It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Rina Preley, at the age of 96, on February 13, 2025, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Rina was born in Fiume, Italy on October 11, 1928. She immigrated to Port Arthur in April 1953 to join her husband Ivo. As an immigrant she faced many challenges - a new language, a different culture, a cold climate and the absence of relatives.
Her highest priority was always the care and well-being of her family. She was a very loving, optimistic and supportive person. Despite Rina's advanced dementia she was very grateful to the staff that assisted her in the long-term care home, frequently thanking, hugging and kissing them. Rina enjoyed cooking, gardening, knitting, travelling and spending time at the Hawkeye Lake family camp.
During the last months of her life, while smiling Rina would say in Italian, "Andiamo a casa" (Let's go home) and "Andiamo a Italia" (Let's go to Italy) to her son, whom she no longer recognized, they would then embrace, bringing great comfort and joy to one other.
Rina will be sadly missed by her loving son Dan (Rita Tosolini), sister Rita, brother Ferruccio (Ivana), sister-in-law Mirella, nieces Antonella, Chiara, Marta and Paola, nephews Alberto and Gianni, many other relatives in Italy and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband Ivo, son William, brother Gianni, brothers-in-law Bruno, Edo, Pino and Vito, sisters-in-law Ita, Maria and Marta, nephews Daniele and Paolo, parents Narciso and Natalina and parents-in-law Andrea and Augusta.
Special thanks to Rita Tosolini, Mitra Abaei, Deborah Campbell, Dr. Aaron Feldstein and Dr. Teegan Trochimchuk for their loving care and compassion. The family would like to thank the staff of Hogarth Riverview Manor long-term care home.
A private Funeral Mass will be held.
In memory of Rina, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
