It’s with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Shifra Marcia Michalofsky Di Battista, age 60, on July 2nd in Montreal, QC. A beloved wife to Italo, loving mother to Natassja, Julian, Arianna and Maxim, cherished family member as a daughter-in-law to Bambina (nee Olivieri), sister-in-law, aunt and cousin, and loyal friend to countless others. She is predeceased by her parents, Rita (nee Wexler) and Michael Michalofsky, father-in-law, Alfiero Di Battista, and by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who she held dear in her heart.

Words don’t describe the immeasurable loss that we are feeling, and know that many of those whose lives she touched are too.

Born in 1962 in Montreal to Rita and Michael, Shifra’s love for her parents, and vice versa, was unparalleled. Though she was an only child, she grew up surrounded with the affection and company of many aunts, uncles and cousins. Shifra fondly remembered her time spent with them, and was always happy to reminisce about her loving childhood memories by sharing them with others.

In 1979, Shifra met her future husband, Italo, a charismatic and outgoing individual who she called her soulmate. They spent 44 years together, and would have celebrated their 40th anniversary next year after being married in 1984. Their unique love for each other was present throughout their adventurous and spontaneous relationship and continued when they started their family, welcoming four beautiful and intelligent kids over the years.

In 1996, Shifra and Italo moved to Calgary, AB with their daughter Natassja and Shifra’s parents, known affectionately as Bubby and Zadie. While they thought it would be a temporary move, a couple years soon turned into almost 20, where they would welcome Julian, Arianna and Maxim, which completed their family. They loved the city their children called home, and enjoyed exploring the surrounding areas, taking frequent day trips to the Rocky Mountains. Shifra’s favourite spot was Moraine Lake, where she loved the turquoise blue colour of the water. Shifra and Italo created an environment where their friends, and their children’s friends, could call home, and Shifra was affectionately known as a ‘second mom’ to many. While raising a family, Shifra found time to give back to the community by volunteering for her neighbourhood association, countless school field trips, and after school activities for her kids. Shifra was driven and passionate in her work life, she always went above and beyond expectations. Over the years she had met many wonderful colleagues and clients who have since turned into friends.

In 2015, after almost 20 years out West, Shifra and Italo moved back to Montreal, QC, where they settled in Saint-Lazare - a dream to live close to the city, but surrounded by nature. Here they were able to build a life in the city they grew up in, but with their children. They would find that many things had changed, but over these past eight years, they appreciated being able to spend time with family and reconnect with old and new friends.

Shifra never failed to leave a mark on those she met. Her kind heartedness and charisma allowed her to make friends everywhere she went - a special gift of life that her children admire greatly in both their parents. Shifra was kind, generous, and funny, and a constant anchor and support to those who were lucky enough to have her in their lives. Her strength, wisdom and courage was her greatest superpower. Shifra was a well known cat lover, and she leaves behind four beautiful cats who miss her already; she loved being surrounded by books and reading everything and anything. Shifra was always up to date on current worldwide events, had an interest in activism, and was never shy to share her opinion on different topics. Her wealth of knowledge that she shared with her family and friends every day will be greatly missed. Shifra enjoyed listening to a variety of music and a favourite pastime was dancing in the kitchen while cooking with her music blasting. Shifra’s morning routine of having a cup of coffee and catching up on the news is a comforting memory that her family will hold dear in their heart forever.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Monday July 10th at the Belvedere Funeral Complex, beginning with visitation at 11am, ceremony at 1pm, and burial immediately following. A shiva/reception will take place following the burial at our home in Saint-Lazare until 7pm. In memory of Shifra, please wear something you are comfortable in, as there is no obligation to wear black. We’d also like to thank those who have supported our family in the wake of this tragic news.

Please note that the ceremony will also be viewable online at the following link: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/76672.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting our family during this very difficult time. An in Memoriam Fund has been created in order to help cover funeral expenses, household costs, and to provide support for continuing education for Maxim and Arianna. In the future, it is also our hope to create a foundation that will honour Shifra’s legacy: https://everloved.com/life-of/shifra-michalofsky-di-battista/