Michael Minichiello

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Nono and Great Nono. Michael-Mike was born in Civitanova Del Sannio, Italy and immigrated to Canada at the age of 13. He is pre-deceased by his adoring wife of 63 years, Josephine, and brothers Peter (Doreen) and John, and brother-in-law Domenic (Ann). Survived by his loving family; daughter Gloria (Ross), sons Joe (Robin) and Anthony (Elaine), grandchildren Michael (Cara), Keith (Christina), Lorinda (Bryan), Delaney and Quincy, great grandchildren Ethan and Lara, his sister-in-law Diane and brother-in-law Joe (Mary) Lastoria. Mike was a barber on Hastings Street in Vancouver and Burnaby for over three decades where he loved talking to people and debating politics. He was always very personable, friendly and had a great deal of empathy for people and animals . He told stories of tending to his family’s livestock in Italy. Mike took on a lot of responsibility at a very young age as his father emigrated to Canada. His second day in Canada he started shining shoes in downtown Vancouver. His next job was at the Hotel Vancouver eventually moving up the ranks to a pastry chef position (loved making pies). After that it was the Roundhouse (railway terminal) as a Blacksmith. Later, during the war effort, he worked at the shipyard building mine sweeper ships. He was always an avid vegetable gardener, took great pride in the quantity and quality of the tomatoes he and mom grew. During the last number of years, he lived independently at Rideau Manor where he made many friends with both residents and staff. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to his fellow residents. Our sincerest gratitude goes out to the staff at Rideau Manor as well as all the nurses and doctors who attended to him during his final days at Vancouver General Hospital. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 6th from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bell and Burnaby Funeral Chapel, 4276 Hastings St, Burnaby. Mass of Christian Burial, will be Celebrated on Friday, June 7th, 10:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 2025 Napier Street, Vancouver after which there will be a reception. Entombment Ocean View South Mausoleum. Donations may made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.