elevated H1Hi0 August 11, 1944 – February 1, 2021

elevated H1Hi0 It is with heartfelt sadness that the family of Vincenzo (Vince) Calabretta announces his death due to complications from COVID 19.

elevated H1Hi0 Vince was born in Isca Sull’Ionio, Calabria and immigrated to Toronto at the age of 16.  He was the youngest son of Teresina and Vito Antonio and is survived by his youngest sister, Maria in Italy, his sisters-in-law Franca (Marziale) and Gesa (Sinibaldo) and many cousins and devoted nieces and nephews in Toronto, Montreal and Italy. He was predeceased by his sister Elvira and his brothers, Marziale, Antonio Sinibaldo and Celestino.

elevated H1Hi0 Vince lived a simple life but loved cars, shoes and being around his loving family. He never married and his siblings and their respective families guided him through life and he was always surrounded by love.

elevated H1Hi0 After immigrating, Vince held a number of jobs including driving a delivery truck and working as a tool and die maker. He then worked at Canada Post as a package handler and his 25th anniversary watch and his post office uniform were among his prized possessions.

elevated H1Hi0 Vince’s life was met with many disappointments and challenges including mental illness and other health issues. Despite this, he worked hard and he always had a smile on his face – made even wider when he saw family.

elevated H1Hi0 When he first came to Canada, he initially lived with his brother Marziale and sister-in-law Franca. His nephews Tony and John looked up to him and regarded him as their older brother. Vince was proud to eventually own his own home for several years. Unfortunately, in his later years, he required assisted living – first at AMICA where he received tremendous support from staff, especially Leanne, and then settling at Elm Grove Living Centre where he was loved, respected and received exceptional care.  Staff held a special place in his heart and he undoubtedly held a special place in theirs. Recreational Respite staff, notably Petrina and Mallory, enriched his life with laughter and joy through the wonderful outdoor adventures they introduced him to.  The family is forever grateful for the remarkable and loving care everyone who worked with him provided our dear Uncle Vince.

elevated H1Hi0 The family would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the excellent staff on 6B, Toronto Western Hospital, who cared for Vince selflessly and stepped in for the family when we could not physically be with him due to COVID restrictions.

elevated H1Hi0 Just as Uncle Vince brightened our lives with his smiles, in his memory, we ask that you offer a smile to a stranger, and one by one, brighten the world.

elevated H1Hi0 If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to CAMH would be appreciated by the family. 

elevated H1Hi0 In light of the current COVID 19 Pandemic, the family will be having a private family Funeral Service on Friday February 5, 2021 at 10:30am. To watch the Service live, please click the link below. 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE SERVICE