Ernesta Volpatti (nee Montemurro) passed away peacefully on December 3, 2015 at the age of 96 years. She was born in Cellara, Italy on November 1, 1919 to parents Giulio and Marietta Montemurro.
In 1929, Ernesta immigrated to Canada with her parents, brothers Generino and Mario, and her sister Lynda. Within a few years of settling in Canada, Ernesta welcomed 2 more sisters; Agatha and Loretta, and a brother Guido. The 4 Montemurro sisters grew up sharing a very close bond that lasted throughout their lives. Ernesta, being the eldest daughter, was always a big help to her mother. She was a very friendly and most welcoming person. Her welcome always included “Have you eaten?” and “Are you hungry?”
From a young age, Ernesta embodied an entrepreneurial spirit, leaving home with a friend at an early age to start a coffee shop in Kimberley, which, needless to say, precipitated a major family crisis! “How do we get her home?” Family members went to Kimberley and convinced her to return … but that didn’t hold a determined Ernesta back for too long. The first chance she got, she bought the ownership of a clothing store in Natal! Ernesta, with the help of her husband Leno (Guchy), ended up building a new store which became quite successful!
Guchy and Ernesta had quite the love story; a love-at-first-sight encounter where she declared “I know I will marry that guy someday!” Within 2 years, on November 5, 1943, the couple exchanged wedding vows in the presence of family and friends. To Ernesta’s last breath they remained deeply in love and completely devoted to one another; often described as “being attached to each other like two sides of a dime.” They were truly blessed …..
Ernesta enjoyed playing cards and other board games. She liked gardening and cooking, and being outdoors – picking berries, mushrooms, and making wine, did a little painting and was always proud to show it off. Ernesta also did some travelling to Vegas and California where she enjoyed going to Casinos.
Ernesta is survived by her beloved husband of 72 years, Guchy Volpatti and her brother Guido Montemurro as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, brothers Generino and Mario, and sisters Lynda, Agatha, and Loretta.
Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.