It is with great sadness that the family of Duilio Antonioni announce his peaceful passing at home with them by his side on March 31, 2020 at the age of 82.
Duilio was born in Cuccurano, Italy July 22, 1937 on the family farm. His dreams led him to Canada in 1958 to start a new life. His heart never left Italy. In 1965 he returned home and found the love of his life and returned to Canada. Duilio was known as a devoted husband, a loving father, Nonno and Zio and an incredibly hard worker. He will always be remembered for the meticulous gardens he kept, his joy for cooking and wine making and for how well he took care of himself with daily visits to the gym.
In his 50 plus years working in the construction trade, his hands touched so many homes and so many lives. After retirement he stayed active helping family with projects. He was always there with a smile, ready to jump in whether it be small paint jobs, decks and sheds, bathrooms or total basement rebuilds.
Duilio was the beloved husband of Clara (nee Aiudi) for 54 years. They were inseparable; going for walks, cooking, travelling to Italy or simply sitting side by side on the couch. He was a loving father to Robert and Daniela and to daughter in-law Bonnie who he loved as his own. He taught them the value of hard work, honesty and the importance of family. He was cherished Nonno to Amanda, Jacqueline, Aliana, Brianna, Marissa, Sofia, and Nicholas.
He was dear brother of Verginio (Anna) of Cuccurano, Italy and predeceased by Rinaldo (Janet) of Chelmsford, Ontario. He was treasured Zio to Angelo, Sante, Simone, Kewaden, Wahnese,
He was also predeceased by his parents Renato and Noemia of Fano, Italy.
The family would like to thank all of the wonderful health care professionals from RVH Cancer Care Program, Southlake Regional Health Center and Bayshore Health Care. A special thanks to all of the in-home visiting nurses and doctors who were angels allowing them to be together as a family at this time. In addition, thank you to Dr. Carolyn Teng and Dr. Diana Visentin for all that you have done.
A private family service will be held at ADAMS FUNERAL HOME, Barrie. Services entrusted to St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Barrie. Memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.