On behalf of all my family, and with deep sadness, I announce the passing of my beautiful wife and soulmate Liliana Ciddio. Lily was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer over 2 1/2 years ago. Those who knew Lily could surely understand how heartbreaking this was. She defied the odds and lived those 2 1/2 years to the fullest.
Lily grew up on Secord Street where she met her best friends for life - Maria Costanzo and Sandra Buffone. This was an enduring friendship which lasted their entire lives. Lily grew up under the guidance of her loving parents who were Italian immigrants. The children were taught the importance of respect, love, empathy, and hard work. These teachings proved to be pivotal during her life and lead her to her teaching profession. Lily obtained an Honours Degree in Fine Arts, a Psychology degree and many other courses of ongoing education. Lily taught high school for over 20 years. Early in her career, she designed a Philosophy course for Hillcrest High School which was a much appreciated program by faculty and students alike. She then taught Art at Hammarskjold High School and Churchill. Her last assignment was at Westgate High School teaching Art and Culinary – something she excelled at and thoroughly enjoyed. On her lunch breaks, her classroom would often fill with students as she always kept an open door for them. Her relationship with her students led to a significant increase in enrolment in the Culinary program.
Lily and I loved to travel during our 32 years together. So many concerts, museums, galleries and a passion for vintage art and thrift store treasures can be seen throughout our home. We enjoyed drives out to the country where Lily would paint while I napped. One of our favourite places to visit was Grand Marais. It was our home away from home. A short drive to the Fisherman’s Picnic, art festivals, family fun on the beach and total relaxation. On our frequent visits to Grand Marais, Lily, Robbie and I would pick up a handful of beach glass. We collected so much over the years that we amassed a 15 pound jar of memories. Living in the moment was very important to us.
Lily was a spiritual person and loved God. This love grew stronger over the years. Shortly after her diagnosis family and friends came to our house to pray for her. On one occasion, during the middle of the prayers, a wild wind came out of nowhere and then stopped as abruptly as it had started. With tears in our eyes we had all felt the power of prayer, the love of family and friends and the strength and love of God.
Lily and I were married on June 24th, 2000 where I surprised her with a rendition of “Harvest Moon” with the band. Lily was brought to tears of joy. 23 years later I would sing the same song at Kaitlyn’s (our niece) and Tyler’s wedding where Lily danced with her brother Arthur and the tears of love returned.
On February 13th, 2004 our lives were enriched when our son Robbie was born. Lily was so proud of Robbie. He was the love of her life. She loved his individuality, his brilliant mind, his love of life, his kindness and his love of family.
As Lily’s husband and soulmate, I will treasure those 32 years together that went by way too fast. Lily’s courage and strength through adversity will carry my son and I forward. We are forever grateful to her family and friends for their constant, caring support.
Lily is survived by her husband, Bob Lorkowski, son Robbie (Karise), her siblings Marisa (Keith), Silvana (Colin), Arthur (Maria), Julia (Henry), Paolo Francella (Trudy), Sister-in-law Tammy (Ralph), Nieces and Nephews Lauren (Jason), Alex (Brennan), Kaitlyn (Tyler), Michelle (Patrick), Rebecca, Michael (Nicole), Tessa (Lei), Chelsea (Mark), Dustin (Sara), Liam (Amanda), Evan, Albert Floreancig, Ryan Green, many great nieces and nephews, our best friends Robert and Jenn McKenzie and her dog-like cat, Pheobe. She was predeceased by her parents Arturo and Michelina Ciddio and her father-in-law and mother-in-law Alex and Maude Lorkowski.
We would like to give thanks for the amazing and compassionate care we received from Dr. Chan, Dr Simpson, Dr Edwards and all of the nurses and staff at the TBRHSC Cancer Centre. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in Lily’s memory to the Northern Cancer Fund. We will be starting a scholarship fund for promising artists in need of financial assistance on Lily’s behalf. She truly loved her students and loved teaching and mentoring them.
Lily’s celebration of life will take place on Sunday, November 3rd at the DaVinci Centre from 1 to 4pm where we can share our favourite memories of Lily.
You are still with us my love.
I close my eyes and look at you
I’ll be standing by your side
In between the sea, deep blue
And God’s sheltering sky
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
