Luigi “Louie” Benincasa

Mr. Luigi “Louie” Benincasa, age 88 years, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 14, 2022 in St. Joseph's Hospital with his family by his side.

Luigi was born in Belsito, Cosenza, Italy on February 25, 1933 to Antonio and Luisa Benincasa. He immigrated to Canada in 1953 with $20 dollars in his pocket, and dreams of a better life.

Like many new comers, Dad began working for the Railroad until 1957, at which time he started working at Abitibi Provincial Papers until his retirement in 1992.

He was a long-time member of the Italian Society of Port Arthur, where he could be found playing cards in the member’s club room. Dad was also a long time member of the Canada Games Complex where he enjoyed keeping active and socializing with others.

Dad was a very outgoing man who always had a story to tell or a joke to share.

Our Dad could always be found outside watching his birds, and tending to his gardens which he took great pride in and shared whatever bounty he had at the end of the year with his family, friends and neighbors.

He loved playing his accordion, listening to Italian music, and was a wonderful dancer. He was also very well known for his homemade wine and took great joy sharing it with those around him, and often referred to it as “his special juice”.

Papa was a very proud man, who lived life, his way, right to the very end.

He will be sadly missed by his children Marie Friday, Tony, Marcella (Andy Hagar), and Angelina Benincasa; his grandchildren Thomas (Kaylynn) Friday, Natalia, Dante, Mitchell (Chelsea Lyons) and Sheldon Benincasa; great-grandchildren Parker, Oliver, Elina, Cierra and Levi; siblings Maria (Italy), Frank, Carmela (Hamilton), Joe, Ida, Rosetta, Mario and Vincenza (Italy).

He was predeceased by his parents, Antonio and Luisa; sister Angelina and brother John in infancy.

With the dedication, care and love from his family, Dad was able to remain in his home for as long as possible.

We his children would like to say a special thank you to the following:

Our brother in law Andy, for always being there throughout the years. You especially went above and beyond to not only support our dad towards end, but all of us as well. Know that Dad regarded you as one of his own.

Special thanks to Home and Community Care Support Services, Paramed and the staff on 4N at St. Joseph’s Hospital for their care and compassion.

Cremation has taken place and a Funeral Mass will be held in St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 10:30am, celebrated by Fr. Luigi Filippini. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements have been entrusted to EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley Street at Algoma. Live streaming will be available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufA_zqGSf2U

Due to Provincial Restrictions, seating is limited. Please RSVP via Luigi's homepage on the everestofthunderbay.com website. Wearing of masks and maintaining 6 foot distancing is mandatory. A record of attendees will be maintained.

If friends desire, memorial donations in memory of Luigi Benincasa can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com