After 101 years, 7 months and 3 days there is a little less music in Trail. Jack Vellutini passed away peacefully at 6:30 am on Wednesday, July 21, 2021
The oldest child of Florindo and Guglielmina Vellutini, Jack was born in Rossland on December 18, 1919, and lived his entire life in Trail. He was an ordinary academic student but demonstrated a quick wit and superior musical ability. Having polio as a child did not deter Jack from participating in all the activities youngsters enjoy. He was taught to be fluent in Italian (Toscano) as a boy and loved to speak his parent’s native tongue throughout his life.
In 1943, Jack married the love of his life, Lidia Sciarretta, and in 1945 their daughter, Judy, was born. For 58 years Jack and Lidia enjoyed a good life full of family events, friends, laughter, love and music. His quick wit and gentle practical jokes kept friends and family constantly amused.
In 1972 Jack and Lidia made their only trip to Italy. It was one of the highlights of his life. They made one more overseas trip to visit his brother, Bill, in London, England.
Although Jack spent 40 years working for Cominco, mostly on the paint gang, he will best be remembered for his music.
At 11 years of age, in 1930, Jack joined the Trail Maple Leaf Band where he played in the brass section and was a proud member until well into his 90’s. For years Jack played trumpet and trombone for the Serenaders, a well-known local dance band. He was also the vocalist. Weekends would find the band playing at the Christina Lake Pavilion or at numerous dances and events, many at the KP Hall. After the Serenaders Jack played trombone for a number of years with the SwingSations. Jack played this instrument until his 99th year with the Misfits, who played to appreciative audiences in the various senior homes in the region.
Sadly, Lidia passed away in 2001. Jack continued to live in the family home for another ten years before moving to an independent living facility. Two years ago he realized he needed additional care and was placed in Poplar Ridge Pavilion where he was well looked after in his final years. Jack was predeceased by his parents Florindo and Guglielmina (1963), sister, Helen Lamoureux (2016 ) and brother Bill ( 2021 ). He is survived by his daughter, Judy ( Derek ) Robinson, grandchildren, Adina ( Ron ) Thompson, Greg ( Heather ) Robinson and four great grandchildren, Nolan, Gavin and Kelan Thompson and great grandaughter, Mara Robinson all of Victoria, BC and his cousin Mario ( Alba ) Vellutini of Trail. He leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces in Canada and the United States. As his nephew, Tom Angerilli stated, “If there was a Hall of Fame for uncles, my Uncle Jack would be in it.”
The family would like to acknowledge and thank the many people who cared about Jack. The staff of Poplar Ridge Pavilion who gave compassionate and gentle care to him over his last two years. Special mention to Dr. Knox for her empathy and kindness. Our thanks to Alicia and Tim Affolter and family who made sure their visits included lots of music and love. Also our gratitude to Maria Pasin, who was Jack’s loyal and doting companion for the last five years and whose daughter, Mayla, visited him regularly and made sure he wanted for nothing. Finally thanks to our good friends, Don ( RIP ) and Jerril Matthews who checked up on Jack over the years and always stepped up when asked.
Memorial Service details will be announced once finalized. Bill Clark of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Jack Vellutini July 21st 2021..
Décès pour la Ville: Trail, Province: Colombie britanique