Salam (Sally) Issa

“The Lord Giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21)

It is with shattered hearts that we announce the passing of SALAM (Sally) SAIKALEY ISSA who is now resting in the arms of the Lord. She fell asleep on Tuesday April 1, 2025, at the age of 74. 

Remarkable wife of the late Elias George Issa. Incredible and loving mother to Linda (Erik) and Paul. Devoted daughter to the late Toufic Saikaley and Linda Saikaley. Sassy sister to Sam, Nadia (Roger), Simon (Souad), Bill and Robert (Nadine). Amazing aunt to Ryan, Mathew, Ashley, and all the nieces and nephews.  Beloved sister-in-law to the late Nawal (Mike Khouri), Amal Issa, Fadia (Raja Tenn), Farial Issa, Joseph (Denise Rizk), Josephine (Mike Khouri), Fadi (Karolyn Cassidy) and Myra Zougheb.

Her love story began in 1973 when Salam returned to Lebanon where she met her future loving, young, and handsome army officer – Elias Georges Issa. Three months later, now back in Canada, Elias and Salam, embarked on a journey that lasted 45 years together. They became business owners serving Ottawa residents with fresh foods, generous hospitality and a sense of community for over 25 years.

Their family grew by two and they moved into their forever home. Salam created a second home to the Northdale crew where she became a second mom feeding those who walked through her front door and putting up with their shenanigans. Salam filled her soul by spending time with and serving her family, watching her international soap operas, growing flower gardens, and baking delectable cheesecakes and rum cakes for those she loved. 

Salam is a beautiful example for all of us to live by and to serve our loved ones with a slice of life and always cake!

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, April 4, 2025, between 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 2975 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 A.M. The internment will take place at Beechwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers and for those wishing, donations to St. Elias Cathedral or Ottawa Cancer Foundation, are appreciated.