Obituary of Carmela Scapillati

Peacefully, with family by her side, on January 13, 2026 at the age of 89. Beloved wife of the late Nicola Scapillati. Loving mother of John Scapillati (Kristine Stolarik) and the late Tony Scapillati (late Kathy Nicolson). Cherished Nonna of Jean Scapillati (Tom Farrell), Silvia Lidbetter (Dylan Lidbetter) and Dominique Scapillati. Bisnonna to Kate, Kaleb, Ellie and Maya. Dear sister of Pasqualina Gargaro of Ottawa, the late Filomena Borsella, late Enzo Chiocchio and late Giovanni Chiocchio. Carmela was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews as well as a loving sister-law. Carmela was also “furbaby” Nonna to Hondo and Bea and many others before who always enjoyed special meatball and pasta treats when visiting.

Carmela was born in Castropignano, Italy and immigrated to Canada with her husband Nicola and young son Tony in 1956. Carmela, or known to many of you as Nonna, was an incredible cook and loved to prepare delicious meals for her family and friends. Her recipes have been handed down and her legacy will continue through the generations. She loved working in her garden and was able to grow the most beautiful flowers along with amazing vegetables with that green thumb of hers. Carmela’s garden and lawn were the envy of Iris Street. She also loved going to Carlingwood and having coffee chats with her sisters and friends. Carmela worked in numerous school cafeterias for the Ottawa School Board where she was able to make delicious and nutritious meals for many kids over the years. She was a proud, strong and fearless role model for us all.

Special thanks to caregiver and companion Stephanie Meldrum who gave such special care and companionship to Carmela over the years. The family wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and caregivers at Peter D Clark for the extraordinary and outstanding care, kindness and support during her stay at the home.

A visitation will be held at Cole Funeral Services & Pinecrest Remembrance Services,  Sunday January 18, 2026 from 3:00 to 5:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass on Monday January 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, 2340 Baseline Road, followed by interment at Pinecrest Cemetery and a reception to follow at Cole Funeral Services & Pinecrest Remembrance Services. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Parkinson Canada.