My beloved son it’s been 1 year since  the Lord took you home. Dad misses you with an ache in my heart that even I can’t fathom how to cope with the sorrow, but the Good Lord has his way of easing our hearts. In the meantime we have opened the door and offered grief a place at the table and she will only depart  when it’s my time to cross that river and see you again. I miss you every second of every day.
Dad.

I was Giovanni's temporary supervisor at YRP Aux before I got transferred to another district. I was hoping that Giovanni would eventually be able to live out his dream of becoming a Police Officer. Unfortunately God had other plans for him. May he rest in eternal peace. Condolences to all his family and friends.

In this time of sorrow, we extend our deepest condolences, Rest in Peace Giovanni. We all have prayed for you but God needed you more than we did, may the fond memories you shared brings us comfort during this difficult time. It was your time to fly high and stay in a better place looking after all of us.
Sending prayers to all the family.

Kind regards, 
In behalf of the Família de Freitas. 🙏🏻
Delta (Godmother) and cousins Tony, Marilisa and Delta.

May 2nd, 2022 - York Regional Police - Ottawa - Police Memorial Event - A day with my brother

March 23rd, 2022 - York Regional Police - Headquarters- Graduation Day! - I specifically remember Gio telling me that he wanted to become a Police Officer, he mentioned to me how much it meant for him to help others, to be something bigger than himself and just the overall joy he got when he was in uniform going out to community events or ride alongs with other officers. I would tell him not to give up on his dream because he would be an amazing Police Officer no matter where he went. The people out there would be lucky to have him. All he wanted was to serve others with his big heart and smile. A true brother in arms. I love you brother.

April 28th, 2022 - York Regional Police Headquarters - When I first met Gio during our training for Auxiliary Constable  with York Regional Police, right away I could tell that this guy was going to make training a lot less stressful. Gio filled the room with his presence and overall with his ability to make friends with everyone so quickly, he eventually got to me and I never stopped laughing and feeling like a had brother during our entire time inside and outside York Regional Police.

September 24th, 2022 - York Regional Police - Ottawa Trip - Gio always with his snarky comments would make everyone laugh and welcomed. I truly appreciate and admire the fact that I got to be in his life for a short time but one I will never forget.

September 24th, 2022 - York Regional Police - Ottawa Trip - Gio accepted me into his life with open arms and a big smile. He was always like that with others. It was truly a special moment to be around his presence with how funny he was but most of all how welcoming and caring he was and will always be.

In Memory of Giovanni (JoJo)

JoJo—a nickname, born in the halls of St. Mary’s School—marked the beginning of a friendship that would last a lifetime.  But JoJo was more than a friend; he was, and will always be, a brother in arms, forever in spirit. JoJo’s heart was as pure as his words, never a harsh thought, never an unkind word. His kindness was a rare gift, and it touched everyone who knew him.

My deepest sympathies go out to Mr. and Mrs. de Freitas, Nikita, Nicole, his extended family, his partner Cassidy, and all his friends during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest in peace, JoJo. Your memory will live on forever in our hearts, and we will carry you with us until the day we meet again.

“There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone.” “We do not remember days, we remember moments.” “Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.”

Our condolences to Uncle John, Noelia, Nicole, Nikita and Cassidy.

Psalm 34:18: "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." We can only imagine the depth of pain you are feeling, knowing how Gio was an irreplaceable part of each of you ❤️

May you find comfort in cherished memories and strength in each other and the Lord during this time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all ❤️

With deepest sympathy,
Jessica-Jo and Savio

As we say farewell to you today dear nephew,  you will be a constant reminder that life is so short and family is everything. 
We are so heartbroken but
you are so loved near and far
You will forever be in our hearts and never forgotten 
May you fly high with the Angels, Giovanni ❤
Aunty Leonie
Uncle Joe 
Jessica-Jo
Savio
To my dear brother John, Noelia, Nikita, Nicole and Cassidy  once again our heartfelt condolences 
You are in prayers
Love you ❤

A little about Giovanni.
Giovanni was described as eager, motivated and passionate in serving with the CAF. He was observed as physically fit, eager to follow direction and to learn new skills during training. Giovanni cooperated well with their peers and section mbrs while also being seen as a more reliable candidate for staff to direct and train.
Giovanni’s eagerness and energy was contagious to both staff and candidates, he truly exhibited patriotism that is no longer as common in military recruits. 
Giovanni also possessed a sense of humour with a smile and laughing while surrounded by their section peers cleaning weapons or completing station jobs. 
One peer described Giovanni as a “Gentle Giant”, always helping others before themselves.
Giovanni’s character would be described as; hard working, highly capable, respected amongst their peers and staff and dedicated in serving with the CAF. He confided in his peers that serving in the CAF had also been a lifelong aspiriation for him. 
 
