Francesco Paonessa

PAONESSA, Francesco- Passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday August 3 2023 at the age of 86. Cherished husband of Angela (nee Gaglianese) of 64 years and adored father of the late Teresa Paonessa (October 2022), Stella Hutchinson (Kris Schmidt), Joe Paonessa (Heather Skulj-Free), Elio Paonessa (Annette Campbell), Joanne (David) Harris and Fran Paonessa (Roy Dewbury). Loving Nonno to Ashlee Hutchinson, Jessica Hutchinson, Luke Hutchinson, Matthew Harris, Francesco Harris, Brandin Paonessa, Joey Paonessa, Laura Paonessa, Clarisa Paonessa and Joshua Paonessa. Francesco is survived by his sisters Titina and Rosetta, predeceased by his parents Tommaso and Teresa Paonessa, siblings Giuseppino, Cesare, Luigina and in-laws Giuseppina, Giovanni, Domenico, Giuseppe, Luigi, Phillipo, Maria and Victoria. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins. In 1966, Francesco along with his wife, immigrated from Italy with four small children and a suitcase. He was a very strong, intelligent, generous and well respected man, who enjoyed giving, teaching and sharing his knowledge with others. He had a strong passion for land and farming where he grew his own fruits, vegetables and grapes for his home made wine. He enjoyed sharing his great knowledge about farming with others. He had an amazing green thumb and could grow everything which included grafting different varieties and species of fruits. He liked to share his produce with others at his fruit stand on Church's Lane. As a hard worker, he worked for the Norton company for many years to provide for his family. Francesco loved to dance and entertain others by playing the harmonica and accordion. He was a great story teller and his friends and family would enjoy listening to his funny stories. The family  would like to thank the St. Elizabeth nursing team and all PSW's  for their wonderful care of Francesco. A special thank you to Joyce Otwombe and Chris Lanni who became like extended family. Friends are invited to join the family at the PATTERSON FUNERAL HOME, 6062 Main St. Niagara Falls, visiting Sunday August 6, 2023 from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm. Vigil prayers will be held at 8:00 pm. at the funeral home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Scapular Church on Monday August 7 2023 at 10:30 am. The Rite of Entombment will follow at Fairview Mausoleum. In memory of Francesco, donations to the Parkinson Canada or Heart Niagara would be appreciated by his family. Online condolences at pattersonfuneralhome.com