Obituary of Andrea DiRienzo

Andrea "Andy" DiRienzo 1935 - 2014 It is with deep sorrow that the family of Andy DiRienzo announces his passing on Monday, December 15, 2014 at Joseph Creek Care Village in Cranbrook at 79 years of age. Andy was born on July 14, 1935 in Forino, Avellino, Italy. He was married on May 14, 1959, in Forino, to his love, Nicolina Fruncillo. He immigrated to Canada in 1959 and began working for CP Rail and continued working for them for 36 years. He was a devoted and caring husband, dad, and "papa". His grandchildren were his greatest love and he spent many, many hours with them doing a variety of activities. After he retired, when he wasn't with his grandchildren, he could be found in his yard gardening and pruning his many trees. Besides his love of gardening he enjoyed picnics, bocce, and Italian card games with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Nicolina; his three children: Teresa Luxton (Drew), Joe DiRienzo (Audrey Farch) and Mary-Ann MacKinnon (Dan); his grandchildren: Laura Ryan (Jeff), Andrew Luxton, and Connor and Rylind MacKinnon; one great grand child; one sister Geraldine and one brother Frank, both of Italy; one brother-in-law, Samuel Buonerba of Cranbrook; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Andrea and Teresa; three sisters: Maria, Josephine and Vincenza; and one brother Guiseppe. The family would really like to thank the staff at Joseph Creek Care Village, St. Mary's Pod, for the wonderful care given to our dad during his time there. Your care and compassion was very much appreciated. Prayers will be held on Friday, December 19, 2014 at 11:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cranbrook. Andy's funeral mass will take place at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cranbrook on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at 11:00 am. Interment will be in the Mausoleum in Westlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon, Okanagan/Kootenays Area Office, #4, 1551 - Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9M9. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com