Franco Rea

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It is with great sadness and very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Franco Rea on December 21, 2022, at the age of 89.

Franco was born on June 20, 1933, to Luigi and Annita Rea. Growing up in Ceprano, Italy, he met his beloved wife, Vincenza.

Franco is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Vincenza; his daughters Grace (Dave), and Anna (Mike); his grandchildren Jason (Vilija), Amanda (Mike), and Nicholas (Amanda); his great grandchildren Ayden, Emilia, and Connor; his sister Loreta (Biagio), his brother Arduino (Antonietta), his brother-in-law Bruno (Anna), his sisters-in-law Felicetta (Carmine deceased), and Margherita (Alfredo); and his many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law Cecilia and Natale Carlini, his brother Giorgio Predonzani, and sister-in-law Antonietta DeLellis.

Franco immigrated to Canada in 1958, without knowing a word of English and through the years, he proudly created a wonderful life for himself and his family. Although, he worked hard in construction for many years, the last 20 years before his retirement, he was a Custodian at St. Vincent de Paul Elementary School, where teachers and pupils quickly fell in love with him – and, he loved them.

Franco’s happy place was his garden – always a farmer at heart. He loved spending time tending to his vegetables, and he could never have too many tomatoes!

Ultimately, Franco was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, who enjoyed family gatherings to celebrate events and holidays. He loved socializing, always inviting people into his home to eat and drink his home-made wine. He enjoyed and thrived on being part of his Ceprano Social Club. He loved to dance at all the parties – Tom Jones’ “Delilah” was one of his favourites to dance to! Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family and friends.

Franco’s family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the amazing Alderwood staff at the Village of Humber Heights Long Term Care Home (Toronto, Ontario) for the incredible care that they provided to him over the last year. The staff will remember him for his love of food! We are so grateful and full of appreciation. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Franco will be remembered with much love and fondness by his family near and far, friends, neighbours, and church family. He will be dearly missed and will remain in our hearts forever