On October 28, 2024, with family by his side, we said goodbye to Terry Scavarelli. Affectionately known as T and Uncle T, his vibrant spirit and infectious laughter touched all who crossed his path over his eighty-year journey through life. Born in June 1944 to Louise and Peter Scavarelli, he was raised in the heart of the East End, alongside his two younger brothers, Gary (Shelia) and Randy. The brotherly bond they forged in their youth remained steadfast and strong, throughout his life. Terry would often reminisce fondly of his days growing up in the East End and held dear the lifelong friendships he made there.
One evening, far from his East End roots, at a dance at the Great Hall in Chippewa Park, a Norwegian beauty Sigrid captured Terry’s heart. From there, they spent a lifetime together raising two wonderful children Brady (Mel) and Amber.
Terry spent much of his career at Bell Canada, never talking much about what he did but rather the many connections he made with his co-workers. He loved the game of hockey, and after hanging up his skates, he and his brothers took up coaching accompanied by a large dose of shenanigans both on and off the rink. Home sausage-making trials turned into a small family affair, with the opening of Mama Lou’s sausage, a popular Westfort joint affectionately named after his mom.
His tribute to family didn’t end there. Indeed, one of his greatest joys was forging opportunities to be present with his family and friends—and the larger the better! Terry’s contagious smile featured centrally at the countless family barbecues, golf, curling, bowling, baseball, and ski events he orchestrated. Any reason was a good one to bring family together, and the backyard pool served as the perfect setting for impromptu, festive gatherings.
Terry was also on speed dial for many in need of help—when something was broken, you could always rely on him to head over and lend a hand. After retirement, he was a regular at Brady’s shop, working on one project or another alongside his son. He treasured his Saturday morning social gathering at the shop with ‘the boys’.
Terry’s commitment to bringing folks together was also ritualized at home. Every Sunday, Sig, Brady, Mel, Amber, Tash and Nico gathered to share a meal. The invite was open to anyone else seeking connection or a delicious spaghetti dinner. No matter what brought you there, Terry always opened the door with a warm welcome, and sent you away with a belly well fed.
His grandchildren, Natasha and Nico, were his greatest pride and he radiated love for them. He was a staple on the sidelines for years of nightly sport practices and games, and he made sure that they always knew he was there for them, by their side for whatever came their way.
Toward the end of his journey, the dedicated staff on St. Joe’s 4S and his roommate Bill provided him with care and compassion and the family is forever grateful.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 12 pm to 3 pm at the Da Vinci Centre, 340 Waterloo Street South. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice in his honour. Arrangements entrusted to the Blake Funeral Chapel, 200 May Street South.
