Giovanni Bartolomeo D'Alimonte

My father John D'Alimonte was born in Roccamorice Province of Pescara, Italy and his nick name was "BATTA LA MATTS". At a very early age, he lost his father and later on became one of many first landed Italian immigrants who struggled very hard in the 1950's in a new country Canada with a new language and new laws to adhere to. A child of the Great Depression my father was a successful and caring man with a big heart. Right to the end my father and mother had a very loving and caring relationship for one another. My mother who battles from Aylmer's was at my father's side during his peaceful departure. My father was married to my mother for well over half a century. Their loving union yielded nine children. My father a responsible and loving parent played a large role in our lives. He had a special relationship with his only son Rocco as best friends and confided in each other. They had no secrets; and they were truly bonded more than just Father and Son. Their dreams and future expectations came to a tragic halt, May 9, 2006 when Rocco was killed. The loss was a great blow especially to my father, but in acts of deep faith and supreme optimism my father went on to support and encourage his eight daughters, 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Our father's strength was defined primarily by his unfailing ability to rise above his limitations in a never-ending effort to those around him. My father suffered from a multitude of physical ailments, yet somehow always managed to go on every day and, he always came through for everyone. Our father couldn't pass a stranger without saying hello with a sense of humor and enjoyed to laugh. Dad, thanks for the support of knowing you were behind us all in everything we did. Much of our success as individuals and as a family was generated from that position of proud strength. He died proud of his wife, his children, their spouses, and his grandkids. "We always loved you Dad and will always carry you in our minds and in our hearts". We are happy because we know that you and Rocco are together once again, in heaven. GOODBYE DAD, WE LOVE YOU and WE'LL MISS YOU.