Jul 5, 1926 - Mar 5, 2018
The Dalla Lana family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ivo Dalla Lana.
Ivo was born and raised in Trail, BC, in a vibrant Italian community. These included his parents, Eugenio and Margherita and his sisters, Elsie and Lida. Ivo attended UBC for his undergraduate degree and did his Masters at the U of A. He then went to the University of Minnesota. There he received his Doctorate in Chemical Engineering. He worked at the University of Alberta as a professor in Chemical Engineering and had 5 sons (Gene, Eric, Tom, Steve, and John). He continued his research interests and teaching where he specialized in catalysis.
He published numerous, peer reviewed journal articles and received a number of patents for his work. He loved research and he collaborated with colleagues in England, Poland, Germany and Asia. When Ivo 'retired', he continued on as a Professor Emeritus for another decade and could be found in his research lab even on weekends.
In his youth Ivo played on both Baseball and Hockey BC provincial championship teams and in his later life he remained active. He started training with the University of Alberta Gymnastic team when his sons were members. He helped found and support the U of Agers gymnastic group. He loved working out with his friends at the gym. Ivo continued to be a U of Ager until his late 80s.
He loved to travel with his family. They traveled around North America and Europe often by trailer. The family fondly remembers their sabbatical year, when they lived in Bath, England and traveling around Europe in a VW bus visiting the family origins in Finland and Italy. His salad making was legendary and there was never any left over. One of his hobbies in the later years was watercolor painting.
Ivo and Mary were married for 61 years. He is survived by his wife Mary and sons: Eugene (Michelle), Eric (Dawn), Tom, Steve (Silia), John (Nadine).
His favourite times were spent at Kootenay Lake. He celebrated his grandchildren; his greatest pride came from his children and for them his loss is immeasurable. Dalla Lana Days at Kootenay Lake will never be the same.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life at Kootenay Lake this summer.
In lieu of flowers, please hug and tell your family, children and grandchildren what they mean to you.