education since 2006. There she actively shared the career and passion she loved so dearly, all while bringing her knowledge and experiences to the next generation of students interested in Cosmetology. Hearing stories of how “Mrs. Niro inspires me,” was exactly why she was so proud of the work she did. Each semester, she would often share the poem “The Girl in the Glass” with her students, encouraging them to be true to themselves.

Besides her loving husband and son, Lillian is survived by her sisters, Maria Spencer and Rosanna Hanania; sister-in-law Lina Margiotta; mother-in-law Elisa Niro, brother-in-law Rony Hanania, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends and relatives abroad. Lillian was predeceased by her mother Gemma, father Umberto, father-in-law Raffaele Niro, and brother-in-law Donald Spencer.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. to share in the memory of her amazing spirit.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish (1714 – 14th Avenue N.E., Calgary, AB) on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to join the Reception that will follow in the parish hall.

Lillian brought care in service of others; whether that was touching many lives through her friendship, or being a dedicated mentor for the next generation - her legacy is one of grace, kindness and learning filled with many bright stories and memories. She will be remembered for a smile and laugh that would bring joy to, and light up any room.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here. We also invite you to think of your favourite memory or story of Lillian, which can be shared privately with the family at either service.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Rd. N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Telephone: (403) 205-3966, email donorservices@cancer.ab.ca, or  the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 8602 - 112 Street, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1, 800-563-2450, https://www.albertadiabetesfoundation.com/.

In living memory of Lillian Profeta-Niro, 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.