D’IPPOLITO, Silvano “Sal”
Posted: May 23rd, 2026
SILVANO “SAL” D’IPPOLITO 1959 ~ 2026 It is with profound sadness that the family of Silvano (Sal) Frank D’Ippolito announce his sudden passing at home in Lethbridge, on the evening of May 11, 2026, at the age of 66 years.
Silvano was born in Sessano Del Molise, Italy. He, with his parents and brother, moved to Blairmore when Silvano was 2 years old. At the age of 10 he moved to Lethbridge where he remained until his passing.
Silvano leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife, Gail D’Ippolito; son Michael D’Ippolito; daughter-in-law Jackie D’Ippolito and his treasured grandson Owen D’Ippolito, who brought endless joy and pride to his life.
Silvano is also lovingly remembered by his brother and sister-in-law Renato (Fran) D’Ippolito; brothers-in-law Lorne (Dena) Trofanenko, Daryll Trofanenko; sister-in-law Lori Schneider; nephews & nieces Alex & Luc, Pam, Lisa, Tanya, Jesse, their spouses and children, as well as many aunts & uncles, cousins, relatives, and lifelong friends.
Silvano was predeceased by his wonderful son Anthony D’Ippolito, who passed away in 2022 due to complications from diabetes; parents Pasquale & Maria D’Ippolito; parents-in-law Michael Trofanenko & Vivian Trofanenko, as well as his beloved nephews, Zach Trofanenko and Cody Schneider.
Silvano will be remembered as an amazing husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, musician, mentor, and friend. His kindness, warmth, humour, generosity, and unmistakable spirit will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta. For those attending the Celebration of Life, please dress in casual attire. Those unable to attend are warmly invited to view the livestream of the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association & The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada in memory of Silvano and Anthony.
To view the service via livestream, please visit https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituaries/Silvano-D’Ippolito
Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Though I didn’t know him personally I’m friends with Fran and Renato I’m so sorry for your loss x I know through them he was a wonderful man x God bless you are all in our thoughts and prayers from Northern Ireland
Condolences to the D’Ippolito families. Sorry to hear about Silvano, a great family man, hold your loved ones closer. Take one day at a time, you won’t forgot but time lessens the pain and memories move in to take its place. When sadness creeps in push it to the back and search for those happy times. 💞
Gail & Mike, my heart aches for your family during this extremely difficult time, hearing of Silvano and also discovering Tony had passed as well. Your family opened your home to me during my final two years at the University of Lethbridge, and although we did not remain in contact, those were two of the most impactful years of my life. I cannot think of my time at the UofL without remembering your family’s generosity and kindness to someone who was a complete stranger when I first moved in.
Since my family was so far away, you invited me to become part of yours, sharing birthdays and holidays with me at your table. Silvano was a huge part of that, and always made me feel welcome.
Such a kind and caring man. One of my favorite memories of him was one late night when I was stranded at the UofL. It was November and bus service to the university had ended early for the night while I was still on campus. I had my small emergency fund of quarters for the payphone and called home. Silvano picked up and was on his way to pick me up in less than five minutes. He didn’t mind the interruption at all, and came to my rescue. On the drive home he pranked me, because I had never experienced heated seats before. He had turned my side on, without my knowledge so my butt got hotter and hotter and I was alarmed at what was happening.
Silvano laughed so hard when he told me he had turned on my heated seat to see my reaction. I remember telling him that I thought I had crapped myself. He pranked me good and had a wonderful sense of humour. He was a powerful presence that left a positive impression.
At Christmas time, he would always give me a ride to the Greyhound and help me schlep all my luggage. Even when I told him I could take the bus or get a cab as not to bother him with it. He wouldn’t have it. He would be there to pick me up when I got back a few weeks later too. In my experience, he always wanted to help, even though there was no expectation for him to. That’s who I will always remember. A man with a huge heart and a fantastic family all around.
I am saddened by the loss and will hold you all close in my heart and prayers