ANTONIO CANTAFIO

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ANTONIO "TONY" CANTAFIO 1925 - 2002 Peacefully, on Friday, May 3, 2002, at the Victoria Hospital, Tony passed away at the age of 76. He was predeceased by his mother, Maria, father Domenico, mother-in-law Giusepina Fiorentino, father-in-law Gregorio Fiorentino, brother Guido, brother-in-law Tony Torchia and son-in-law Jim Bartlet. He will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 56 years, Rachela; his children, Wanda, Albina (Frank) and Dominic (Silvana) his sister Maria; brothers, Gregorio (Ima), Ralph (Elvria) and John (Lucia) as well as six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was born on June 21, 1925, in Amato, Italy. Tony learned the art of blacksmithing and welding (which was his lifelong profession) at the hands of his grandfather. He was a true artisan who perfected his craft and worked on a piece until it met his exact specifications. As was the case with many Europeans after the war, Tony left his beloved homeland to find a better life for his family. He came to Canada in 1951 and his family followed shortly after. Tony worked for many years in the welding industry, but also took on many other evening jobs in order to provide for this family, his work ethic was immeasurable. He established McGillivary Welding (along with his son Dominic) in 1970 and proceeded to impart his skillful techniques until his retirement in 1990. Tony loved music, (he as an accomplished trumpet and accordion player), opera (in particular La Traviata), gardening, soccer and hunting, but his greatest love was for family and friends. Tony had fought a difficult battle with Diabetes for the last five years, a battle fought with dignity, courage and strength. We would like to thank the staff of the Victoria Hospital and the homecare workers (in particular, Eddie and Michael who have cared for Tony with sensitivity, love and respect). Prayers will be said on Monday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Holy Rosary Church, 510 River Ave. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 7 at 10:00 a.m., also at the church with Rev. Fr. Ron Pasinato presiding. Entombment to follow at the Chapel of Eternal Memories Mausoleum, 1501 Waverley St. Pallbearers will be Joe Fiorentino, Dominic Cantafio, Ralph Cantafio, Nino Cantafio, Rob Kocin and Tino Passante. If friends so desire, donations in Tonys name may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 101-310 Broadway Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3C 0S6. LEATHERDALE GARDINER 1501 Waverley Street, 949-4860

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 06, 2002