Antonio "Tony" Pires Rei

He is survived by his wife, Sharon and son, Marc, also by three sisters and two brothers and many nieces and nephews.

He has left us a legacy of his passion for life.

Starting at sixteen, he traveled the world. There wasn't a country that he did not visit. He lived a full life.

Once he entered Canada, he knew this country was his home. He loved the Comox Valley, especially the ocean and the forests. This was truly his home.

Tony had a career as a chef for logging companies such as Canfor and Interfor for 40 years. He took great pride in presenting his menus to the crew.

After retirement his hobbies were gardening and woodturning. He loved to garden and he shared vegetables and fruits with friends and neighbours. He was always willing to share tips on gardening or grafting on his grapevines or fruit trees. Many will remember him for his garlic and figs. He nurtured his plants and enjoyed seeing food grow.

Tony valued hard work and a job well done. He had an admirable work ethic and took pride in all that he did.

His passion was woodturning. He made many pieces which are enjoyed by many people around the world. He was a creative artist. Many will remember him by the artwork he created.

Tony was a humble man. He had respect and showed kindness to all he knew. A man of many talents. Always willing to teach. A family man who enjoyed family and friends gatherings.

We would like to express our extreme gratitude for all the caregivers at North Island Hospital and recently at Ocean Front Village. Too many to name but you know who you are. Thank you for being our angels. You cared with compassion and love to Tony and to us. He always made you smile with his sense of humor. He loved you all. Thank you, thank you and thank you. Words cannot express how our hearts feel.

When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. The angel said my place was ready, in heaven far above, and that I'd have to leave behind all those that I dearly love, but when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home, for God looked down, smiled at me and told me "Welcome Home". So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, for every time you think of me, I'm right there in your heart.

Rest in peace!

No service by request. A family gathering at a later date. Please, no flowers but a donation to Dementia/Alzheimers society or a charity of your choice. Thank you.