Obituary of Antonio Rossi

Antonio “Tony” Rossi

July 26, 1933 - March 25, 2022

Antonio “Tony” Rossi was born and raised in Careri, Italy on July 26, 1933. In May 1953, Tony embarked “SS Roma” on voyage to North America. Ten days at sea, five days on rail and one loaf of bread, Tony was excited to join his older brothers, Giuseppe and Rocco near Cranbrook, B.C. Determined, Tony sought opportunities to learn skills while using those inherent of his Father, a Blacksmith.

 Tony’s first job in the Kootenays as a laborer paid $1.00/hr. He felt fortunate. For the next five years, Tony pursued employment in construction and foundry, in both Canada and US. He worked hard and refined his skills by day, attending English classes at night. Tony returned to Italy in 1958 and married his beloved wife of 56 years, Carmela Novella. Tony and Carmela settled in Cranbrook and started a family. Shortly after, Tony’s ambitions of providing and “building” a beautiful life for his family in Canada were further realized.

 He left his young family to attend trade school in Burnaby, B.C. and attained his journeyman carpentry ticket. A grand achievement for a young immigrant. His first home build, a 26’ x 26’ dream home at the time, stands tall and strong to this very day. Welcoming another brother, sister and their children to Cranbrook, the Rossi Family became part of the growing Italian community. Proud of their Italian heritage and culture, every and any occasion was celebrated with food and homemade wine. Not only was Tony a gifted carpenter, his talents were shown and celebrated with music, songs and dance. Of course, his beautiful dance partner Carmela, talented in her own right, was always the first to start the party.

Tony’s strong work ethic was unwavering. Those curious or courageous to work with him, knew Tony was meticulous and worked best, alone - “To get a job done right, you do it yourself”. And so he said and did; custom build homes for his growing family and other new home owners. Tony was always available to lend a hand, prepared with any tool or machinery required, he was happy to help anyone. Sometimes teach them a thing or two. He spoke highly of his mentors and employers, was respected and regarded as one of Cranbrook’s finest carpenters.

After 20+ years as a carpenter with Cranbrook School District, Tony retired and continued his passion for carpentry and woodwork in his modest 26’ x 26’ workshop. He preferred the grip of a hammer over a golf club and created furniture, bookcases, foot stools and indestructible toy boxes for his grandchildren. At 85 years of age, Tony’s final project was lovingly crafted for his eldest grand-daughter. Two 7’ tall hemlock bookcases, built with the skilled precision he practiced for 65 years. Throughout his life when not busy, Tony enjoyed fishing and gardening. His garden was a labor of love and although on a smaller scale, the last 8 summers Tony enjoyed nurturing the bountiful fruits of his labor, harvested for his daughters and their families.

 Tony was predeceased by his wife, Carmela in 2014. Life without Carmela was challenging for Tony, but after a few years, he started to enjoy grocery shopping, banking and any task requiring interaction with others. It was clear Tony enjoyed social interaction where he would share numerous stories. Just as precise and accurate as his work, his memory was undeniably on point. He was an intelligent man and enjoyed intellectual conversations, relating every possible outcome to what he knew best, carpentry.

Antonio is survived and will be deeply missed by daughters Josephine McLauchlin (Darrell), Silvana Rossi-Lindsay (Tim Lindsay), Toni-Lynn Card (Lee), Jennifer Rossi (Mike Thomson) and grandchildren - Sidnee (Nik), Anthony, Maygan, Ross, Sofia, Ashlyn, Elise, Isabel and Newborn Baby Mirella. Tony is also survived by brother Nunzio Rossi (Giudita) sister, Carmela Batti (Luigi), sisters-in law Rosa Rossi (Giuseppe), Kathy Rossi (Rocco), numerous nieces and nephews in Canada, US, Italy, Japan and Australia. Tony’s daughters and their families wish to acknowledge and express heartfelt gratitude to their Zia Mela Batti for the love, care and comfort given to their Father, especially during the past 8 years.

Pa, we will forever be grateful and proud of the Father you were to us - and will always be remembered by. The life lessons you patiently taught us will continue to be part of the family for generations. Sacrifices you selflessly endured for us - will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Pa. We love you.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday April 2, 2022 at St. Mary’s Parish in Cranbrook, 39 10^th Avenue South as well as livestreamed on our website. Interment to follow at Westlawn Cemetery Mausoleum Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, donations in Memory of Antonio Rossi may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com