Obituary of Alessandro Castelli
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Alessandro (Alex) Castelli’s passing on Sunday, September 25th, 2022 in his 74th year. He left us, as he would have wanted, surrounded by his family at home in St. Catharines. Beloved husband of Anna Castelli for 51 years. Much-loved father of Joseph Castelli (Anna Ponzani) and MaryLisa Castelli (Mike Corvinelli). Proud and doting grandfather to his 4 grandchildren (David, Daniel, Sophia and Sarah). He will also be truly missed by his siblings (Maria & Antonietta) and many family members in Italy.
Alessandro was born in San Giorgio a Liri, Italy. Like many men of his generation, he came to Canada in 1967, in search of a better future. In 1977 he decided to become an entrepreneur and started a painting company, which he owned and operated up until his diagnosis in the fall of 2020. Through this business, he made several friends, and looked forward to his morning gatherings at the local Tim Hortons! He was fortunate to be part of a close community, and surrounded by many people, who over the years became part of his family. With them, he enjoyed many meals and celebrations. Large gatherings were a regular occurrence during tomato sauce season in the summer, wine making in the fall and sausage making in the winter. He was also a passionate gardener, spending countless hours over the summer tending to every plant and every tree. Tomatoes were his favorite. Over the winter, he would take to home repairs, often replacing things before their time. When help was needed, he quickly answered, including those frequent trips to Toronto where he would use his many skills to help his children and grandchildren. A global traveler he was not, preferring instead the firm soil under his feet. He will always be remembered for his kindness, humility, generosity and most of all his warm smile.
We will forever be grateful to all the staff at the Walker Family Cancer Centre (Dr. Vandermeer, Dr. Conen), the Oncology inpatient unit at Niagara Health, the St. Elizabeth Clinic and his GP Dr. Paolone. Their care and compassion will forever be appreciated. A special thank-you to Andrea D. for her remarkable kindness and care during Alex's final days. To the many other friends and neighbors, who helped Alex during the course of his illness, whether with gardening or a phone call, we Thank-You!
The family will receive friends at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street, on Tuesday September 27, 2022, from 2- 4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with Vigil Prayers held in the funeral home at 3:00 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated at St. Alfred Roman Catholic Church, 272 Vine St., on Wednesday September 28, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. Entombment to follow at Westminister Cemetery, 5830 Bathhurst Street,Toronto. Reception at Westminster to follow. All friends and family are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Walker Family Cancer Centre in St. Catharines.