Donato (Don) Picheca

In Toronto on September 21, 2019, in his 82nd year, Donato passed away peacefully at Christie Gardens, after a lengthy struggle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was surrounded by his loving daughters and their families.

Don, predeceased by his wife Angie (2012), will be dearly missed by Nancy Fornasiero (Mark) of Oakville, Donna Picheca (Saul Cordova), Christine Picheca of Toronto, and Lory Picheca (Jeremy Wilson) of Ottawa, in addition to his cherished grandchildren, Robbie, Sam, Gabriel, Peter and Daniella. Born in Celle di San Vito in 1937, Don will be missed by family in Canada and abroad. Predeceased by his siblings Prospero (Elena), Antonio (Amy), Iole (Donato), Aldo (Madeleine), Cesare (Gina), Giuseppina (Antonio), he is mourned by his brother Bruno (Mimie) of France, sister Maria (Mauro) DeSantis of Norfolk County, and his brother-in-law John Del Rossi (Isabel) of Brantford. Zio Don also holds a special place in the hearts of his many nieces and nephews.

After emigrating from Italy in 1958, Donato worked at various jobs including mining, carpentry and welding. In 1971 he fulfilled his entrepreneurial dream when, together with Angie, he opened a grocery-butcher shop. Picheca’s Food Market operated successfully for over 20 years and served as a hub for Brantford’s Italian-Canadian community. A self-made man, Don was proud of the life he provided for his family despite his humble beginnings. He was prouder yet of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, which are no doubt linked to his example and lessons in hard work and tenacity.

Don held many other roles, particularly during his retirement years: mentor/advisor, master gardener, home renovator, woodworker, gastronome, dancer, music lover, Juventus fanatic, and especially being a devoted Nonno. Everywhere he went, from his many worldwide trips with Angie, to his move to Oakville in 2010, to his years living in retirement residences, his warm outgoing personality won him friends and fans instantly. He was a true “people person” and will be missed by many.

Friends will be received at the Thorpe Brothers Funeral Home, 96 West Street, Brantford on Tuesday, Sept 24 from 2–4 pm and at 7–9 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Church, 9 Waverly Street, Brantford, on Wednesday, Sept 25 at 10 am. Interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery with reception to follow.

The Picheca daughters would like to thank the many compassionate care partners who not only supported our father in recent years, but also doted on him like he was family. If desired, please consider a donation in honour of Don to The Christie Gardens Foundation (www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-christie-gardens-foundation/), or to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.thorpebrothersfh.com. (519) 759-2211