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Reno Bertoia Obituary
126 Entries
September 8, 2011
Dear Bertoia Family,
As a kid I collected baseball cards and I remember Reno Bertoria's was one of them. It was only later that I found out that he had been born in Italy. I am a second generation Italian-American whose grandparents were born in the Piedmont region of Italy. Regardless of our generation, we of Italian heritage should always be proud of the accomplishments of people like Mr. Bertoia.
Regards
Gerald Veiluva, Oakland, California
Eduarda Matos
June 7, 2011
Dear Bertoia Family:
I just found out today that Mr. Bertoia passed away. I am so sad for your loss. Mr. Bertoia was my Grade 12 history teacher at Assumption (1984-85), and what an amazing influence he had on me. He inspired me to believe that the poor immigrant kid who put Napoleon on trial in our history class could go on to be a successful corporate lawyer. Many years after being his student, I went back to Windsor for a visit and saw an article in the paper about Mr. Bertoia. I thought of looking up his number and giving him a call, just to say hello and thank you. I also wanted to let him know that I did become that corporate lawyer he saw in me. I never did call him, and that is my biggest regret. So today I just wanted to tell you, his family, about the amazing influence Mr. Bertoia had on my life.
Thank you,
Eduarda Matos
Fr. John Borean
May 11, 2011
Dear Bertoia family,
By chance I happened to find Reno Bertoia's obituary in the Toronto Globe. What a wonderful life! I am a catholic priest and also a son of Friulan immigrants and seeing what Reno accomplished in his life makes me proud to be Friulan. I am sure you are so proud of such a wise and good man. I am truly moved by Reno's life that I had to write to you. My prayers for such a great man.
Fr. John Borean
St. Clare of assisi Church, Woodbridge, On
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Gary Lamphier
May 5, 2011
To the Bertoia family,
My wife Antoinette (Ferrarini) and I were very fortunate to have Reno as our grade 12 history teacher at Assumption in the 1970s. We of course knew he was a former pro baseball star, but what struck us most was his humility, his humanity, his humour and his concern for the well being of his students. In short, he was a great guy, an inspiring human being, and he leaves an indelible mark on our lives, almost 40 years later. Our sincere condolences to you.
Regards,
Gary & Antoinette Lamphier
Edmonton, Alberta
Denise Dobkowski-Hammond
April 30, 2011
Gina and the Bertoia family:
I was sad to read this article while doing an internet search about Reno for a blog entry yesterday.
My uncle, Enrico Iuston, was very proud of Reno and always had the game on the radio. My mother Norma occassionally worked for Reno's mother's catering business. I had the pleasure of selling Julie her wedding gown in the 60's when I worked at Hudson's.
Unfortunately, I never met Reno, but I was a fan of his while growing up in Detroit. He came from a wonderful family and my thoughts are with all of you at this time.
May you find peace in his memory.
Deb Remekie
April 21, 2011
To Gina, Ruth, Carl and the Bertoia Family,
When I saw the article about the loss of Reno I was stunned. This is a man who made me feel welcome in your home during those high school days when I craved being with a family instead of the lunch room in the afternoon.
Your father kept his doors (and fridge) open and treated me as if he had known me all of his life. For 30 years after finishing high school, he continued to keep up with what I’ve been doing, almost like he kept updated films about everyone he knew. He would flash back to how proud he was of the relay team Gina and I were a part of in high school.
He spoke of the pride he had with the support Walkerville students and teachers gave one another after the accident our team was in, and learning our beloved coach and teacher died. He said he was bewildered when he heard about how our team somehow located each other on the highway, and took care of one another throughout the entire ordeal.
He knew about everything from brain surgery I had later in life, to where I worked, to my wedding anniversaries, each time we talked during our repeated grocery shopping meetings. He recently chased after me to give me a hug after singing the anthem for a national track and field event. His statement to me was “Man, I’m just as proud of you now as I was when you and my ‘girl’ ran together in high school.”
Our last discussion was when we ran into each other at the riverfront last summer. When he asked me what I was doing that summer, I told him my husband and I were going to Rome. He said “I know addiction is a bad thing, but make sure you check out Italian gelato as soon as you get there. Seriously –you’ll need rehab when you come back home. There ain't nothin' like it!”
