Mr. Armando Fanti, age 80 years, passed away peacefully in St. Joseph’s Hospital on Friday, May 1st, 2015, with his family at his side.
Armando was born September 16th, 1934 in Mione, Italy to Giovanni and Carolina Fanti. At an early age, Armando learned the value of hard work as he apprenticed to become a cabinet-maker. He immigrated to Canada in 1957 in search of work and located in Fort William.
He worked for several employers before he opened up his own successful business, A.Fanti Cabinets, where he honed his craft for 35 years. Upon his retirement, he continued his trade at home in “Nonno’s” garage where many people came to see him for help, friendship and even the occasional glass of wine.
He was a generous man who was always willing to help others, especially his family. He was an active member of St. Agnes Parish as well as the Da Vinci Centre where he spent many hours volunteering his time at the spaghetti dinners and various other functions.
Armando met Trudi while attending English school and they later married on October 23rd, 1965 and spent the past 49 years together. He will be missed by Trudi, and his 3 sons Michael (Kelli), Robert (Caroline), and Carlo (Cindy). He will also be missed by his grandchildren Jared, Ryan, Evan, Nathan, Jordan, Isabella and Olivia, as well as his brother-in-law Alfred Schuster (Elfriede), sister-in-law Lore, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Armando was very proud of his family and especially his grandchildren whom he loved dearly. He was a hard working man and instilled this value upon his children and is known for his famous expression: “do what you can do today, not tomorrow”. Armando also enjoyed many years at Dog Lake with his family and close friend Ollie whose company was always welcomed.
He also hosted his own annual Italian picnic with many of his close friends where they enjoyed many good laughs, wine and food.
He was pre-deceased by his parents, his two brothers Angelo and Celestino and his sisters Augusta, Sofia and Cesarina.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 6th, 2015 at St. Agnes Parish beginning at 12:10pm to be celebrated by Fr. James Panikulam. Prayers will be held on Tuesday May 5th at 7:45 pm at St. Agnes Parish with visitation commencing at 7:00pm.Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Operation Smile (operationsmile.org) or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 332 North May Street.
