SLIMA MARIA BIFANO On Saturday, January 24, 2009, Maria Bifano, at the age of 84 years, passed away peacefully at Overlander Extended Care, with her family at her side. Maria was pre-deceased by her husband Antonio in 1980, and most recently her sister Zenaide in Italy. Mama, Nana, sister, aunt is survived by her two children Victor (Mavis) and Anna Dunford (Dennis), Edmonton and her three granddaughters Lisa Neilson (Matthew), Edmonton, Krista and Angela Bifano in Kamloops. She leaves behind her brother Fortunato Vetere (Carmela) of Kamloops and her sisters Nina Jacoy (Joe), Vancouver and Delfina Bruno Bossio in Italy. She also leaves behind two great-grandchildren Sarah and Christopher Neilson. Maria was blessed with many nieces and nephews including Cris, Paul, Josie (Paul), Lucy, and Joe. In addition, she leaves behind a large family of nieces, nephews, cousins and relatives in both Canada and Italy. Maria is fondly remembered by her former daughter-in-law Shirley Queen, and her former son-in-law, David Leonard. Maria was born in Grimaldi, Italy on August 31st, 1924. After marrying Antonio in 1948 she immigrated to Canada to join her husband in October of 1953. The family resided in Louis Creek for three years then moved permanently to Kamloops in 1956. Maria was compassionate, caring and giving. Her granddaughters maintain that she was the best. She worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of her family, relatives, friends and neighbours. Her demeanour was always a reflection of her caring and dignity. Her neighbours will remember that Maria loved being in her garden. She enjoyed serving great Italian food to family and friends, her home was always open. She will be sadly missed by all of us. Many thanks to Dr. Terry Simpson who has been moms doctor forever, and to the caring, compassionate staff at Overlander Extended Care for all your efforts on ours and moms behalf. Prayers will be held at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 255 Nicola Street on Monday, January 26th at 7:00 p.m. The funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27th at Sacred Heart Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, should friends desire, donations could be sent to the Alzheimer Society of BC, Box 277, Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5K6 or any charity of your choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schoenings.com. Service arrangements entrusted to Schoening Funeral Service. Phone 250-374-1454