But it is his strength to remain humble that has made me even more proud to say that I knew him. I had no idea he was a professional athlete until reading articles about him not long ago in the paper. The fact that he was a legacy just became news to me since his loss. It was not something that was bragged about in all of the years I have known your family.
The Lord has a special place for people as humble and caring as he was. My thoughts and heart are for you, and the entire Bertoia family.
Luv, Deb Remekie
Gerry Finnegan
April 20, 2011
The influence that Mr. Bertoia had on young men like myself at Assumption during the early 70's, was incredible. Any success I have had in my personal and professional life can be traced back to the structure and guidance that I recieved from teachers and mentors like Reno Bertoia.
Gerry Finnegan Assumption "74"
April 20, 2011
I was very sad to hear that Reno had passed away. I got to know the Bertoia family as a child because my mother and his mother, Rina were very best friends. In fact, my mother is Reno's Godmother. We visited the family many times during my childhood. They were an exceptionally nice family. I have many fond memories of the Bertoia family.
I still remember the year Reno played AAA baseball in three leagues and batted over 300.
It was an honour and pleasure to know Reno. He was a very friendly, wonderful person.
Larry Zilli and Family
Marie Dziadura
April 20, 2011
The Bertoia Family - The family of the late Gene Dziadura share the sadness you are feeling in the loss of your husband and father Reno. Gene always admired and had the highest regard and respect for Reno. Our warmest condolences to you all at this difficult time. May he rest in peace. Sincerely Marie Dziadura and Family
Maureen Dean
April 20, 2011
Ruth, Dante & family,
I'm so sorry.
Thinking of you during this very sad time.
Carla Winterbottom
April 19, 2011
My condolences to Ruth and Gina, and family.
Kevin Venerus
April 19, 2011
Mr. Bertoia was a gifted teacher who inspired many in so many ways. I feel truly thankful, and fortunate to have been a student of Mr. Bertoia.
Dr. Kevin Venerus
Holy Names '95
April 19, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Dr. Joan
Lori
J dianne Smith
April 19, 2011
To the Bertoia Family
"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. LOVE leaves a memory no one can steal"
May your hearts continue to be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times. Celebrate a life well lived.
Katelyn Lobzun
April 19, 2011
I'm sorry for your loss Miss. Bertoia.
Carole Turner
April 19, 2011
Gina,
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your father. In reading the many guestbook entries, I can see how truly influential and loved he was. May sweet memories comfort you...
My Tiger
Jackie McVittie
April 19, 2011
I am so thankful that I was able to see Mr Bertoia at Fr Cullen's memorial and share a few moments and a photo with him. A dear, sweet man he was. He will surely be missed. The family shared a wonderful tribute at Windsor Chapel.
Alan Rossell
April 19, 2011
Mr.Bertoia was my home room teacher at Corpus Christi and he has always been a special person.There is no doubt as to where his soul has gone.
Tammy Wheeler
April 19, 2011
Upon hearing of Mr. Bertoia's passing, I could only think that his passion for teaching was only superceded by his desire to see his students learn. I was a student of Mr. Bertoia's in the early 80's and have only fond memories.
My deepest condolences to the family.
Tammy Wheeler (Hall)- Assumption '84
Joe Birch
April 18, 2011
I was not surprised when reading this guest book of the love and admiration by the lucky ones who had the pleasure to meet Reno. To be taught, to be coached by him. He will be sadly missed. My condolences to the Bertoia family
Mary Ellen Gosselin-Muir
April 18, 2011
Mr Bertoia taught me history at Corpus Christi High School (before it became F.J. Brennan). I was in his grade 11 history class when Kennedy was assasinated and I can still see him at the front of the class leading us in prayer and helping us deal with this tragic news. He was a fantastic teacher and a wonderful human being. I thought of him often over the years. He will most certainly be missed. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife and family during this difficult time.
Carolyn Vogt
April 18, 2011
Gina;
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
Herm Pansier
April 18, 2011
Reno was so open, honest and gracious to grant me an interview for the Society of American Baseball Research. We kept in touch. Reno was one of the greatest people I've ever met. He had the grit and determination one could only envy. I cherish his memory and my heart goes out to his family.
