Alma Ongaro

It is with great sadness that the family of Alma Ongaro announces her sudden passing on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at Hogarth Riverview Manor. Alma was born December 18, 1936 in Fort William. She married Germano Ongaro on November 18, 1961. They moved to their home on Edward Street in 1972 where they raised their four children. Together they loved travelling, dancing at the Polish Hall on Saturday nights and many volunteer and social activities with their family, friends and fellow parishioners at St. Dominic's Church, where she was a Charter Member of the Catholic Women's League as well as a member of the Seniors Club.

Following her husband's passing in 1988, she continued to be a very active and dedicated volunteer within her Church community and Catholic Women's League. She also enjoyed many years as a volunteer with Thunder Bay Christmas Cheer Fund and was a proud Election Returning Officer.

Family was everything to Alma and she enjoyed Sunday morning coffee and family dinners until the time she left her apartment on Edward Street, where she lived for nearly 30 years. She was a very proud Nona and she loved and supported her 'kiddies' - her grandchildren, in whatever they did. Her graduation picture wall was truly a source of pride. The sign on her door 'Welcome to Nona's house. Kid's Spoiled while you wait!'

Alma is survived by her children and her grandchildren. Rick (Kathy) Ongaro, Kimberly (Jesse), Amy and Matthew; Ron (Lori-Ann) Ongaro, Emily (Cameron) Greer, and Zoe (Nick); Cathy (John) Jelaca, Justin, Taryn and Katie; John (Susan) Ongaro, Carsyn and Jaquelyn; brother, Dennis (Mary-Ann) Bortolon; sister Sandra (Barrie) Rooks; brother-in-law, Bill Willis; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Germano Ongaro, sister, Arlene Willis and parents Linda and Andrea Bortolon.

The family wishes to extend their sincerest thanks and appreciation to Dr. Storkson of Mountdale Medical Centre; vascular surgeons, Dr. MacDonald, Dr. Osman and Dr. Ingves; the caring and professional staff at TBRHSC, St. Joseph's Care Group, Hogarth Riverview Manor (TCU and Birch) and the pharmacy staff at Shoppers Northwood and Oak Medical Pharmacy.

Finally, we would especially like to thank those that always kept in close contact with her. Family from near and far, the members of the '#! Committee', her many CWL and Seniors club friends, and her neighbors. Your numerous phone calls, especially in recent months were very important to her. Please know that she cherished each and every one of you.

Due to current restrictions, a private family service will be held on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Blake's Funeral Chapel. Those wishing to attend the service may do so virtually on the Blake's Funeral Chapel Facebook page (facebook.com/BlakeFuneralChapel). A Memorial Mass in Alma's honour will be held at a later date, when current gathering restrictions have been lifted.