Obituary of Vincenzo Valela

Passed away in his 95th year on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at the Sault Area Hospital with the support and love of his family. Born November 4, 1929 in Simbario, Calabria, Italy.  Vincenzo is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Caterina (Rosso). Proud father of Fortunato (Natalie), Dominic, and Katia McAllister (Michael).  Vincenzo was the best Nono of Nicholas (Matt), Christopher (Ashley), Alexander and Liam McAllister.

Vincenzo is predeceased by his parents Fortunato Valela and Caterina (Bertucci) and his father-in-law and mother-in-law Domenico Rosso and Maria Rosa (Lamantea). Survived by his brothers Francesco (Maria), Antonio (Angelina,) Rocco (Lucia). Brother-in-law of the late Maria Varano (Giuseppe), late Francesco Rosso (Elvira), late Domenico Rosso (Concetta), Elisabetta Renda (late Vincenzo), late Giuseppe Rosso (late Rosina), Nicola Rosso (Dina), Salvatore Rosso (Caterina), Rosina Nardi (Vito). He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

Vincenzo left Italy as a young man in search of a better life and moved to Germany, France then finally settling in Canada with his young family.  He was very proud of the fact that he “left his mark” in every country he lived in by having a child in each; as he would say “le tre bandiere” meaning three flags. In his 58 years while living in Canada he was determined to provide for his family. He instilled these hardworking values in his children, grandchildren and was proud to have worked at Brandes Aggregates and Algoma Steel. Vincenzo was a wonderful storyteller and those who knew him will remember him through his wonderful stories that he loved to share to all those who would listen. He enjoyed the company of his family and would spend hours playing cards with them. Being one who enjoyed nature you could always find him outside in the warm months walking, gardening and most recently enjoying time by the lake.  He was most proud of his children and grandchildren and that each of them took advantage of receiving an education to better their lives. He wanted them to have the opportunities that he could not.  Mostly, he spent days with the love of his life, Caterina, as they would always reminisce while enjoying the food they loved.  Vincenzo was such a person of faith and will take great comfort that he has been reunited with loved ones who have passed.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Funeral Mass to be held at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church (71 Estelle St.) at 12:00 noon with Father Trevor Scarfone officiating. Entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial donations to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation Critical Care Fund would be greatly appreciated by the family. Special thanks to Dr. Maione, Dr. Kargbo, Dr. Dawson and staff of 3C who took such good care of Vincenzo.