Pasquale Sacino

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pasquale Sacino on Thursday, October 7, 2021.

Born in Ruvo del Mondo, Italy on March 27, 1937, Pasquale made the voyage to Fort William, Ontario in 1955 looking for a brighter future in Canada. He met his true love, Giuseppina Foglia and together they built a life together for over 60 years.

Pasquale was a hard worker who was determined to build a solid foundation before starting a family with his wife. He quickly established a reputation as being at the top of his field as a professional automotive spray painter. To balance the rather toxic environment his work presented, Pasquale was an avid walker who continued this daily ritual post-retirement. Rather than continue this healthy exercise alone, he would be seen walking with Giuseppina (Josie) in the neighbourhood, the marina, or wherever in the world their travels took them.

A man of many passions which included hunting, fishing, gardening, and wine-making, Pasquale also prided himself on being an exceptional bocce ball player. He had an uncanny ability to make people laugh with his repertoire of jokes, matched by his energetic display of dance moves at various family functions or community events. Raised Roman Catholic, he devoted his time to St. Dominic’s Church and was a strong advocate of his faith. He held many roles in the church from the early days on council in the East End to being President of the Council once the church was rebuilt in Northwood. His faith was matched by the love of his Italian heritage demonstrated by his devotion to the Principe de Piemonte Society (Da Vinci Centre). He enjoyed volunteering his time visiting members who were ill in hospital or provided comfort to families on behalf of the society. At many sporting functions or charity events, he was often asked to prepare grace or a simple prayer which affectionally earned him the name of “Father Pasquale” – a nickname he quite enjoyed. As an unofficial ambassador of Thunder Bay, he claimed he was blessed to live in the best place in the world for over 66 years – he called it “God’s country” no matter what season of the year.
What was most evident about Pasquale was the love he had for his wife and his family. A strong believer in spending quality time with his wife and three sons, he also cherished every friendship he made whether it was at work, church, or new neighbours that moved onto his street. He always made time for everyone and you would not soon forget his blue eyes or charming smile.

Survived by his wife Giuseppina (Foglia), his three children John (Linda), Frank, Dave (Julyjana) and four grandchildren: Anthony, Luca, Sofija and Benjamin, brother Gerrado (Elizabeth), sister Lucia (Antonio) Aloe, sister-in- laws Carmela, Immocolata, Angelina, Elena, Maxine and Rosa. He is also loved by many nieces, nephews and other relatives in Canada and Italy.

He was predeceased by his parents Giuseppe and Maria (Armiento), siblings Vincenzo, Carmela, Maria and Donato, brother in laws: Anthony Foglia, Anthony Miele, Nick Isernia, Giuseppe Galeotalanza, Sam Isernia, and sister-in-law, Loretta (Foglia).

We would like to thank the staff of 1A at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, St. Joseph’s Health Care Hospice Unit, and Dr. Andrew Migay for providing the care and compassion during his short illness.

Funeral Mass for the late Mr. Pasquale Sacino will be held on Thursday October 14, 2021 at St Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church at 11:00 am celebrated by Father Mike Mahoney. Those wishing to attend the service are asked to register on Pasquale’s page at www.sargentandson.com or call the Funeral Home 345-5351. Those wishing to attend virtually may do so on Sargent & Son Funeral Home Facebook page. A private interment will take place immediately after the mass at St. Andrew's Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday October 13, 2021 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church.

As directed by the Province of Ontario and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, COVID protocols are still being applied in group settings. Capacity is limited to allow for social distancing of 6 feet, a record of attendance must be maintained and wearing of masks or face coverings by everyone is mandatory for those attending the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family would kindly ask that should friends and family desire, donations made in memory of Pasquale to the Cancer Society of Canada. Online condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com.