Giovanni was always observed putting forth an admirable effort during BMQ, he displayed desired traits and qualities in an infanteer and would have excelled and been an asset to their regiment. Giovanni advised staff of his aspiritations in the P Res were to complete DP1 and to challenege and attempt specializations in the infantry such as recce, basic parachutist, mountain operations and more. 
Giovanni was described as eager, motivated and passionate in serving with was always attentive during class, asked relevant and technical questions indicating a desire to learn.
During physical training he was always observed keeping up with the lead group and had energy to spare to motivate their peers, encouraging their peers to drink water and to keep moving after hard training.
Giovanni was among the top performing candidates in drill, dress and deportment. He was often shown as an example when demonstrating or teaching the course in wearing and utilizing issued uniform and kit.

Even tho I didn’t have much time with Gio, I felt close to him and drawn to him like he was a big brother to me.  He constantly looked out for me and the rest of my buddies and was there when we needed help. I wish I got to say goodbye but I know Gio is in a better place now. Love him and miss him dearly.

Wishing you all peace amd comfort during this time.  

During my time this summer on  BMQ , I had the oppurtunity to meet Giovanni and have a short conversations with him. His smile is contagious.  He is kind and comforting,  a wonderful human being!

Course 1253 have made a donation to VETS Canada in memory of Giovanni.

Dear Nikita and family, 

I am so sorry to hear about Giovanni’s passing. I cannot imagine the pain all of you must be feeling.  Just know that I am keeping you all in my thoughts and sending comfort and peace during this difficult time.
I knew Giovanni throughout elementary school.  I remember him being such a cheerful kid who always had the biggest smile. All those times Nikita would find him and give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek because he was her cute baby brother.  I was able to witness throughout elementary school and high school how much of a light Giovanni was in both Nikita and Nicole’s life. 
In high school, I remember going on after school jogs with Nikita and Amanda. I remember the day Nikita invited Giovanni to come along. I remember this vividly because he made it seem effortless while all of us were trying to keep up.  That is what I will always remember; Seeing that big smile of his while patiently waiting for us to catch up.

Giovanni, you were loved by many and will be missed by many. You will be remembered, always.
With Love, 
Kristel

I am so very sorry for this big loss. Losing someone is never easy, and when they’re so young it’s even more difficult to understand or deal with. 

I grew up being close to Nikita, and I remember how close Giovanni was to her and Nicole, honestly the three of them were glued at the hip and you could see how much Giovanni looked up to his two sisters, even when he started to exceed their heights. Nikita talked about Giovanni the most (of her family) growing up, and she absolutely adored him. He meant so much to her. Whether she was worried about him that day or bragging about his height, there never went a day where she wouldn’t talk about him. I remember seeing the way the three of them all looked after one another and thought to myself I want the same for me and my brothers. 

Nikita even brought him on some runs with Kristel and myself when we were in high school, and I remember how enthusiastic he was. I remember always seeing him in elementary with such a big, bright smile. May he rest in peace and watch over you all, and protect you.

Dear Aunty Noelia & Uncle John 
We wanted to reach out and let you know how deeply sorry we are for your loss. We cannot begin to imagine the pain you’re going through, please know that we are thinking of you, family & Giovannis friends during this difficult time. We have always heard such beautiful stories of your special son filled with love & adventure may you rest easy Giovanni. You are safe in the arms of God 

Love Johnny & Emilia 
Xox

Condolences to John and Noelia and family may God give you strength in this times,from tia Floripes and the de Freitas family South Africa

Giovanni, some people leave footprints on our hearts, and you are one of them. I  will carry you with me, honoring the lessons you lived by and the love you shared. Every day, I will carry forward the love you showed, the wisdom you shared, and the kindness that defines you. Your spirit lives on in every heart that you touched, including my own. Every time I saw Giovanni, he always filled me with so much joy and happiness. I still remember the first time I met you, I was nervous- but after meeting you my nerves melted away and it felt like I had met someone I’ve known my whole life. The comfort and ease you brought me, it was like I was talking to my brother. To me Giovanni, you are my brother and you forever will be. In my heart, you will live on forever.

Heartfelt condolences to friends and family, I cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak that is felt at this time. 
I met Giovanni while studying at Humber and I was lucky enough to meet him in my very first class on my very first day. 
Gio was very easy to strike a conversation up with, and it didn’t take long for us to become friends. Through group projects, the gym, visiting each other at work and grabbing food or coffee, I was lucky enough to spend my time with my friend.
He was very passionate and I was always excited to hear about any new experiences or happenings in his life as time went on and we reached out to each other. I am deeply saddened and shocked at the news of his passing, I can honestly say I don’t know where I would be if he hadn’t come into my life when he did. 
Miss you and love you buddy

My handsome brother, Giovanni. He always had a smiling face, polite behaviour, and a kind heart. A cowboy through and through and the force and strength of an army! Giovanni was electric and the light of every celebration and gathering. 
I cherish the moments we shared together, the laughter you brought and the way you made everyone feel important. You left us too soon. It is hard to believe that you no longer walk among us, a bitter truth. I take solace in knowing that God invites back those who are closest to Him. 
A martyr never dies, and Giovanni is a martyr for all of the fighting and suffering he endured these past 3+ months. Giovanni, you will never be forgotten and will forever be in our hearts and in  our memories. You will be deeply missed by all those who had the honour of knowing you. 
Rest in peace my dear brother, Giovanni. You will remain at the forefront of my prayers, always.