Bill Pignanelli
April 18, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Bertoia family and all those who new him.
Mr Bertoia taught me history in grades 9 and 10. An oustanding teacher and role model. What I remember most is how much he cared.
His life's work has left quite a legacy as evidenced by all the great memories and messages expressed in this guest book.
He will be missed.
Vince De Cecco
April 18, 2011
I was surprised to hear of Mr. Bertoias passing. He made a great teacher. He taught for a while at F.J. Brennan, when I was in grade 11 & 12. he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to the Bertoia family and may God bless you all.
Nancy Gibbons
April 18, 2011
I had the pleasure of meeting Reno at a Cancer Forum that he did over a year ago, what a kind man.
It was so nice of him to give his time to tell the community about cancer.
Please know that I will always remember his kind words of advice.
Please take care and no what a wonderful man he was
William Lane - Class 1990
April 18, 2011
I am very sorry to hear of the loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.He was a my teacher in high school at Assumption and have many many great memories of Mr.Bertoia. He will be sadly missed by many but really and truly never forgotten.
Perry Pittao
April 18, 2011
Dear Carl: I'm very sorry to learn of the passing of your Father. My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Perry Pittao
Sociology/Anthropology//Criminology Dept.
University of Windsor
April 18, 2011
~"He who does not know their history is bound to repeat it" ~
I was at a Tigers game in 1984.
After the game, we stopped at a small card shop near the stadium and I found a card of his. Knowing he was my teacher, I had to have it. I was the one who hit a homerun that day. I have fond memories of Mr. Bertoia at Assumption. My thoughts & prayers are with his families during this difficult time.
~ Tera-Lea Hood - Class of 1983
Louise Fry
April 18, 2011
Although I didn't know Reno personally, his gift of an autographed baseball bat was a treasure our children remember vividly. My husband (Dr John Fry) delivered Carl and Ruth, so the bat was a token of Reno's appreciation. Son Peter remembers the gang on the first block of Jefferson playing pick-up games of ball between the boulevards - fielding two teams (co-ed), with players to spare. It was a prized possession - if perhaps a little large, for most of the kids!
We are thinking of you at this sad time and want to add our thanks to Reno for a life well-lived, who touched so many lives - including ours.
We send you our sincere sympathy.
John & Louise Fry and family,
Chris, Peter, Cathy, Holly, Mary Kate
Angela Brink
April 18, 2011
Dear Ms. Ruth Bertoia and Family,
On behalf of the Immaculate Conception Catholic School Council please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your beloved father. May the memories of his great kindness and compassion toward others give you strength and comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Wishing You God's Peace,
Angela Brink and ICS Council
Donna Porter (nee Magee)
April 18, 2011
I got to know the Bertoia family as a child when I played with and went to school with the children. That's a long time ago now - but I have fond memories of the Bertoia family. My coldonences to the family.
April 18, 2011
I was surprised to hear of Mr. Bertoias passing. He made a great teacher. He taught for a while at Holy Rosary School, when I was in grade nine. he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to the Bertoia family and may God bless you all. Joyce Ganney, Windsor , Ontario
Kevin Johnson
April 18, 2011
Dear Gina, Ruth, Beth and to all those who knew and loved Reno Bertoia:
I have many fond memories of Mr. Bertoia from three classes in history at Assumption high. What a wonderful example -- he cared about his subject and his students.
Condolences on your loss.
Kevin Johnson (ACHS 1981)
Patricia Durocher(Bamberry)
April 18, 2011
Ruth and Gina,
I am sorry to hear about your father. My thoughts and prayers go out to you both. Trish (Bamberry)
Jo-Ann Walker
April 18, 2011
To the family of Reno Bertoia:
I wanted to express my great sadness at your father's passing. Mr. Bertoia was my favourite teacher at Assumption. He inspired me to love History and I went on to major in it. He was a very special person and even years later would recognize me by name. I was very proud to have know him. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jo-Ann (Bergoine) Walker Class of '85
Louie G. Mele
April 17, 2011
To the Bertoia Family my deepest regrets, on the passing of a husband, father, grandfather, and paisan to many. My experience with Mr. Bertoia started in Sept/69 the first full day of classes at Assumption. Start of the third period, I step into "HIS" class, this frosh was awestruck. There he was Mr. Bertoia. Forget the baseball stuff his mother was the cook at the Caboto Club.
