Obituary of Giovanni Bernardo

It is with profound sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Giovanni on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. 

Born January 12, 1936, Savuto di Cleto, Italy, Giovanni married his much-loved wife in 1954, Tommasina (nee Carlucci), who passed away in 2022.

Giovanni and Tommasina emigrated from Italy in 1956, for a better life in Canada. They established their early roots in British Columbia, where Giovanni quickly acquired lifelong skills. They would bring their two sons into this world while living in Prince Rupert and eventually settle in Sault Ste Marie in 1966. Giovanni worked 25 years for Algoma Contractors. Shortly after retirement in 1993, Giovanni would take his landscaping hobby to another level, well into his late 70’s. His hobbies were his way to give back to his dear friends and make many friends along the way.

Giovanni and Tommasina would travel frequently over the last 40 years, to their home country, where they would restore and vacation in Giovanni’s paternal home, in Savutodi Cleto. 

Giovanni can best be described as courageous, outgoing, funny, hard-working, intelligent, unselfish, generous, empathetic, tireless, and a mentor. Every day would have purpose, and Giovanni made the most of every minute. Often times you would hear Giovanni say with a big smile, “are we just going to sit around, or get to work?”.

We would also say Giovanni was truly and dearly in love with Tommasina, his soulmate. He would grieve her passing until his last breath. A romantic soul to say the least. 

In summary, Giovanni was an inspiring role model. 

Giovanni leaves behind his two sons, Angelo and Oscar, daughters-in-law Sandra and Jennifer, grandchildren Cameron, Julia, Charlotte and Samantha, his sister Teresa, brother Batista, many extended family members from his 11 siblings and many, many friends.

Giovanni, and his infectious smile, will be missed.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with Father Jeff Shannon officiating. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation or the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) would be greatly appreciated.