December 24, 1920 – April 26, 2021
It is with profound sadness that the family of Antonio Fiacconi announce his passing on Monday, April 26th at the Trillium Queensway Hospital in Mississauga, Ontario with loved ones by his side. He was an amazing 100 years old!
Tony, as he was fondly known, was born in the beautiful seaside town of Torre di Palme in Le Marche, Italy on December 24th, 1920. He was the son of Gaetano Fiacconi and Ida Cecchini and older brother to Remo, Luigi (Maria) and Rosina (Tony). After finishing school at the age of 14, he found work in various trades – iron work, auto mechanics and welding, to mention a few – where he honed his skills to become a true master of all trades. In later years, many would seek his expert advice and assistance. Tony was always happy and eager to oblige and was determined and persistent in his approach to resolve any issues presented to him.
In 1939, at the outbreak of the Second World War, Tony was 19 and eligible for the draft, but since his skills were needed in local machine shops to produce war materials, he was not drafted until 1942. Curiously, with his skills as a budding musician, he auditioned for the Music Corps of the Italian Air Force and was offered the position of drummer. He accepted without hesitation and welcomed the opportunity to entertain troops and perform at state functions.
Tony was always attracted to Trieste, a lovely young girl from his home town and they were married in 1949. Their son, Eros, was born one year later. With work scarce after the war, Tony made the decision in 1952 to leave behind his wife and son in Italy to find work in Canada. He travelled to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario where his uncle, Enrico and his brother, Remo were already residing. He immediately found steady employment at Algoma Steel as a skilled welder. In 1955, Tony returned to Italy with the intent of starting his own business. He soon realized that the Italian economy had not recovered sufficiently to justify his stay, so he returned to Canada. The following year, he called his wife and son to join him. Shortly thereafter, he proudly designed and built his family home which became a hub for many happy gatherings over the years.
Tony was a very hard worker and often took on part-time work outside of the Algoma Steel. Most notably, he was instrumental in the welding and assembly of the Canada Goose, a popular landmark along the Trans-Canada Highway near Wawa in northern Ontario.
Tony was well-liked and well respected by his many relatives, friends and co- workers. He was always happy, positive and optimistic in his approach to life. He was a curious individual and a life-long learner and spent hours on his computer researching, messaging and Skyping, right up to the last days before his passing.
Tony was tremendously proud of his family, particularly his two grandsons and enthusiastically supported them in all their endeavours, whether in sports, music or home renovations. He was a constant presence and positive role model in their lives.
Sadly, after 47 years of marriage, his wife, Trieste, passed away in1996. He continued to live independently for many years and enjoyed travelling to visit his son and family in Mississauga. He particularly looked forward to his visits with nephew, Ermanno, his wife, Carla and their children who lovingly embraced him and welcomed him into their home for delicious meals and leisurely chats. He frequently returned to Italy for extended stays to re-connect with family and friends and to visit the grave site of his wife, Trieste.
Tony will be dearly missed by son, Eros; wife, Marsha and grandsons, Adriano and Gianmarco. He will be lovingly missed by nephew, Ermanno; wife, Carla and their extended family with whom he shared a very special bond. Tony was always appreciative of the love and support of his cousins next door, Jerry and Mario and Mary (both deceased), of his brother, Remo (deceased) and of the kindness of many friends and relatives in Sault Ste. Marie, Mississauga and Italy. He will be particularly missed by dear friends Venerina Paci (Demo deceased) and Rob, Anita, Adam and Matthew Paci.
Sincerest thanks to the Personal Support Workers and nurses who were so attentive to Tony’s care in the last while. The family was truly appreciative of their assistance and dedication.
Tony was an excellent cook and baker and treated the family to many delicious meals. He enjoyed researching new recipes on the Internet and experimenting with them. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Mississauga Food Bank would be most appreciated to assist families during these challenging times. Alternatively, a donation to Trillium Health Partners would be appreciated to acknowledge the compassionate care of staff on wing 4C at the Queensway location during Tony’s last days.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private family service will be held in early May. Once travel restrictions are lifted, Tony will be reunited with his wife, Trieste, in Torre di Palme, Italy. Rest in peace, Tony and thank you for showing us all how to age with humour, dignity and relevance.
For further information and to share online condolences please visit link below.
https://www.arbormemorial.ca/scott-mississauga/obituaries/antonio-fiacconi/65475/