April 27, 1949 - June 10, 2025
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Federico (Fred) Romano on June 10th, 2025 at Poplar Ridge, with his family lovingly by his side, after a lengthy illness. Fred was 76 years old.
Fred was born on April 27th, 1949, in Santo Stefano del Sole, Italy, to Adamo and Dorina Romano. In 1953, at the age of four, he immigrated to Trail, BC, with his mother and sister, reuniting with his father who had arrived earlier to establish their new life in Canada.
Fred graduated from J.L. Crowe Secondary School in 1967 and continued his education at Selkirk College, the University of Victoria, and BCIT, where he graduated in Business Administration and obtained a CGA diploma. He began his professional career with West Kootenay Power and, after seven years, joined Cominco as a Cost Analyst in the Roasters Department, where he worked for 30 years until his retirement.
In his youth, Fred played baseball with the Snappy Service team, where he met some of his closest and longest-standing friends. He was an avid skier and spent many winter days on the slopes of Red Mountain. Fred remained deeply involved in his community throughout his life. He served as President of Trail Commercial Softball league for 12 years, President of Trail Little League for 15 years and coached countless young players through the minor leagues. He also served as a City of Trail Councillor for 18 years, sitting on various committees including recreation, finance, and the Regional District.
Fred was a passionate sports enthusiast. He was a lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays, and a proud season ticket holder for the Trail Smoke Eaters.
Fred was proud of his Italian heritage and served on the executive of the Colombo Lodge. One of his proudest accomplishments was creating a map of the Gulch, documenting the homes and families who lived there in the 1950s—a project that is now displayed in the Colombo Lodge Park.
Fred was a devoted family man. He cherished time spent with his loved ones, always putting family first and showing up with unwavering support, warmth, and care. He had a gift for always making us laugh and telling stories—moments that brought everyone closer and will be remembered with a smile. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Lynn, and their children: Adam (Kim) Romano, Leah (Chris) Spitkoski, and Laura (Jay) Halifax. His five grandchildren—Hannah Romano, Jayci and Bennet Halifax, and Gino and Jordi Spitkoski—were the joy of his life and held a very special place in his heart.
He is also survived by his sister Maria Leaden, his sisters-in-law Shauna Dimock and Gloria (Grant) Byington, brother-in-law Ron (Sandy) Dimock, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and family in Italy.
Fred was predeceased by his parents, his in-laws, and his brothers-in-law John Leaden and Rick Dimock.
After retirement, Fred enjoyed golfing, summers at Christina Lake, and traveling with Lynn. They also cherished time at home with their close-knit group of friends, sharing many wonderful memories together. Fred found immense joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren and took pride in each of their accomplishments.
Fred was a loving husband, father, brother, Uncle, Nonno, and friend. His legacy is one of love, commitment, and community. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and will be missed beyond measure.
Rest in peace, Fred / Dad / Nonno. We love you.
Thank you to the incredible doctors and nurses on the third floor of the hospital and at Poplar Ridge for your care, compassion, and dedication. Your kindness and professionalism made all the difference during a difficult time. We are deeply grateful.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 26th at 12:30 pm at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish with Fr. Xaviour Mulakkampilli Chakku, CMI, Celebrant. Fred will be laid to rest in the Columbarium at Mountain View Cemetery. Sarah Stevens of Clark's Funeral Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, donations in Fred's memory may be made to the Greater Trail Hospice Society / Dementia Project at #7-1500 Columbia Avenue, Trail, BC V1R 1K3 or to Poplar Ridge Pavilion at 1200 Hospital Bench, Trail, BC, V1R 4M1.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family's online register at www.clarksfuneral.ca
Service Details
12:30 PM