Over the next 4 years Mr. B became a very important advisor to me. In Grade 12, once again I was lucky to have Mr. Bertoia as my home room teacher. Later that year, I was accepted at several different colleges Mr.B, was the man I leaned on for guidance. Thank you Mr. Bertoia for the many memories, timely Solomon wisdom/advice and the great Tiger memorbilia that you sold in your classes to raise money for the missions. Grazia per tutto!!
Sandy
April 17, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Bertoia. I am grateful to have crossed paths with Reno he is truly a kind man.
April 17, 2011
Mr. Bertoia is one of my favorite memories of Assumption. He was the man who inspired me to go to college in Minnesota and taught us all more than just baseball. My deepest sympathy to his family. Please know how much your dad influenced so many people. I wish I could be there to tell you this in person. In lieu of that, please accept my deepest sympathies.
Dave Wright, St. Paul, Mn
Proud member of Assumption's Class of '71
April 17, 2011
To the family of Reno:
We were often blessed to have Reno attend Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. I was a former student of his at Corpus Christi and looked up to him as a role model but also a man of faith. He was always eager to hear the Word of God and to reflect on it. He will be missed greatly by so many. He nows wears the crown of rightousness which he deserves for fighting the good fight. May you his family know of his love for you as he knew your love for him. During this most Holy Week may you experience the peace and love of the Risen Lord.
Fr. Dennis Wilhelm, Pastor
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Windsor, Ont'
April 17, 2011
To the Bertoia Family,
My deepest condolences. Mr. Bertoia was my grade 9 history teacher at Assumption. He was pivotal in my life as he recognized potential in me that I did not know even existed. He motivated me to follow his direction by promising to bring in his baseball card.
A kind man who had a significant role in my life. I will always remember him fondly.
Lori Santamaria
cathy johns (reiha)
April 17, 2011
Dear Carl, Ruth and Gina - my deepest condolences on your dad's passing. I am keeping you close in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Sorry I cannot be there in person as we are driving home from Florida. You were always three special kids in my life and remember our fun times fondly.
Mike Flanagan
April 17, 2011
It was a privledge to have known Mr Bertoia.I have always had a great deal of respect and admiration for him. He taught me grade 9&12 history. His son Carl also taught me a psychology course at the U of Windsor.I have great memories of a few golf trips to Maggie Valley NC. My father would bump into Reno every so often at the golf course and he always asked how I was. I aspire to me more like you Mr. Bertoia. Rest in peace. Mike Flanagan 88'and family.
Chuck and Annette Solly
April 17, 2011
To The Bertoia Family:
Thanks for all the jokes, laughs and good times, and I'm still using your hockey bag. Good Bye to a good friend.
Chucker and Annette.
Cathy Craig
April 17, 2011
Gina and Bertoia Family:
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Cathy Craig
XXOO
Jodi Pomerleau (Jackson)
April 17, 2011
I developed a passion for History after having Mr. Bertoia in grade 9. I took History all the way through high school and then majored in it at university. I now teach History in Hamilton.
I will never forget how my friends Suzie, Claude and I counted the days in a row he didn't wear a tie, planning to bring in a cake at 50 days....well he went 49 days and ruined our joke. But we got the cake anyway and he had a good laugh out of it.
Mr. Berotia is one of my lasting memories of Assumption. Condolences to the family.
John Lamphier
April 17, 2011
My fondest memory of Mr. Bertoi's was when he use to teach in the off season at St. Josephs high school in Windsor.He taught myself and 2 other left handers how to hit a ball along the left field base line,and out to left field.Back in those days,lefties were famous for always hitting to right field only. My sympathies to the family.
Lucy Kovacevich
April 17, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Bertoia family.
It certainly takes someone special to leave a "footprint" on this earth!
God Bless.
russell quinn
April 17, 2011
Reno was my high school teacher in Windsor and we spent much time in the gym and on the ball field way before I hit little league. A great 3rd baseman,,,,taught me the slider.
