Sebastiano "Nello" Cultrera

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Sebastiano “Nello” Cultrera. Born on September 19, 1942, in Pachino, Sicily, to Corrado Cultrera and Francesca Cavarra. Nello spent his childhood years making many friends in Pachino, many of whom he remained close with until his passing.

Nello left Pachino and moved to Milan, where he worked for Siemens, before emigrating to Canada to pursue a different life, continuing his career as a welder. He began his Canadian journey in Toronto, where he met his wonderful wife, Sylvia. They shared a loving marriage of 56 years. Together, they moved to Calgary, with a brief time in Lethbridge, and opened several Country Style Donut franchises. They also ran various restaurants and independent donut shops, always working together as a team.

Family was everything to Nello. He took immense pride in his children, Corrado (Dawneen), Francesca (Jason Simms), and Angelo (Tammy), but his greatest joy came from his grandchildren: Jordan, Alexander & Nikolas, and Apollo & Abella. For the past twenty years, Nello dedicated himself to creating special memories with his grandchildren, from teaching them how to make wine to adorning the backyard with 12,000 lights and decorations for Christmas. Nello also loved spending time in Radium Hot Springs. There were many camping trips to Canyon Campground before the family purchased a house that everyone continues to share memories in. 

Nello deeply missed his family in Pachino. He cherished his phone calls home to speak with his brother Salvatore (Lidia) and sister Maria, and he often reminisced about his visits to see his nephew and nieces. 

Nello was known for his love of cookies and his infectious laughter, which brought joy to everyone around him. He had a special knack for making people feel loved and appreciated, always putting others before himself.

Nello was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Rinuccio and Angelo. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church (1714 14 Avenue NE) on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 11:30am with a reception to follow.

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