SCORNAIENCHI, Lidia (Ammirato) - Passed away on Sunday, August 19, 2018.
Lidia was born on April 29, 1949 in the small village of Dipignano, in the Province of Cosenza, South of Italy, to her parents, Filippo Ammirato and Catina Ciardullo.
Her childhood consisted of living on a working farm, surrounded by olive trees, and animals. As a young girl, she learned from the nuns, how to crochet, knit, cross-stitch and sew.
She fell in love with and married a young man from the neighbouring village. Enzo Scornaienchi would be her husband until death parted them, over 50 years later.
With her husband, she left Italy on Feb 6, 1968 with the vision of a better life with employment opportunities in Canada. They were also expecting their first child. They arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia at Pier 21, feeling excited, nervous and not speaking a word of English. They traveled by train to Toronto's Union Station, and met with relatives who sponsored their stay in Canada.
The Danforth and Pape Avenue area was the first place Lidia called home in Canada. 19 years old and pregnant, Lidia attended classes at Brockton Public School in the evenings to learn how to speak English. All her life, she appreciated that first opportunity to learn this new language. Having very little at the time, she was thankful for the small bus allowance and learning materials she received as part of the program. This was a very rewarding step for her, and was the stepping stone for her many achievements later on.
On November 13, 1968, she had her first daughter, Sandi (White). This sweet baby would be her light and anchor when she struggled with navigating her new life, in a new country. On May 29, 1973, she welcomed her second daughter, Lolita (Standing). This smiling baby provided happiness and energy as she continued to build her life.
Lidia was a talented seamstress. With these skills, she found work at various places, and this filled her with pride.
Lidia became a Canadian Citizen in 2005.
In 2012, Lidia wrote and published a children’s book.
Lidia raised her two daughters and instilled in them values of kindness and perseverance. She taught them to be humble and be grateful for the things they have.
Sandi and Lolita, combined, would give Lidia four grand-children (Victoria, Alyssa, Olivia and Gavin). These grandchildren are her pride and joy. Lidia's love for her grandchildren was immense and provided many opportunities to enjoy ever so many special occasions with them. Each grandchild will forever remember the special way Nonna treated them and how loved they felt.
Visitation will be held at Chapel Ridge Funeral Home, Markham, Ontario on Friday, August 24th, 2018 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm. Theservice will follow at 2:00pm. Reception following the Witnessing of Cremation.
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