With heavy hearts, the family of Mr. Antonio “Tony” Arvonio, age 47 years, announce his peaceful passing in Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Tony was born in Thunder Bay on March 21, 1975. Growing up in Westfort, Tony spent his early years riding his bike or skateboard throughout the neighbourhood, with his friends, looking for new adventures and enjoying the outdoors. With his curious nature, Tony later developed an interest in building things as he worked on cars with his dad, which led to his aspirations of becoming an Engineer.
Most of his free time was spent outdoors, either fishing, hunting, or camping with his buddies. Tony found solace and tranquility when casting his line into a remote lake as the sun came up over the horizon. He loved the challenge of grappling a steelhead out of the water, and the excitement of catching the next big one. He took pride in his craft, spending countless hours fastening egg sacs together and tying meticulous knots into his line to secure his lures and bait.
Tony was known for his kind and gentle soul. Living a quiet and content life with his parents, he always enjoyed time with family at Sunday dinners and weekends at Silver Islet relaxing by the lake. He was always ready with humorous quips and one-liners, especially about his sisters. Tony was known in the neighbourhood for his bright smile and a friendly wave or hello as he passed neighbours and friends on his daily walks. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.
Tony will be truly missed by his parents Giuseppe and Silvana; sisters Lucy (Lance) Goldberg, Anna (Victor) Oriecuia, and Carolina Arvonio (Barry Wojciechowski); his nephews, Nicholas and Logan Goldberg; his niece, Alexa Oriecuia and the many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends who live near and far.
He was predeceased by his grandparents Antonio & Lucia Arvonio, Giacomo & Anna Napolitano; his uncles Bruno Arvonio and Giuseppe Napolitano; aunt Maria Napolitano and cousin Kristen Avella.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre - Cancer Care for the wonderful care Tony received during the past few weeks, especially in his final hours. Special thank you to Dr. Joseph Del Paggio, Dr. Sonja Lubbers, Dr. Marlon Hagerty and Dr. Kevin Bezanson. As well as to the nursing team, especially nurses Dina, Ryan, Robert, Jessica, Amanda, and Olivia, who showed Tony much compassion. Also, thank you to Father James for his final blessing.
Funeral Mass will take place at St. Agnes Church on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at 2:00pm, celebrated by Fr. James Panikulam. Visitation will take place an hour prior to the service. Tony will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are in care of WESTFORT FUNERAL CHAPEL, 420 Gore Street West at James.
If friends desire, memorial donations in memory of Tony to the TBRHSF Northern Cancer Fund would be appreciated.
