Obituary of Marcel Ferraris

April 5, 1929 - Lausanne, Switzerland

August 8, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Marcel Ferraris of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at the age of 94 years.

Marcel was born in Lausanne, Switzerland on April 5, 1929, and was raised in the municipality of Prilly, a western suburb of Lausanne. Marcel completed his schooling in Switzerland, including studies in commerce and obtaining a degree from the School of Agriculture in Marcelin. After completing mandatory military service in Switzerland, Marcel moved to Penhold, Alberta in 1949. He was fluent in French, German, and Italian when he arrived and learned English in Canada. He moved to Calgary in 1951.

Marcel was a hard worker. From farm handyman when he landed in Canada to delivery boy and then furniture salesman at Lewis Stationary, Marcel never lost his vision of working for himself.  He worked for Premier Sports as a salesman before he started his own business. Marcel was the very proud owner of Premier Athletic Supply, providing sporting equipment to schools and communities across Western Canada until he sold it upon retirement in 2002.

Marcel met Marjorie Roppel skiing in 1952 and the two married in 1955.  Marjorie and skiing would become Marcel’s two passions for the next fifty plus years, spending every weekend together on the slopes of Mount Norquay until 1960, moving to Lake Louise from then on.  They enjoyed the comforts and hospitality of the Post Hotel from 1972 until Marjorie’s passing in 2003.  When they were not on the ski hill, Marjorie and Marcel enjoyed being Aunt and Uncle to a rapidly expanding family in Southern Alberta and Switzerland.

In the summer months, Marcel and Marjorie would travel back to his beloved Switzerland to visit family and travel Europe together. No matter where he went, Marcel will be remembered by all he met for his booming laugh that could always be heard across the room.

In later life, Marcel spent many happy years with Marjorie’s good friend Betty McFadyen, as her first husband had passed as well. He continued to show his love of the mountains and traveling by taking Betty to all his favorite places including the Post Hotel, Switzerland, and Europe.

Marcel was a member of the Swiss Club of Calgary and maintained other long-standing affiliations like the Chevron Alumni Social Club. He was a constant fixture at social club events in his Lodge and loved the travel excursions because of the opportunity to look at the scenery and explore.

Marcel is survived by two sisters-in-law, Audrey Tannas of High River, and Christiane Ferraris Luisier of Lonay, Switzerland; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Marcel was predeceased by his loving wife Marjorie, his younger brother Rene Ferraris, and his devoted friend and companion Betty McFadyen.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary) on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Ferraris' Funeral Service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Marcel’s family. A graveside service will be held at Queen’s Park Cemetery at 1:00 PM for those interested in attending.

In living memory of Marcel Ferraris, 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.

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