Obituary of Alvina Elizabeth Duarte-Pedrosa

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Alvina Elizabeth Duarte-Pedrosa, known professionally as Dr. A.E. Nett and better known to friends and family as "Tussy". She passed away on September 6, 2013 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre at the age of 80. Tussy was born on December 9, 1932 in Provost, Alberta to proud parents, Peter & Regina Nett. From an early age, she displayed an aptitude for learning and caring for others. In her younger days, it was said that she had read every book in Provost. She received her B.Sc in Biochemistry and Medical Degree from the University of Alberta and was a member of the Pi Beta Phi fraternity. As one of the female pioneers in her profession, she had a long distinguished career as a physician specializing in the treatment of cancer. She co-founded The Breast Center in Edmonton and the Alberta Breast Cancer Foundation (now a national organization - the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation). Tussy married Armando Duarte-Pedrosa in 1964 and she was blessed with three wonderful children whom she cherished above all else. She instilled in them the importance of an education and the rewards of hard work, persistence and generosity. Her strength of character helped her manage the trials of single-parenthood and a challenging career. Throughout her life, her home was always graciously open to friends and family. Tussy had a passion for chocolate, games of chance, the opera and cheering on her favourite sports teams and players. She loved dining out and traveling, enough to earn her the title of "Globe-Trotting Granny". Her life was full with accomplishments and blessings, trials and tribulations and she touched the hearts of all who knew her. She is survived by her children, Anita (Darcy) Curle of Redwood Meadows, AB, Ann (Jonli) Alo of Kauai, Hawaii and Michael (Dr. Leslie Garland) Duarte-Pedrosa of Blairmore, AB; her grandchildren, Dylan & Ryan Curle, Lani & Malia Alo and Stephanie & Calvin Duarte-Pedrosa; her siblings, David Nett, Wilfred (Edith) Nett, Don (Betty) Nett, Austin (Inge) Nett and Josephine Morrell; and her numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was predeceased by her father, Peter Nett; her mother, Regina Nett (nee: Gramlich); and her siblings, Jake Nett, Edwin Nett, Viola Gilmer and Marion Reinhart. Donations in memory of Tussy Duarte-Pedrosa or Dr. Alvina E. Nett may be directed towards the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.