February 10, 1918 – May 28, 2018
at the age of 100 years.
A celebration of Virginia’s life will take place on Thursday June 14th from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Schubert Centre 3505-30th Avenue, Vernon B.C.
“A Grand Lady”
With an ageless attitude, a great zest for life, a generous nature, and passion for music and people, Virginia Orlando lived her 100 years to the fullest. A long-time resident of Rossland, Trail, and Vernon BC, Virginia passed away peacefully at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital on May 28, 2018.
Virginia was born to her parents James and Julia Altomare on February 10, 1918 at Natal, BC. She was an optimistic “people person” who loved her family very much. Her family always delighted in get togethers where her Italian cooking was centre stage. Music was an integral part of her life having played piano for some eighty years with several dance bands in Natal, Rossland, and Trail. Virginia touched many lives and brought so much joy and happiness by volunteering her piano playing at many senior old age facilities. She received recognition from the City of Trail for her many years of volunteer services. Virginia was also a 67 year member of the Rossland/Trail Eagles Fraternity. During her tenure in Vernon, Virginia enjoyed attending and playing piano for afternoon dances at the Schubert Centre.
Virginia was predeceased by her husbands Carl Picco and Fred Orlando, son Norman Picco, sisters Rose Ham and Teresa Qualtieri, and brother Joseph Altomare.
Virginia is survived by her son Raymon (Deanna) Picco of Vernon, BC, granddaughters Nicole (Robert) Spenst of Vernon, BC, Tracy (Scott) Kelly of Cold Lake, AB, Lori (Mike) Hallowes of Whitecourt, AB, and Natalie (Daniel) Riggs of Tihoi New Zealand. Great grandchildren Justin (Melissa) Spenst of Vernon, BC, Tanner and Austin Hallowes of Whitecourt, AB, and Tyson and Sienna Riggs of Tihoi New Zealand. Great great granddaughter Sadie Spenst of Vernon, BC.
Virginia will be sadly missed but will be forever in our hearts. Family members wish to thank Dr. Louis Boucher and staff at the Vernon hospital for the wonderful care provided over the years.
A celebration of Virginia’s life will take place on Thursday June 14th from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Schubert Centre 3505-30th Avenue, Vernon B.C. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the Heart and Stroke Fund in memory of Virginia.
Dear Ray and family,
So sorry to hear about your mum, but she lived a full, active and happy life. I can still picture her sitting in front of a piano with a smile on her face. Keep the memories close to your heart.
Sincerely,
Darlene Soligo
Dear Raymon & Deanna,
I was saddened to see that Virgie had passed away. I’m glad to see that you had her with you for 100 years.
My memories of Virgie (believe it) goes back to the mid 1950s at the Butcheteria in Rossland & at the piano at seniors luncheons. She was a talent. My memory of Raymon was also mid 50s in Rossland when he would yell for a pass in shinny & you knew he wouldnt pass it back. My condolences Ray….
Virgie was a special lady and will be missed. Leading a senior choir group singing or playing the piano in a group or by herself Virgie was always full of music.
I am sure in heaven there is a group gathered around the piano listening to Virgie playing.
Thoughts and prayer to the family. Willa, Thomas and the Seymour family.