Remembering Sam Loschiavo, entomologist and proud Italian-Canadian
Alumnus co-founded Winnipeg’s Folklorama
The University of Manitoba mourns the death of Dr. Sam Loschiavo, C.M. [BSc/46, MSc/50, PhD/64], insect biologist and community volunteer, who died April 9 at age 93.
Dr. Sam Loschiavo.
Loschiavo carried out vital research on grain insects that helped improve the storage and quality of Canadian cereals consumed worldwide. As president of the Entomological Society of Canada, and its Manitoba chapter, he advised countless Canadian farmers on insect infestations and grain spoilage.
“Sam was a great entomologist and invented an insect probe which is used globally to capture insects inside stored grains,” said Dr. Digvir Jayas, U of M’s vice-president, research and international.
The son of Italian immigrants, Loschiavo was proud of his heritage. He helped found the Italian Canadian League of Manitoba as well as Folklorama – Canada’s longest-running multicultural festival – besides volunteering with many other community groups. He also was a friend of the University of Manitoba, supporting students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scientists.
In 2000, Loschiavo was named a member of the Order of Canada for his scientific and cultural contributions.