Salvatore "Sal" Franzese

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our family patriarch, Salvatore "Sal" Franzese. Sal, age 83 years, passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Nola, provincia di Napoli, Italy on November 15, 1929. He came to Canada in January 1955 at the age of 25. Sal appreciated his new life in Canada and was a proud Canadian. He began S. Franzese Trucking Company in the 1960's, running it successfully for over 40 years. He honed his natural talents in mechanics and heavy equipment with a strong work ethic. He was frequently called upon to share his expert advice. Sal's working career brought him to many remote and interesting locations and led to lasting friendships throughout Northwestern Ontario. Sal was passionate about hunting and fishing, picking mushrooms and enjoyed many years of camping at Lac de Milles Lacs with the Mud Bay gang. Preparations for his outdoor excursions were always monumental and his "survival kits" were legendary. With his beloved buddies he shared many hunting and fishing adventures. Sal's garden was a great source of pleasure for him, working alongside family members who were always enlightened by his lively directions. Snack breaks always included grapes, watermelon and plums from his trees. He was very proud of his Italian heritage, making wine, sausages and preserving tomatoes. He relished these week-end events and sharing his culture with his family and friends. His 'back in Italy' stories reminiscing about daring escapades and misadventures highlighted his unique character. Saturday night hockey games and curling matches on TV were always on his schedule. He enjoyed expressing and defending strong opinions on numerous subjects and current events. Sal was a founding member of the Principe di Piemonte and held several executive positions at the DaVinci Centre over his years of service. Above all else family was paramount in Sal's life. He married his wife Maria 58 years ago. Together they made a vibrant couple, hosting numerous guests and family gatherings in their home. Maria was devoted to him, giving him several menu choices for every meal and seeing to his every need. He disliked eating out because he knew he had the best cook in the city. Sal cherished his children and grandchildren and was happiest when his entire family was together. He lived for his grandchildren. He always expressed how proud he was of their many achievements in hockey, music, school and their careers. They could do no wrong in his eyes. It was important to him that he pass on his knowledge and skills to them, even how to cheat in a game of "ciucc". He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Maria; children Linda Sinnemaki (Dennis), Anna Tocheri (Paul) and grandchildren Jeffrey and Lauren Sinnemaki and Julia and Georgia Tocheri; sister-in-law Rosa Franzese; sister Lucia in Italy; nephews Jim (Judy) and Jerry (Jonna) Franzese and niece Mary Garlick (Wayne) along with their families. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives in Canada and Italy also survive. He was predeceased by his parents Giacomo and Fortuna Franzese; brothers Erasmo, Felice, Pepino, Gesuel, Giunoefo and Giovanni; sisters Vincenzia and Rosina. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2013 leaving the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James at 11:45AM to St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church for the Funeral Mass at 12:10PM celebrated by Father James Panikulam. A private family interment will follow in Mountainview Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday evening after 7:00PM with Vigil Prayers being offered at 8:00PM in the chapel. If friends so desire memorial donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Diabetes Association would be appreciated. "Sal cherished life" Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com"