Adios
Arthur Woofenden
April 17, 2011
As a child growing up in East Windsor in the 1950's it was all about sports. We didn't have video games and cell phones, but we had lots of role models to look up to. One of them was Reno Bertoia. He taught us that there's nothing you can't do if you worked hard, stick with what you believe in and kept your focus. Those simple life lessons have helped me, not just in sports, but in all life. I want to thank Reno and remind his family just how much that meant to all of us.
Melita Kosek
April 17, 2011
I feel privileged to have known Reno and I’ll always cherish memories of him at Kosi’s home.
My sincere condolences to Bertoia family and friends.
Peace be with you, Reno.
April 17, 2011
Good Bye and enjoy heaven!
April 17, 2011
My sincere condolences to Reno’s family and his friends.
May this poem comfort you through this difficult time.
They are not dead,
Who leave us this great heritage of remembering joy.
They still live in our hearts,
In the happiness we knew, in the dreams we shared.
They still breathe,
In the lingering fragrance, windblown, from their favourite flowers.
They still smile in the moonlight’s silver,
And laugh in the sunlight’s sparking gold.
They still speak in the echoes of the words we’ve heard them say again and again.
They still move,
In the rhythm of waving grasses, in the dance of the tossing branches.
They are not dead;
Their memory is warm in our hearts, comfort in our sorrow.
They are not apart from us, but part of us,
For love is eternal,
And those we love shall be with us throughout all eternity.
Anon
Peace be with you, Reno.
Melita Kosek
Jane George
April 17, 2011
Reno was one of the greats and I don't just mean in baseball...he was a great person. His kind spirit made people feel comfortable and welcomed. I am proud that we were family. I know that my aunt Joan's life was blessed when they met. He touched many people in his life and will be missed by all.
Alice Williams
April 17, 2011
I went to high school with Mr. Bertoia's daughter Gina. I always recall what a sweet and gentle man he was whenever I went over to Gina's house and his generosity to take many of us to those great Tiger games. My sympathies to the family. Alice Williams, Toronto
Rudolph S. Daldin
April 17, 2011
Dear Joan and Family
Cancer srikes again and kills again even to the very best of men. When will this plague stop?
Best wishes always
Rudy Daldin
Denise Primeau/Cassan
April 17, 2011
I have nothing but happy memories of running thru his Argle home as a child playing with Ruth and Gina. Reno was a kind gentle soul.
Rest in Peace Reno
Albertina Simone
April 17, 2011
Mr. Bertoia will always be remembered for his kindness to his students and his love of teaching. In his classroom, history lessons were about more than just history. He achieved so much in his lifetime and shared that generously. He understood what it meant to impart a quality education on his students. I remember well and cherish the times I sat as a student in the class of this wonderful man. Teach me goodness, discipline and knowledge...you did to so many.
Rest in peace.
Melissa Balo
April 17, 2011
My deepest condolescence to the Bertoia family. I attended Assumption and had the pleasure of having Mr. Bertoia as a teacher. I lived in Walkerville and took the city bus to school but if my friend and I were waiting for the bus and Mr. Bertoia drove by, he stopped to pick us up and drove us. He was a very special man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Joe McParland
April 16, 2011
Rest in Peace Reno Bertoia ... you've made it all the way HOME!
During my five years at Assumption High School in the mid to late 60's, Reno was my teacher for 4 different courses and my baseball coach. More importantly, Reno was the man that I attempted to be like in so many ways as I grew through teenhood. I lost my dad to cancer at age 17 and Reno was there for me and mentored me with a father's love and concern.
As an educator he taught us more about history than just historical facts. He breathed life into history and made it come alive for us in the present. I remember him talking about his baseball experiences in the south and the very real discrimination black ballplayers faced. I recall his stories of how Billy Bruton (awesome centre fielder for the Tigers) would have to stay in a spearate hotel from the white players. And you could see how pained Reno was as a result of these segregation expereinces he witnessed first hand. Reno taught us life lessons we could not have learned anywhere else.
To this day whenever I smell English Leather cologne, or see a man's burgundy necktie, I am immediately reminded of my highschool teacher Reno. They were his trademarks - and they were emulated by a bunch of us.
