Giuseppe (Joe) Domenico Donia
September 22, 1935 ~ January 19, 2022
Obituary
Giuseppe (Joe) Donia, passed away, peacefully with his family by his side, on January 19, 2022, at the age of 86. Born in Castelpizzuto, Isernia, Italy on September 22, 1935, immigrated to Canada in March 1960, and married Mafalda (Caranci), in Toronto, on May 14, 1960.
Joe is remembered by his family, friends and many ‘paesani’ of the Castelpizzuto Social community as being one of a kind. A man who always lived in the moment, with a zest for life, ready for fun and laughter.
Most greetings from Joe consisted of a bright and friendly smile, sometimes to include his happy skip jump dance move, which concluded with a strong bear hug lift in the air. He loved to be surrounded by people, this brought him immense joy. Joe, along with his friends, always took centre stage where the room would quickly fill with singing, music, dancing, silly gestures and the occasional playing of a musical instrument, whether it be the organetto or trombone.
Joe dreamed big! He enjoyed doing many things and when the creative process was involved, he collaborated well with others, but more so enjoyed being the boss. He took pleasure in participating in many social club events, serving 40 years in the Toronto Italian Band, and was devoted to his annual hunting trips.
It is because of Joe’s heartfelt pride for family, heritage and community, his accomplishments were made possible. His greatest accomplishment by far, his family, allowed him to fulfill his role as husband, father and grandfather. How he loved to ‘show off’ his grandchildren, their talents and individual successes. He cherished the time spent together and loved them unconditionally. Nonno Joe will live in our hearts as the lively, fun, proud Nonno.
Joe’s later years were lived at Elginwood Long Term Care facility where he was known as ‘Papa Joe’. He was loved by all staff and caregivers for his silly, fun nature. Although the illness of dementia presented its challenges over the years, the staff treated him with much care, kindness and respect. In his early days, he often thought of himself as the property manager, conducting window repairs without tools, and even tried to collect rent from other residents. Joe continued to be the center of attention and never hesitated to entertain others. He would always motion a hand wave, with a big, bright smile and an occasional burst of laughter. The family would like to express sincere appreciation to the entire staff at Elginwood. We are forever grateful for all you have done for our ‘Papa Joe’.
Giuseppe (Joe) is survived by his beloved wife, Mafalda; his children, Dom (Teresa), Nancy (Antony), Pina (Mario); his grandchildren, Joseph, Daniela, Kavina, Jaclyn and Matthew; his sister, Maria Donia-Vacca. Giuseppe (Joe) is predeceased by his parents, Domenico and Annunziata and his brother Rosario Donia.
Donations
In Lieu of flowers, the family prefer donations to Heart & Stroke Foundation or Alzheimer Society of Ontario
Visitation
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
Monday, January 24, 2022 – 4:00pm – 8:00 pm
Due to Covid-19 capacity restrictions, we are inviting family and friends for visitation, to pay their respects, offer condolences and then kindly exit the building to allow for others to enter. No appointment necessary. However, family and friends may have to wait to pay their respects during the visitation period.
Funeral Mass – Private Family Only
Chapel of St. Joseph (at the Holy Cross location) – Tuesday, January 25, 2022 – 10:30am
Streaming
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Giuseppe Joe Domenico Donia 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Thornhill, Province: Ontario
Our Condolences to you for the passing of Joe. There will never be another man like him.
The Bucci Family, Gene, Sam, Cindy, Chris, and families.