Emilio Parziale

Emilio Parziale was born in Ferrandina, Italy on January 14, 1930. Father to Antonia, Anna, Carmela and Carmine and father-in-law to Jeffrey and Drew. He had a younger brother, Francesco, with whom he remained close his entire life. He also had an older brother, Giuseppe. He married our mother, Rosa Regina, when they were both unfashionably older for small town Italy. That didn't stop them from having four children.

On mom's insistence, the family packed up, sailed the big blue sea, passing the iconic Statue of Liberty on route to Toronto, where they joined her family. Life was rough for them at first. He spoke no English and had no job. He worked a series of manual labour jobs, operated a crane, drove a big wheel truck across the provinces and eventually owned and operated two convenience stores. Pa was very proud of being an honorary member of the Italian Police association. For years we attended the annual policeman's ball. On one occasion he had the privilege of leading the parade of uniformed police from around the world.

Our mom passed away when we were young adults. Pa was left with a household of 3 daughters, one son, and his aged mother-in-law. Pa made it work and supported us all. He had a beautiful relationship with his partner, Antonietta, who also sadly passed away. Pa eventually met Emma, with whom he built a loving relationship over the past 2 decades. They spent a good part of the year in Mexico, escaping our harsh winters. Pa had an active life in Acapulco, learned Spanish and even got involved in local politics. He had the ability to adapt and reinvent himself at multiple points in his life. He was blessed to know his six grandchildren, Matthew, Rosie, Elisa, Diana, Emily, Maya, his great grandson Domenic, and his other grandchildren from our blended families with Drew, Antonietta and Emma.

Pa was physically short but he was as strong as a bull. He was as good with a slingshot as King David. More importantly, he had a big heart!

On a more serious note, Pa was a solid man. He persevered and overcame many hardships and made a life for himself and his family. He was a relatively quiet man whose love, devotion, and dedication to us spoke volumes. Pa, we miss you beyond words. You will always live in our hearts.

If desired, donations made in memory of Emilio to Villa Colombo - Toronto Auxiliary would be appreciated.