I had a chance to interview him on Council Warmup in the past two years for his advocacy re. Prostate Cancer - what a thrill, what an honor it was for me to chat with my old freind! We shared many good laughs and recollections of our days so long ago. He recalled the time I assisted him with the varsity baseball team and my car broke down in Detroit. Reno and I were driving the team in our two cars to Detroit for a game with our crossriver rivals, Catholic Central. While on the Lodge near McNiicholls, my car broke down. Reno pulled over and we tried to get my car going but couldn't. We had only 45 minutes until the scheduled first pitch of the game - and we didn't want to forfeit to Catholic Central!. As 'catholic' luck would have it, a passing car stopped to offer us assistance. It turned out the driver was an alumnus of Assumption and volunteered to take the players in my car on to Catholic Central for the game. Reno gave me some money for a tow truck and I had the car towed to a nearby garage where it was fixed in no time. I made it to Catholic Central for the 5th inning. As Reno recalled this incident, he now shook his head and told me that where my car broke down on the Lodge was 2 blocks from the heart of the 1967 riots. I told him that I am sure glad I didn't know that piece of information back then!
Windsor, we have all lost one of the truly good guys in this world. RIP Reno... and thanks for everything!
collette beaulieu
April 16, 2011
will miss you on your regular Tuesday morning breakfast meeting...Diane and Collette (Ivy Rose Restaurant )
April 16, 2011
My sincerest sympathies to the Bertoia family.I had the pleasure of being taught at Assumption by Mr.Bertoia, as well as a dear friend to our family.
Denise Deschamps
April 16, 2011
My deep sympathy and promise of prayers.
Gerry Lalonde c.s.b.
Roger Lynch
April 16, 2011
As an old Minnesota Twins fan, I'm truly sorry to hear of Mr. Bertoia passing. He still had several fans even after all these years. RIP Mr Bertoia & thanks for the memories.
April 16, 2011
Peter & Angela Orlando
Ewa Pudlak (Dr.Smith's Lab)
April 16, 2011
I am truly sorry to hear of Mr. Bertoia passing. He will be missed.
Elisabeth Spourdalakis
April 16, 2011
You were always my favourite teacher at Assumption. Joyful fun and so approchable. Thank you for being in my life. Rest in peace.
Elisabeth Spourdalakis
Judy Glendenning (George) Class of '78
April 16, 2011
Mr. Bertoia was my favorite teacher and taught me History, my favorite class at Assumption. I was very saddened when I heard of his passing announced on the radio. My father and mother also knew him as my Dad attended Assumption with him. Mr. Bertoia will be remembered to me as one of the nicest Teachers that I had in my lifetime.
Leo Bozzetto
April 16, 2011
My memories of Reno go way, way back. His mother helped to sponsor my dad when he came to Canada. Both our mothers worked together for many years at the Caboto Club. I remember watching Reno play ball with the Tigers. I also remember the many visits to his parents' home over the years. Sometimes he would be there with his kids. And when he wasn't, it was his father who would tell the stories about Reno and his playing days. I recall one time seeing Reno's baseball outfits drying on a clothes line in the basement, after his mother had washed them. I could not believe that I was standing next to a pro's baseball uniform!
Many years and many memories! To Reno's family and friends, my deepest condolences.
Paul Conway
April 16, 2011
Carl
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Peace be with you all.
April 16, 2011
Our deepest sympathies to his family; former wife Rosalee, and children Carl, Ruth and Gina. What a legacy he left behind in all of YOU!! May your footprint left behind be as deep and impactful as his!
Love you!
Allison & Shannon xo
April 16, 2011
So sorry to hear of Reno's passing. Myself and our staff will truly miss his visits to our Fruit and Vegetable stand. He thrilled all of us with his stories about his baseball career, he was such an inspiration to us all.
Elaine Simard from Elaine's Garden Market.
