A Good Soul
I sent this email to Rob's sister after I recently learned of his passing:
Cathy
I reached out several years ago when I learned 23andme showed us as DNA cousins with a shared family connection in Italy. You put me in touch with Rob to learn more about our connection. I was shocked and saddened to learn of his death just moments ago. He and I last connected back in August of 2023 after he graciously arranged a meeting between Zio Rinaldo and I during my visit to Italy. I knew he made annual visits to the Alps followed by a visit with Zio Rinaldo and I Googled Rob's name to see his latest travels.
Rob and I never spoke, just traded emails. He shared the family history he knew from what Zio Rinaldo had researched. But in those few emails, Rob's words and actions made me feel like a member of the family and not just a fourth or fifth cousin. Unfortunately both our schedules in Italy in 2023 were off by a few days and we were not able to meet in person like we hoped. He left it by saying that we will meet on a future trip.
Well, we did but not in Italy. In May 2024, my family and I visited Banff. While there we experienced for the first time the Aurora Borealis. It was a major event that even the scientists were calling exceptional. Instead of wisps of color, the entire night sky was a vibrant light show. Reading about Rob's life, his love of the mountains and what I experienced in our brief email exchange, I have to believe Rob was a part of our experience that night.
There is an old Italian expression used when the name of the departed is mentioned..... Rob Coppollilo, un buon' anima. Rob Coppollilo, a good soul.
My heartfelt condolences to you, Rob's wife and children
Jim LaRegina