Obituary of Antonio Chilelli

Tony, age 89, was called home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Born on April 10, 1936, in Cellara, Italy he was the beloved son of the late Rosa (Barone) and Vincenzo Chilelli.

Tony immigrated to Canada in August of 1953 and called Sault Ste. Marie his home ever since. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures like casting a line with his brothers or nephews on early mornings of fishing, tending to his garden and sharing his harvest, dancing to everything from tarantellas to rock and roll, pizza-making, or gathering family around the table (or in the garage) for espresso. He embraced it all with enthusiasm, heart, and humour. He loved a good road trip just as much as flying across the ocean to visit family in Italy or to explore new places. 

Above all else, Tony’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Rita (LePera); his children, Italo (Pina) and Rosalia; his granddaughters, Jenna (Tanner), Maria (John), and Olivia; and his newest joy these past thirteen months, his great-grandson, Tanner Antonio.

Tony’s brothers and sisters were a source of love, laughter and companionship throughout his life. He was predeceased by his siblings Maria (late Ermano), Battista/John (late Rita), and Francesco/Ciccio (Rosetta), and is survived by his sister Alda (late Emilio), and his brothers Ottorino/Dino (late Alice), and Guerino/Rino (Maria) and his Zia Nina (late Antonio) who has always been like a sister for him.

He was the beloved son-in-law of the late Michele and Teresa (Martino) LePera. Tony also shared a very close bond with all his brothers- and sisters-in-law. He was predeceased by Maria (late Stanislaus), Leonardo (Italia), Quinto (Laura), and Francesco/Franco (Gina), and is survived by Antonietta (late Francesco), Giovanni (Giuseppina), and Ugo (Rita).

He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, and their children as well as many cousins, friends and neighbours. His fur-baby Cheeko also misses him very much.

Tony had a strong work ethic, generous spirit, love of laughter, keen eye for a good deal, and brought his own home-grown hot peppers to family weddings and parties.  He was genuinely delighted by the visits of friends and family and made everyone feel welcomed and loved at his table, especially on Tuesdays. His legacy lives on in the memories he made, the seeds he shared, the soil he tilled, the stories he told, the jokes he happily repeated, and the deep love he had for his family.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service in the Chapel at 1:00 p.m. with Father Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial donations to the SAH Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Thank you to the many who cared for Tony at the Sault Area Hospital and a very special thank you to his PSW’s for the kindness and care they extended to him in his home.