1934-2025
“La Famiglia E Tutto”
Pietro Piraino died at home in his 91st year, surrounded by memories representing his beloved motto, “La famiglia e tutto” (family is everything). His loving wife of 67 years, Nilde, held his hand as he whispered his final thoughts on love. His brother, Giuseppe Piraino, stood by their side and cared for him.
His love will be cherished by his children, Renata Solski (John), Rolando Piraino (Kim), Patty Greve (Rob), and Guido Piraino (Dina). Forever loved and admired by his grandchildren, Erika (Brian), Alexander (Paige), and Lauren Solski, Anastasia Denneny (Brian), Peter and Danielle Greve (Jamie), and Anthony, Marina, and Angelina Piraino. Most adored great-grandfather of Owen, William, Aaron, Everett, and Grace.
Pietro was reunited with his mother, Marietta Guttadauro, and father, Francesco Piraino. Also waiting for Pietro were his siblings, Franco, Lillo, Ignazio, and Maria Piraino. Welcoming him with open arms were his parents-in-law, Emilia and Salvatore Guzzo, brothers-in-law Guido, Rolando, and Daniele Guzzo (Ada), along with his favourite cousin, Rosalia DiVittorio.
Pietro was born in Cerda, Sicily on March 6, 1934. He was a mild-mannered, quiet man who survived World War II. As a child, he roamed the streets of his small town playing with friends. He was spoiled daily by his grandmother with treats, which may explain his love for pocket candy throughout his life. He was a hard worker, taking any job he could find. After Grade 5, Pietro began picking olives for 200 lire a day - the cost of a kilo of bread or pasta. His pay helped his mother manage a house of five children, and he took pride in sharing all that he had. Pietro didn’t share these stories to draw sympathy, but to encourage us to be proud of our roots, while also striving to make a better life.
Pietro was the first nurse in the family and trained as a paramedic in the army. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the funds to continue his studies, but he later saw two family members become nurses and one attend medical school. His dream was to come to Canada and make a better life for his children, which he accomplished. Pietro was an avid gardener and often lent out his green thumb to those with gardens. He worked at Algoma Contractors and Algoma Steel, and his generosity extended to family, friends, and anyone needing a helping hand. Pietro had many mottos, including “No money, no funny!” His sense of budgeting always ensured there was enough money for a weekly trip to the ice cream store with his children. In public, many people stopped to talk to him, like a celebrity of Sault Ste. Marie.
Pietro instilled in us a love for learning, the meaning of hard work, and to always be hopeful. He loved to write songs and sing, tell stories, and listen to the world news. His greatest hobby was watching his family grow. Many years ago, a fortune teller predicted that he would die a rich man, which he did. He was rich in the love that he inspired us to carry. Pietro’s legacy will live in our hearts, and his dreams will be passed on to his future generations.
We extend our deepest gratitude to RPN Teresa Wslosky, Paramed, and RN Morgan Deluca at S.A.H., whose empathy and care brought comfort during a challenging time. We are profoundly grateful to Bayshore PSWs Amanda, Gina, Neehtu, Sinu, Sterling, Varna, and Liz for their exceptional daily support. We also want to express our sincere thanks to Dr. Booth, Dr. Spadafora, and Dr. Reich for their outstanding patient commitment. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to paramedics Blake Mitchell and James Hurley for their professional and compassionate care.
A private family celebration of life was held on March 1, 2025, at the O’Sullivan Funeral Home. Memorial donations can be made to SAHF Palliative Care Fund, SAHF Cancer Care Fund or Heart and Stroke (all payable online or by cheque).
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family.
Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).