Isa Buccini

Isa (Isotta) was born in 1915 in Calgary to parents Maria Iafolla and Guiseppie Buccini who had immigrated from Villalago, L'Aquila, Italy in 1912. She was the third of seven children, growing up in Bridgeland alongside many other first-generation Italian Canadians. Isa attended St. Angela’s School and later St. Mary’s High School.

During World War II, Isa served in the Royal Canadian Air Force. After the war, she worked at the Unemployment Commission, but found the job unexciting and unchallenging. Determined to pursue something more meaningful, she enrolled in a six-week police training course—the same one taken by male recruits.

In 1949, Isa became the first Italian woman and one of only four policewomen in Calgary to patrol the streets and bars of the city's east end. Her duties included monitoring bars, locating runaways, and apprehending pickpockets and purse snatchers. She thrived on the challenge and excitement of police work, finding her greatest fulfillment in helping the homeless, street-involved girls, and juveniles.

After 20 years of service, Isa retired from the police force in 1969. She married a former American baseball player and moved to Chula Vista, California with him. However, the marriage ended after three years, and Isa returned to Calgary, where she worked for Canada Customs at the airport until her second retirement.

In her later years, Isa embraced her roles as a grandmother/mother figure to many nieces and nephews as the Buccini family continued to grow. She volunteered at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH), participated in activities at the Italian Club, played bingo, and enjoyed shopping.

Isa was known for her tough, stern demeanor, direct communication style, and strong voice. She was a meticulous housekeeper who insisted that everyone remove their shoes upon entering her home. Her cousin’s favorite saying was, “Non avere paura—questa ha la voce grossa ma non è cattiva,” which translates to, “Don’t be afraid—she has a loud voice but she’s not mean.” This perfectly captured Isa’s essence.

Isa passed away on October 29, 1998, at the age of 83. Her funeral was well attended, including several police officers and two of her former patrol partners. A Police Honor Guard was present, along with former Police Chief Ernie Reiner.

Isa had to work very hard to prove herself, both as an Italian and as a woman. Her trailblazing efforts helped pave the way for future generations of women in law enforcement.

Source: Family