Roberto D'Andrea

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Roberto D’Andrea, with his family by his side, on Saturday, June 27, at the age of 44.

Roberto was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on April 15, 1982.

Roberto will be sadly missed by his wife, Marisa D’Andrea; his parents, Antonio and Josie D’Andrea (Frank Caligiuri); his brother, Marino D’Andrea; his niece and goddaughter, Mikayla D’Andrea; his mother- and father-in-law, Nino and Zelia Cantafio; his brother-in-law, Anthony Cantafio; his many aunts, uncles, godchildren, cousins, and extended family; his family in Italy; his dear friends; and, of course, his beloved fur babies, his two pugs, Romo (named after his favourite Dallas Cowboy, Tony Romo) and his princess, Daisy, whom he loved deeply.

He was predeceased by his Nonni, Salvatore and Diana Colatruglio, and Nonni, Marino and Pasqualina D’Andrea; his aunt, Michelina Urciuoli; and his cousin, Antonio (Anthony) Colatruglio.

Roberto was the life of the party and had a way of bringing laughter and joy wherever he went. Nothing meant more to him than spending time with his wife, his fur babies, his family, and his friends, with whom he shared countless unforgettable memories. If there was music playing, you could always find him on the dance floor, especially when Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” came on.

Born and raised in Winnipeg’s Maples community, Roberto made lifelong friendships that remained close throughout his life. He often reminisced about his childhood, sharing stories of his neighbourhood, family gatherings with his aunts, uncles, and cousins, and trips to Italy to visit family. He was deeply proud of his Italian heritage and loved bringing people together over great food and conversation.

Roberto earned his advanced degree in Economics from the University of Manitoba and later successfully completed the Canadian Securities Course. He built a successful career at Amber Meadow and later with RBC as a banking advisor, a profession that became his true calling and passion.

Outside of work, he cherished his Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collection, cheered on his beloved Napoli, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Winnipeg Jets, and loved watching soccer matches at X-Cues with his brother, Marino.

Halloween was his favourite holiday, and every year he became known for the elaborate costumes he proudly created. Roberto always made sure he took his cherished niece and goddaughter, Mikayla, trick-or-treating—a tradition they both treasured and one he always made time for.

Nothing gave Roberto greater joy than gathering around the dinner table with his family, especially enjoying his mom Josie’s cooking, which he adored, spending time at his dad Tony’s house drinking an MGD beer on the deck while watching Serie A together, and visiting his in-laws’ home to enjoy his favourite dessert, Portuguese Crab.

Above all, Roberto treasured the life he built with his beloved wife, Marisa. Together they shared 15 years of love, laughter, travel, family traditions, and unwavering devotion to one another. Through every season of life, they faced challenges hand in hand, creating countless memories that Marisa will cherish forever.

Roberto’s greatest legacy is not the illness he endured, but the life he lived. He will be remembered for his kindness, unforgettable sense of humour, and the joy he brought to every room he entered. Roberto never lost his hope or his fighting spirit. He remained a pillar of strength for those around him, teaching everyone who knew him what true resilience looks like. He will be deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

To know Roberto was to know laughter, playfulness, and unconditional love. We will miss you more than words can ever express. Rest peacefully now, Roberto. We find comfort knowing you are finally at peace. Rest in God’s loving embrace until we are together again.

Pallbearers are his brother, Marino D’Andrea; his brother-in-law, Anthony Cantafio; his cousin, Gaetano Colatruglio; his godson, Luca DiFabrizio; and friends who were like family: Jason Colatruglio, Dario Monaco, Roberto Monaco, and Mark Ladobruk.

The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 510 River Avenue, on Tuesday, July 7, at 11:00 a.m., with Father Sam presiding. Condolences will be received beginning at 10:00 a.m.

A private interment will follow for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.