Obituary of Nello Gri

Nello Gri 1932 - 2018 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Nello Gri. Surrounded by family and in the loving arms of his wife of 60 years, Velia, Nello passed four days shy of his 86th birthday. Nello was born on February 21, 1932 in San Vito al Tagliamento province in Udine, Italy. He spent his youth in Valvasone, Udine, Italy. He came to Canada in April 1954, landing in Halifax on Pier 21 before making the journey across Canada to settle in Cranbrook, BC. Shortly after arriving, Nello met Velia and together they built their home and raised a family. He worked for the local sawmill for 38 years before retiring to spend more time bowling, playing bocce, fishing, and camping with family and friends. Nello is survived by his wife Velia, children Dina Gri (Jim), Annamarie Gray (Tom), Jon Gri (Danielle), his cherished grandchildren, Megan Pimm (Matt) of New Zealand, Terri Gray (Aaron) of Prince George, Nicole Gray (Ben) of Cranbrook, Adriana Ingram of Lethbridge, Marcus and Nola Gri of Cranbrook. He also leaves to grieve his sister Antonietta Rovere of Italy, brothers Noe Gri of Vancouver and Guido Gri of Cranbrook, along with many nieces and nephews both in Canada and Italy. Nello was predeceased by son David, parents Angelo and Angela Gri, brothers David and Pietro Gri and his sister Maria Bertoia. The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses and health care professionals at EKRH for taking exceptional care of Nello. A special thank you to Dr Amstutz and Dr Lefebvre. The funeral service for Nello will be held at St Mary's Catholic Church in Cranbrook on Saturday, February 24 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations are made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com