GOBBATO, Milena

April 28, 1929 — March 14, 2022

Milena Gobbato went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 13, 2022. She is survived by her siblings Mario, Anna, and Carmella; her daughter-in-law, Randi Gobbato; her granddaughters and their families; Miranda (Nathan, Zachary, and Nicholas), Rachela (Jay), Sofia (Harley). She was predeceased by her son Severino, her husband Tito, her parents Maria and Antonio Zanatta, and her siblings Feruccio and Elio.

Milena was born in Camalò, Italy on April 28, 1929, and grew up as the matriarch of her 5 siblings. She left Italy in 1957 to join her husband in Vancouver so they could start a new life with their son, Severino. Milena made a career for herself as a dry cleaner, seamstress and ran an integral part of the business for many years. She got her driver’s license in her late 30s and continued to drive until she was 80. She was very proud of her ticket-free record. In 1984 Milena and Tito built a house of their own in Surrey, where they ran a hobby farm, planted vineyards, and cultivated the most beautiful gardens. In 1992 Tito passed away, and Milena invited Sev and the family to move into their home. She helped raise her grandchildren, cooked authentic Italian meals, and was never afraid to get her hands dirty. Family was very important to her and she loved being involved in her family’s lives.

Milena was smart, loving, creative, and always wanted the best for her family. She loved her afternoon french vanilla coffee and wafer cookies, and always found comfort in her garden. She was a gracious hostess, and always knew how to make guests feel welcome. Her favourite phrase was “Life-a Life-a.” It was her way of saying ‘Sometimes life just goes like this.’ In 2016, Sev, Randi, & Milena moved to Kelowna. She started each day with quiet devotionals at her desk, and would later sit on her shaded patio, waving at neighbors and taking in the beautiful Okanagan Lake view. Her senior years were peaceful. She loved spending her time at home and always looked forward to visits from family and friends.

At 92 Milena passed away peacefully and painlessly in Kelowna General Hospital, and she left behind a legacy that inspires many. She had strong faith, worked hard, stayed positive, and had a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. Every time a flower blooms, she is there, reminding us that life is precious.

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