It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, nonno, partner, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, compari, and friend Alfredo.
Alfredo was born in Borboruso, Cosenza, Calabria, Italia where he lived with his mother, father, and siblings. After the death of his father, Alfredo and his family encountered many hardships, and he was forced to grow up quickly. He chose to immigrate to Canada in search of a better future with his wife Concetta. Together they raised three children: Luccio, Fiorella, and Marina.
While Canada became his new home, Alfredo always celebrated his Italian culture. He always carried the bandiera Italiana, preserving the memories and traditions of Italy. In 1968, he called his brother Vincenzo to join him in Canada, and the following year, his mother Saveria and twin brothers, Rosario and Santo, arrived as well.
When Alfredo moved to Port Arthur, he was proud to join the group of many immigrants who helped build the city. He worked several construction jobs until he found his favourite career choice: being a bartender. He was a great friend, advice giver, and comedian.
For 67 years Alfredo was a devoted member and familiar face at the Italian Hall on Algoma St., where he warmly greeted friends and shared stories over an espresso. His joy came from being with his brothers, compari’s, and closest friends in the Club Room. A true pro at Briscola and Scopa, he was always up for a friendly game at the card table. His infectious laughter was at the heart of every get-together, especially when he and his brothers and compari’s would get into debates about soccer teams and card games. The Hall was like a second home, where everyone would gather to share friendship and culture. It was always more than just a get-together; it was a real brotherhood where culture and tradition were shared, and unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships were created.
Alfredo enjoyed spending his summers at Pass Lake with his partner of 36 years, Beverly, who filled his life with love and companionship. “Freddy’s” larger than life personality earned him the nickname “Tarzan” around Pass Lake as he would laugh and enjoy weekends away with a Black Label in hand. Whether it was a late-night bonfire, family gathering, sitting by his garden, or under his grape vines Alfredo could often be found playing his favourite Italian songs on his accordion. Playing and hearing Italian music always brought him so much joy.
Alfredo had a heart overflowing with generosity, always welcoming visitors with open arms, and never once thinking twice about letting someone leave his house empty-handed – the joy of giving was his greatest treasure.
Alfredo leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and culture that will live on through his children, grandchildren, and loved ones. He will be deeply missed by his beloved children: Luccio (Silvana) Rizzo, Fiorella (Louis) Nadin, and Marina Rizzo, as well as his grandchildren whom he was very proud of: Dustin, Lucas (Darcel), Leah (Domenico), and Adrian.
His siblings and their families: Giuseppina Venturo and family (Australia), Domenico (Pina) Rizzo and family (Australia), Ada Rizzo (sister-in-law) and family, Rosario (Gina) Rizzo and family, Santo (Terry) Rizzo and family, Mauro Piccolo (brother in law, Italy), and numerous family members in Australia, Italy, Winnipeg, and other parts of Canada.
He is also lovingly remembered and missed by his partner, Beverly McGonigal, and her family whom he shared many fond memories with.
Alfredo is predeceased by his parents Saverio Costanzo and Saveria Rizzo, Saverio Rizzo (child in infancy), his siblings Angelo (Rosa) Costanzo (brother and sister in law), Vincenzo Rizzo (brother), Giuseppe (Carmella) Costanzo (brother and sister in law), Dina Piccolo (sister), Michele Venturo (brother in law), Luigi Fragale (cousin), Giuseppe and Cienza Talarico (cousins), and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins in Canada, Australia, and Italy.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff from 5 North at St. Joseph’s Care Group, as well as Dr. Frank Nigro, Dr. Baron, Dr. DeBaker, and Dr. Bon. A special thank you to the incredible group of caregivers and community paramedics for their compassionate care.
Funeral services for Alfredo will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 1:00pm when family and friends will gather in St. Anthony's R.C. Church for the Funeral Mass celebrated by Rev. Luigi Filippini. The Mass will be livestreamed via St. Anthony's R.C. Church's Youtube page. Visitations will be 1 hour prior to the Mass. Following the Mass, Alfredo will be laid to rest at St. Andrew's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Alfredo’s memory to St. Joseph’s Care Group or St. Anthony’s R.C. Church.
We will never forget his words of wisdom, giant heart, and his famous lines… “famme u telefonu”. Non dimenticheremo mai la tua generosità. Ti vogliamo bene – figli e nipote
“Nella vita le cose che contano sono le persone che ami, i ricordi che lasci quelli che ti porti dietro”
Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
