ERMANNO BARONE April 7, 1941 - February 5, 2014 It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Ermanno Barone on February 5, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer. Ermanno leaves to cherish his wonderful memory: his wife, Gordana, his son, Robert (Rachel), his grandchildren, Giorgio & Stephanie, his brother Tony, sister Milvia (Tony), his nieces, Giorgia & Isabella & nephews, Victor (Ani) & Tony (Christina) & Tony Jr., his stepson Tony (Caterina) & Olivia. He was predeceased by his parents, Giorgio & Marina. Ermanno was born in Amato, Italy and immigrated to Canada in 1952 with this family. He grew up in Winnipeg where he obtained a teaching degree, but his love for the West Coast brought him to Kelowna where he & Elaine owned Happy Valley Resort in Westbank for many years. His exuberant personality led him to form some wonderful lifetime friendships both through his resort and in Palm Springs where he spent the winter months. Ermanno has an eclectic range of accomplishments from football player (having played for the St. Vital Bull Dogs), to poet (for which he won several awards), to published author, to movie producer, and property developer. Ermanno will be remembered for his contagious smile, his off-beat sense of humor and his exuberant generosity. His cup was never half full, it was always overflowing. Although he will be mourned deeply, he will always be remembered with a smile and with true love for his kind and gentle nature. Thank you to Mark & Donna for their continuous commitment and strength during this difficult time; to cousins, Carmelo & Felicia; to Willy & Wilma; to Joan & Jim; to Onofrio & Cleo; & to Pastor Jim. A big thank you to all his friends who came and called from near and far. Sincere appreciation to all of the doctors & staff on 6W at Kelowna General Hospital for the tender care and support that they provided. Your concern and compassion has been a gift to the family. Viewing will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 9:30 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2547 Hebert Rd, West Kelowna with service at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BC Cancer Foundation, Southern Interior, 399 Royal Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3. Rest in Peace Ermanno. We love you. You will be missed but your memory will be cherished forever. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting HansonsFuneral.ca