How do you say good bye to your parents that gave you life, the one’s that support and guide you through every milestone, challenge and success.
Our hearts are broken as we share the unexpected but peaceful passing of our devoted loving husband, father, father-in-law and nonno, Luigi, at his home on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the ripe young age of 95 (he always said he felt 25). God called on him that night to reunite with his wife of 56 years, Maria (Filosa), the love of his life, who passed away 4 years ago. Cherished father of Frank (Liliana Zappacosta) and Angela Grandinetti (Gerry). Treasured and adored grandfather of Marcus and Adam; Kayla, Brandon and Sierra Grandinetti.
Luigi was born in Paterno Calabro, Cosenza, Italy on June 18, 1926 to the late Francesco and Angelina Sacchetta. Brother of Gaetano (Angelina) of Bristol, Connecticut; the late Michele (late Lorraine); late Marietta Collia (late Luigi) of Sault, Michigan; late Peppina Lepore (late Frank); late Adolfo; late Mario. Son-in-law of the late Luigi and Antonietta Filosa. Brother-in-law of the late Salvatore Filosa, late Adina DeRose (late Luigi), late Arturo Filosa, all of Bristol, Connecticut. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and friends.
After a 2 year stint in the army in Rome, Luigi was recruited to come to Ontario to build the rail road track from Orillia to Thunder Bay. In 1951, at the age of 24, leaving his parents and siblings behind, he came to Canada by ship, with nothing, as he would say, in search of a better life. In 1955, he came to work at Algoma Steel and would retire 30 years later. In 1961 Luigi sent for our mom, who he had grown up with, to come to Canada to marry, have a family, build a new home with a huge garden, and live happily ever after.
Luigi was a strong, proud, generous, caring family man who taught us all about respect, pride, love and family. He never waivered in his beliefs and opinions, but was always so supportive and encouraging in all that his children and grandchildren wanted to do. He was always there for us unconditionally. He was not big on church and prayer, but he had his own way of embracing faith and God. His grandchildren were his pride and joy always there to cheer them on from the side lines whether it be hockey, soccer, football or just spending family time or sharing meals. There was always a life lesson to be shared. Luigi felt so proud and happy to see his grandchildren smile from his endless supply of donuts, genettis, cupcakes and butter tarts. For years, our dad shared the fruits of his passion from his garden with his family, neighbours and friends. His grandchildren would help pick the last of the tomatoes at the end of the season.
Luigi was a happy, friendly man who, with our mom, enjoyed visiting with amici and paesani (friends from the old country) through the years. He loved to waltz and polka to Italian music with our mom at weddings and parties. His Saturday night ritual was Hockey Night in Canada with roasted chestnuts while cheering on the Montreal Canadiens.
After our mom’s passing, Luigi enjoyed frequenting the restaurant, Cups and Cones, in the Market Mall. A huge thank you to Mark and Silvia Fera and staff, for all your TLC that made our dad feel so special and at home. We are truly grateful. Luigi was truly blessed with a long, full, happy, healthy life. He felt so blessed to still be independent and able to drive his little dark red Ford Ranger truck into his 95th year. We feel so fortunate to have had our dad with us this long.
Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Social distancing and the use of masks is mandatory. The use of hand sanitizer is appreciated. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Parish on Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Boguslaw Jaroszek officiating. Covid regulations apply, with a maximum of 35 attendees. Entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family. www.northwoodfuneral.com
Ti sentiremo sempre vicino!!
We love you and miss you nonno!!