Ralph Paterson
April 16, 2011
I knew Reno in high school. Having played baseball too for Fr. Cullen I remember when Reno signed with the Detroit Tigers. Rest in peace Reno. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Sandi Frangella
April 16, 2011
I was very sad to read of Mr. Bertoia's passing. He was an extrodinary teacher and human being. He lived his life to the fullest and achieved more than most people can dream of. Such a wonderful gift; to be able to touch the lives of many collegues, athletes and students alike, and be loved by all. Mr. Bertoia left behind a wonderful legacy for his family and friends. Know that the Bertoia family is in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. God bless you all. RIP Rino Bertoia
Willam Gordon
April 16, 2011
Reno was my favorite Tiger in the 50's.I also was born in Windsor and went to Assumption High school. He leaves me a lot of good memories, God bless him.
Andrea Davis
April 16, 2011
I am a long friend of his Daughter Ruth and I've had the privilege of meeting him just once,this tall and statuesque fellow, and I've always said, Ruth's twin; But through the more than 20 years of talking to Ruth I feel like I know him more, and am saddened by this loss for the family. My Condolences to Ruth, Gina and Carl.
Trish Brooks
April 16, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Bertoia family. I met Mr. Bertoia a few times in various restaurants in the Erie Street district whe I was with Gina, what a nice man he was. I know He and Gina spent time in Italy last summer, I know that she is cherishes that time that she had with him.
Richard Anthony Piet
April 16, 2011
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Reno-Peter-Bertoia/108373912581795?sk=wall
I put up this Facebook page to remember Reno's cherished life and the joy he brought to so many.
So many fond memories.
To Joan, Carl, Ruth, Gina, all of Reno's family and friends, please accept my deepest condolences.
April 16, 2011
Although History had been a part of my life forever, it was Reno - Mr. Bertoia back then - who brought it to life. He had a true gift for teaching and all of us who sat in his classroom were so fortunate that he chose to share it with us. He was definitely one of those people that left a footprint in my life. I hope that you all gain comfort from the memories that you shared as you mourn his loss from your life.
Fondly,
Alisa Metcalfe
Class of '84
Mariann Wilson
April 16, 2011
I knew Rino both as a fellow educator and as my son's History teacher. He was a true professional with a heart and a great sense of humor.My condolences to colleagues Joan and Beth on the loss of Rino. I will keep both of you in my prayers. I am sending comforting thoughts from Naples Florida.
Mariann Wilson
jon st louis
April 16, 2011
my coach and friend a real good guy rip
Nancy Chittaro
April 16, 2011
Some of my fondest childhood memories are of going to games at Tiger Stadium...a gift that Reno generously shared with us.
Joan, Carl, Ruthie and Gina...you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Uncle Reno, you will be missed!
xoxo
Nancy
Sue Mojso-Mancini
April 16, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Bertoia Family. Mr. Bertoia was one in a million. After graduating from High School it was amazing how he still remembered my name when running into him after many years. I know you have a lot of wonderful memories to help you get by!
John Chittaro
April 16, 2011
John Chittaro - When I was 12 years old, Uncle Reno (he would have been in his late 40's) was visiting with my parents. It was a hot summer day and I was in the yard with my ball and glove. Uncle Reno played catch with me and he gave pointers about fielding and throwing. Our conservation switched to base running. I told Reno that my coach thought I could be a base stealer (small but quick) but I needed to learn a good sliding technique to avoid injury. Uncle Reno offered to give me some lessons!! My dad, Eddi, went to get Reno a pair of jogging pants. Reno put the pants on over his shorts. We set our gloves in the yard as bases and reno slid into one after another describing the proper placement of the hands, legs, and feet. He slid a dozen times, each time letting me give it a try. I improved with every slide and his enthusiasm followed! I was in awe that a pro would take the time to 'slide' with me. More importantly, it was his positive encouragement that pushed me to practice often. I remember retelling this story to uncle Reno years later. His comment was 'That was fun, but I can't remember if I ruined your dad's pants?' God bless Uncle Reno. Love you always. John.
Wayne Stevens
April 16, 2011
I recall Briggs Stadium, upper deck, 3rd base line and at 12 years old watching Reno playing for the Tigers. He was so special because he was the Tiger from Windsor.I'd ride my bike by his home because that was where the Tiger from Windsor lived. Later in life, aa a broadcaster, I got to interview and know Reno even better.He WAS a HOMERUN!
God Bless Reno and his family.
