It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Antonio “Tony” Savella on Wednesday, November 9, 2022 in his 89th year. Antonio is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 65 years, Michelina.  Loving father of Saverina, Maria Luisa and Anna and sons-in-law Tony and Scott.  Cherished grandfather to Carmela, Michelle, Michael and John. He was affectionately known as Nonno Tony.  Antonio was predeceased by his parents Carlo Savella and Saveria Del Vicario and by his older brother Giuseppe.   He leaves behind his younger brother Michele (Graziella) of Montreal and his sister-in-law, Francesca of Vaughan and his nieces and nephews.

Antonio left his birthplace of Panni, in the Province of Foggia, Italy, at the age of 17, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax on a blustery March day in 1952. From Pier 21, he boarded a train for a three-day trip that took him to his final destination, Toronto. Antonio married Michelina, the love of his life, in 1957 in Boston, Massachusetts, where Michelina lived at the time.

For over 37 years, Antonio worked for the Canadian National Railway.  He was one of the many immigrant workers who helped build Canada’s railway system.  His family would not see him for days at a time as he worked long hours in the field laying down railway track.  When driving across Ontario and crossing any railway track, Antonio would proudly point out the tracks he helped lay and the railway bridges he helped build.  Despite the long hours often worked, he was so proud he could give back to the country that provided a greater opportunity for him and his family.

Antonio was jovial, always smiling and had a great sense of humour.  He loved to tell stories to his children and grandchildren about his ancestry and his Italian heritage, which helped his daughters construct their family tree.  A warm and devoted family man, Antonio loved family get-togethers and spending time with his four beloved grandchildren whom he adored. He would drop everything to help his daughters and their families.  He loved his sons-in-law and considered them to be the sons he never had.  Antonio was fiercely proud of his family, his large vegetable garden and his home.  He enjoyed playing bocce, attending mass, keeping active, and helping his family, friends and neighbours.  He always thought of his family and others first before he thought of himself.  He will be immensely missed by all of them.

It will be so hard to imagine a world without him.  He will be forever in the hearts of all who knew him.  Love you always.

The family extends a special thanks to all the medical people at Trillium Mississauga Hospital and St. Joseph’s Health Centre who cared for Antonio in his final few months.  Memorial Donations to either the Heart & Stroke Foundation or St. Leo's Parish would be gratefully appreciated.