Heartfelt condolences to Giovanni's family and friends. We cannot imagine the pain that comes with this unforgettable loss. I had the pleasure of being in BMQ with him and I always remember him smiling, he was truly such a good person and he will always be remembered by me and all of his friends at the CAF and the Toronto Scottish Regiment. 

"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow for death is no more than a turning of us over from time to eternity."

I was deeply saddened to hear of Giovanni's passing. Losing someone so young is a heartbreak beyond words, and my heart aches for you during this time of sorrow. Please know that you are in my thoughts. May you find comfort in the love of friends and family, and in the beautiful memories Giovanni left behind.

"What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us."

With my heartfelt condolences,
Helena Medeiros

Giovanni our beloved nephew and cousin gone too soon.  For 3 months we prayed for a miracle but our Lord Jesus wanted you more in his Kingdom. Rest gently in Jesus arms. To my darling brother John, Noelia, Nikita, Nicole and Cassidy our deepest condolences at this difficult time. Giovanni will forever be in our broken hearts. Rest in peace beautiful soul.
Love from Auntie Maria, Uncle John and family xx

Words cannot describe how much he will be missed. 

I feel so fortunate to have been there with him during BMQ witnessing first-hand, his transformation from civilian to soldier. He was a solid course-mate and a great friend to all of us. I distinctly remember him being one of the few people who was able to properly stay in step on the march as we learned drill. He put 100% into everything he did on course and always found humour when we needed that positive kick.

I can honestly tell you all that Giovanni was performing at his absolute best during his short time with us in the Canadian Armed Forces and I have no question that he would have made an excellent Infantry Soldier.

So long friend.

Jesus told his apostles that He will be leaving for his father's house where He has many mansions and prepare a place for them. I sense that Giovanni is preparing a place for his family...knowing him, it'll be  Ranch full of horses where he's the Main Cowboy 🤠.  Love you buddy. 
From your Godfather & Uncle, Tony.

Our deepest condolences to Uncle John, Noelia & family on the passing of Giovanni 🙏
May his soul RIP 🙏 lovingly remembered 
Love from Robbie, Lizette, Nina & Grace xx

To Noelia, John, Nicole and Nikita,
We are so saddened to hear of the loss of your beautiful boy, Giovanni. We have been praying for his healing every day. May God send you all strength during this difficult time.  Remember, "When we lose someone we love we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind. "
All our love, Daniela & Campbell

Noelia, John, Nicole and Nikita.  Our hearts are broken at the news of Gios passing. We have to say that  Gio was one of the kindest and sweetest young men we have met.  His smile was one that was infectious.  And Gios love for his family was a love we saw each time we were all together.  Please know you are all in our hearts, thoughts and prayers, during this most difficult time.  Pam, Dave, Curtis, Brad, Koni, Derrick, Amber, Violet and Dexter ❤️

I would like to convey my deepest condolences to Giovanni`s family for such an untimely passing. I taught Giovanni , as well as Nikita and Nicole, at St. Mary Elementary for several years. I will always remember Giovanni as a kind, happy person who was always willing to help others.  His generosity and sense of fairness were a trademark that he lived by. My thoughts and prayers are with Ms. and Mr. de Freitas as well as with Nikita and Nicole.  Gone way too soon, descansa em paz, Giovanni !

Condolences , so sorry to hear of his passing , Gio was a wonderful guy.  Always had a smile for everyone .Gio was a light in this world.              Thinking of Cassidy & families. Love & hugs Ivy & Bob

Giovanni always had a huge smile and a kind word for everyone he met.  Throughout his years at St. Mary’s elementary school, he filled the hallways with happiness and empathy for all.   Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

My nephew, which I miss his smile, laugh, his face. Gone too soon a fine young man. I can't believe that this is real. That you no longer walk this earth. I know our Lord has his reasons, but you were our light in this world. I have no doubt you will be one of God’s angels. We love you from your time of birth. We watched you grow and learn. My nephew, we shall meet again. When it's our time, to return we will join you in Heaven with our Lord Jesus. From you Uncle and Aunt, Rafael and Elmare de Freitas

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Giovanni. I remember him very fondly as a student at St. Mary School. Sending my deepest condolences to the entire family. May he rest in peace.

My deepest sympathy to Gio's parents and family! Gio became part of our family the second he started dating Cassidy(my niece) and he's the only person that I immediately loved as soon as I met him. You can see his soul through his eyes and he brings joy and love wherever he goes. He will be surely missed by everyone who knows and met him. My boys and I love you Gio.

Our trip to Gio’s “must stop here” donut shop on the way to Pennsylvania. Gio has great taste, the donuts were fantastic. Love you Gio ❤️

RIP dear nephew 🙏🏼
Our hearts are broken and we will forever hold your memory in our hearts
Love to our brother John, Noelia and girls 🤗❤️
Love Always, Neil, Fatts, Liam & Aidan 🩵

OBITUARY

Giovanni Fernando Sousa de Freitas

27 July, 2000 – 4 November, 2024

Jerrett Funeral Homes - St. Clair Chapel

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