Antonino Cotroneo

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Antonino Cotroneo on Friday, November 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Antonino is survived by his wife of 52 years, Domenica; his children, Natalie (late Fabio), Frank (Olive), Tonino (Laura), Enzo, and Gino (Maria); and his cherished grandchildren, Alexia, Tonino, Lidia, Alessandro, Adriano, Sienna, Selina, Marco, Mileya, Valentina, and Aviana. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews in Canada and Italy, as well as his dear brothers, Giorgio (Angelina) and Matteo (Alice); his sisters, Angelina (Antonio) and Antonia; and his sisters-in-law, Domenica (late Vincenzo), Tita (late Rocco), Carmelina (late Vincenzo), Pina (Natale), and brother-in-law Mario (Santina). Antonino was predeceased by his parents, Francesco and Domenica; his siblings, Natalina, Anna, and Vincenzo; his son-in-law Fabio; his brothers-in-law, Filippo, Rocco, and Vincenzo; and his father-in-law, Antonino, and mother-in-law, Angela.

Antonino was born on December 15, 1933, in San Roberto, Reggio Calabria, Italy, the third of seven children. From a young age, he embraced the values of hard work, family, and faith. As a young man, Antonino worked alongside his brothers, Giorgio and Matteo, laying the foundation for a life built on integrity and dedication.

In 1972, Antonino married the love of his life, Domenica. Together, they made the courageous decision to immigrate to Canada in 1973, where they started a new chapter and began raising their family. For 52 years, Antonino and Domenica built a home full of love, laughter, and devotion, welcoming friends and family with open arms.

Antonino was a master bricklayer, recognized for his craftsmanship and perfectionism. His work was not just a job but a true passion. He poured his heart and soul into every project. His talent was matched only by his humility.

Antonino’s true passion, however, was his family. He took great pride in being a father to his five children, offering them unconditional love, guidance, and support throughout their lives. His devotion was evident in everything he did, and he never missed an opportunity to tell his children how proud he was of them. He encouraged each one of them to pursue their dreams and to never give up.

Antonino also welcomed his daughters-in-law—Olive, Laura, and Maria—into the family as if they were his own daughters, and shared a special bond with his late son-in-law, Fabio.

Antonino’s heart beamed with pride for his 11 grandchildren. His joy in their accomplishments, big or small, was immeasurable. He delighted in their laughter, their milestones, and their growth, always making time to create lasting memories with each one. His love for them was a beacon of light, guiding them with the same values he cherished: faith, kindness, and family.

Antonino leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us every day. His family is forever grateful for the years they had with him, and his memory will be cherished forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 29, 2024, at Holy Rosary Church. Condolences will be received at 10:00 am, followed by Mass at 11:00 am, officiated by Father Michael Raj Savarimuthu. For those unable to attend in person, the Mass will be streamed virtually at:

https://youtube.com/live/Y9KPhuMpRTc?feature=share

Entombment will follow at the Holy Angel Mausoleum.

Pallbearers will be his nephews and grandsons; Frank Porpiglia, Frank Cotroneo, Robert Cotroneo, Frank Cotroneo, Filippo Porpiglia, Matteo Cotroneo, Tonino Cotroneo and Alessandro Imbrogno.

The family extends its heartfelt thanks to the Home Care staff (Anita, Olga and Irene) who enhanced Antonino’s quality of life with their care and compassion. The services of Home Care enabled Antonino to remain comfortably in his home. The family would like to recognize the wonderful and dignified care received at HSC by the medical team on GB2.

Antonino will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate to have known him. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Antonino’s profound love for children, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Make – a- Wish Canada (Manitoba Chapter), who grant life changing wishes to children with critical illnesses. Donations can be made online at https://makeawish.ca/donate/