On August 26th, 2021, Arnold Melchior of Barrie, Ontario passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 87. He was nothing short of a legend to all who knew him. His warm, kind and joyous spirit extended to everyone he met.
Arnold leaves behind Gemma Melchior, his beloved and devoted wife of 69 years. Predeceased by his parents Mariana and Ugo, his sister Anna, and son Mario. Honoured father of Anna Rinaldi (late Frank), and Dino Melchior. Treasured grandfather of Sabrina Rinaldi (Garnet Armstrong), Giulia Rinaldi, Andrew Rinaldi, Arnold Melchior, and Maria Melchior. Cherished great-grandfather of Eyadien Shewfelt, Giavanna Melchior, and Gianni Rinaldi. He is also loved and adored by his extended family back in Italy and those in Canada. Arnold will surely be missed by all who knew him, but he will no doubt live on in their hearts and memories.
Born in the town of Pozzalis, Rive D’Arcano, Italy, Arnold first met his childhood sweetheart, Gemma, in Kindergarten. Shortly after marrying, they immigrated to Ontario in 1956, where Anna Maria and Dino were born soon thereafter.
Arnold was a hard worker and established himself as a skilled and respected Brick Layer, becoming the owner of Melchior Masonry. Later, he earned the position of Property Manager at Melchior Management where he was genuinely adored by all the staff and workers. He always had a smile, a compliment, or a joke ready for anyone with whom he spent time. That, combined with his calm, loving, and positive attitude culminated in his own unique and special kind of magic. His passion, his love for life and, most especially, for his family, was felt by all.
Visitation will take place at the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie on Monday, August 30th, 2021 from 1 – 3 and 6 – 8 p.m. Masks, physical distancing, and capacity limitations are mandatory. A private family service will be held on Tuesday, August 31st, with livestream access available to the public at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at St. Mary’s cemetery, Barrie.
If desired, donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to the RVH Youth Mental Health Services or Princess Margaret Hospital Cancer Centre (Prostate) and are greatly appreciated by the family.
For livestream of the service or to share online memories and condolences, please visit www.steckleygooderham.com