Obituary of Phildean Gava

GAVA, Phildean (nee Laverdiere) It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother. Peacefully surrounded by her family, on Sunday, March 20, 2016 at Albright Manor, Phildean joined the love of her life, Sergio (2014). She will be forever loved and missed by her children; Dave (Chris), Melaina (Gary), Andrea, Rick (Lori) and Steven. Loving Grandma of Krystal (Dave), Brittany, Mitchell, Garrett, Katelynn, Christian, Brianna, Trevor, Maddy, Lauren, Nathan and Xandinn. Proud Great-Grandma of William and Alexander. Dearest sister of Paul (Heather) Laverdiere, of Timmins, ON. Phildean will be greatly missed by many extended family members and good friends. She was predeceased by her parents Phil and Ardeana "Ma" Laverdiere. Born in 1939, in Timmins, Phildean came into this world with many physical challenges. Despite her handicap, Phildean accepted her differences and made the most of her life. Her strength, compassion and desire to help people paved the way for her career as a nurse. Phildean and Sergio created a loving family of five healthy children. Phil, Sergio and their children moved from Timmins to Chippawa, in 1967. Through the years of raising her children on Montcalm Cres, Phildean became "Mom" to many. Her favourite moments in life were spent with her loved ones, sitting around her kitchen table, drinking coffee and visiting. We will miss the matriarch of our family and will never forget our many wonderful memories. A special thank you to the caring staff of Albright Manor, for looking after our mom with great compassion and care during the past three years. Phildean's family will receive friends at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines on Wednesday, March 23, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A Celebration of Phildean's Life will be held in the funeral home chapel on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at 11 a.m. Following the ceremony and reception, burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery, Niagara Falls. In Phildean's early years, she received much medical help and support at Sick Kid's Hospital. As an expression of sympathy, donations given to SickKids would be appreciated. "Now it is our turn to send you off with a kiss, and here is one for your pocket."