Danielle Reaume
April 16, 2011
My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Mr. Bertoia's family, especially my long-time friend (and his step-daughter) Beth. He was a great history teacher at Assumption - making history actually fun to learn. But he was also a very nice and caring individual. He'll be missed but I'm glad that he is not longer suffering and is at peace.
Anna Marie (Milan) Kisch
April 16, 2011
My condolences to the Bertoia family. After all these years since graduating from Assumption His words are still ingrained "He who does not know their history is bound to repeat it" Anna Marie(Milan) Kisch class of '76
kimberly o'dowd
April 16, 2011
Joan and family
I am truly sorry to hear of Reno's passing.
He was such a quiet, soft spoken man any one who was blessed to have known him is that much better of a person because they had Reno in their lives.
If there is any thing at all that I can do please dont hesitate to call or email me 519 256 9883 [email protected]
May the Lord give you the strength and courage for each new day
always in our hearts
Kim O'dowd and family
(former security at canterburry)
robert mclaughlin
April 16, 2011
Mr Bertoia will always be remembered as a great team player and teacher. Best wishes to his family.
Robert Mclaughlin class of 83
Marjo Callaghan
April 16, 2011
Carl
Learning of Reno's death brought back memories of our graduate school days and the many, many discussions we had about about our parents, families and life in general. I hope you find comfort in sharing some of those memories. My thoughts are with you and your family.
kimberly O'Dowd
April 16, 2011
Joan and family
I am truly sorry to hear of Reno's passing.
He was such a quiet, soft spoken man any one who was blessed to have known him is
that much better of a person because they had Reno in their lives.
If there is any thing at all that I can do please dont hesitate to call or email me 519 256 9883
May the Lord give you the strength and courage for each new day
always in our hearts
Kim O'dowd and family
(former security at canterburry)
David Starbuck
April 16, 2011
On behalf of the Kansas City Baseball Historical Society, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Reno Bertoia (who played in Kansas City in 1961). Every former player I talk to that knew Reno always comment that he was a very kind man and wonderful teammate. God Bless his memory.
CLAY MARSTON
April 16, 2011
We wish to offer our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, all other relatives, many associates both in sports and teaching, and especially to his large number of fans throughout baseball upon the departure from the scene of RENO BERTOIA ...
On reading over these other many entries it is plainly evident what an influence Reno had on so many others across the years ...
He was always a very fine and truly fun fellow who was a real conversationalist ...
He shall be greatly missed and fondly remembered forever by those who saw him play the game and who knew him.
- www.canadianbaseballnews.com -
Marilyn Bentley
April 16, 2011
My sincerest sympathies to the whole Bertoia family. Having come from teaching at St. Mary's until it closed, I had the certain pleasure of teaching with Reno in the early days of the 'blended' Assumption high school. What good times we had as a History Department staff, and what wonderful memories I have of a truly honourable and moral individual, gifted as well with kindness and compassion for his students and colleagues.
Marilyn Bentley (Ouellette)
Fr. Ron Stephens
April 16, 2011
I feel such a loss with Reno's death. We began a long friendship when he taught me English in 1959. I think wevwere his first class. We idolized him for he was at the height of his baseball popularity. Later I was on staff with him for over 20 years. In all that time he was ever the gentleman, the pacifier, the friend. Being so far away now I have been unable to keep up with him, but feel the pain of his loss. My best to Joan and his family.
BRUNO BERTUCCI
April 16, 2011
Made my days at Assumption something that will never leave me, Will miss him,
Nancy Chittaro
April 16, 2011
Some of my fondest childhood memories are of going to games at Tiger Stadium...a gift that Reno generously shared with us.
Joan, Carl, Ruthie and Gina....you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Uncle Reno, you will be missed!
xoxo
Nancy
Holly Mutterback
April 16, 2011
Ruth Bertoia ... my deepest condolences on the loss of your father. I never met your dad until Thursday when I had the honour of participating in his care during his final hours.
My prayers to you and your family that God give you strength and comfort at this time. He lives on in your heart through fond memories.
April 16, 2011
I grew up with the Tigers and Reno was one of my favourites
My prayers are with his family
RIP Reno
Jim Hunter St Catharines
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