RANTUCCI, Elmo Jeno

August 11, 1935 — July 8, 2026

It is with both heavy hearts and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Elmo Rantucci, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, man of faith, and lifelong resident of Kelowna, British Columbia.

Elmo was born on August 11, 1935, in Kelowna, BC, to immigrant parents Ida and Carmen Rantucci, from San Potito, Abruzzo, Italy. Raised in the north end of Kelowna on Bay Avenue, he grew up with a deep appreciation for family, community, the outdoors, and his Italian heritage. He attended Kelowna Central School and graduated from Kelowna Senior Secondary School.

After graduating, Elmo began his career as a trained lithographer and worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company. He later became a property appraiser for the City of Kelowna before joining the BC Assessment Authority, where he devoted 30 years until his retirement in 1995. Throughout his career, he was highly respected by all who worked with him for his honesty, integrity, and professionalism. Elmo maintained many friendships with colleagues long after his retirement from public service.

A central part of Elmo’s life was his marriage to the love of his life, Emma Rantucci. Together they shared over 65 years of marriage in North Glenmore on Sexsmith Road, where they lived on their farm. Elmo enjoyed gardening and farming, and he found great joy in nature and the outdoors. He took pride in working the land and found peace in God’s creation. Some of his happiest memories were made with family at their cottage in Joe Rich along Mission Creek. He remained active throughout his life, enjoying cross-country skiing in the McCulloch area until the age of 85, skating at Memorial Arena and Stuart Park, and spending time with friends and family.

Elmo’s life was shaped by his strong faith and his commitment to community. A lifelong Roman Catholic, he attended St. Pius X Church for most of his life and lived his beliefs through kindness, humility, and compassion. He served others with a generous spirit and was a lifetime honorary member of the Knights of Columbus. Elmo was also a longtime member of the Kelowna Canadian Italian Club, where he valued the fellowship and traditions of the Italian community. Proud to be part of one of Kelowna’s pioneer Italian families, Elmo maintained close relationships with his extended family, especially the Ciancone, Ciaccia and Turri families, and spent countless hours with them over the years. His Italian heritage was an important part of who he was, and he carried it with great pride throughout his life.

Elmo was also a passionate sports fan and a loyal supporter of the Kelowna Rockets. He especially treasured watching his grandchildren play hockey. Above all, he was happiest when surrounded by family, whether sharing meals, celebrating traditions, or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Elmo was predeceased by his beloved parents, Ida and Carmen Rantucci; his brothers, Romolo Rantucci (Evelyn) and Moroldo Rantucci (Carol); and his sister, Zena Loretto (Jack). He leaves behind his loving wife, Emma; his sons, Robert (Tanis), Peter (Andrea), and Chris (Patricia); and his cherished grandchildren, Jonathon, Justin, and Gabriel Rantucci, who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his nephews, Renny Rantucci (Linda); Reg Rantucci, Peter Loretto (Tanya), and John Vaccaro (Cheryl), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss his gentle spirit and quiet strength.

Those who knew Elmo will remember him as a true gentleman, a devoted family man, a man of God, and someone who never gave up on those he loved. His quiet kindness, generous heart, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for his family will remain an enduring legacy for generations to come.

The family wishes to thank all those who cared for Elmo with compassion and kindness. Elmo touched so many lives, as evidenced by the many visitors who came to see him during his short stay at both Cottonwoods and Kelowna Hospice over the past few weeks. A special thank you to Lia Sambrielaz for your support and kindness; it meant a great deal to Elmo and his family to have you.  We would also like to thank Dr. Bielby for his care of Elmo for the past few years and the staff at Kelowna Hospice who walked beside us during Elmo’s final days.

A Funeral Mass and celebration of Elmo’s life will be held at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1077 Fuller Ave, Kelowna, BC, on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at the Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, 1991 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna, BC, Pioneer section, followed by a reception at the church. The service will be Livestreamed for those unable to attend in person (see below).

All donations in Elmo’s memory may be made to St Vincent de Paul at St Pius X Church via e-transfer to spxssvp2024@gmail.com, reflecting both his faith and supporting the local community he loved.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM provided by St. Pius X Catholic Church: