Obituary of FRANCESCO NOTARIANNI

FRANCESCO NOTARIANNI It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, nonno and brother on January 15, 2012. He was predeceased by his parents Giuseppe and Erminia, brother Antonio, sisters Ilda, Maria, Maria-Luisa and Flora; sisters-in-law Maria and Vincenza and father and mother-in-law Pietro and Teresa Rigitano. Francesco leaves to celebrate his life, his devoted wife of 54 years Gioconda, children Erminia (Amy) (Sam) Wollmann, Joe (Jackie), Teresa (Dave) Bailey and Peter; his precious grandchildren Joshua, Jordan, Lucas, Francesco, Aidan, Nicholas, Sabrina, Marco, Liam and Steven. He is also survived by siblings Giovanni (Maria), Mario (Mirella), and Antonio (Rosina), sister-in-law Vanda Matteis and numerous nieces and nephews both here and in Italy. Francesco was born on October 17, 1934 in Grimaldi, Calabria, Italy and came to Canada in 1959 and worked at various jobs until opening his own barber shop. Throughout his years, he made many friends and would lend a hand to anyone in need. Francesco’s love was for his family. He devoted his life to provide them a solid foundation grounded in hard work and respect for one another. Francesco had a huge heart and was a selfless individual. His passion was gardening and tenderly caring for his many birds and fish over the years. Despite his last few years of illness, he continued to display great courage, grace and strength. He found comfort when surrounded by family and friends whether at home or at the cottage. The light of his life was his family; he showed them his love in so many countless ways. The family would like to thank the staff of the Community Palliative Care Program, CancerCare Manitoba, the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface General Hospital and his many friends and family for their love and support. A celebration of Francesco’s life will be held on Friday, January 20, 2012 at Holy Rosary Parish, 510 River Avenue. Viewing will be from 10:00 am-10:45 am followed by Mass of Christian Burial with Fr. Gerry McDougall, SJ presiding. Pallbearers will be Sam, Joshua, Jordan and Lucas Wollmann, Dave Bailey and Brian Malkowich. Entombment will be held at Green Acres Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Boniface General Hospital Foundation – Palliative Care Unit.