EMILIO MARELLO

EMILIO MARRELLO Dec. 27th, 1930 ~ Jan. 16th, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Emilio Marrello, beloved husband, father, Nonno and Bisnonno, announce his peaceful passing on January 16, 2026, at the age of 95. Born to Giandomenico and Franceschina (Guercio) Marrello, in Grimaldi, Italy, Emilio was the third of seven children. He was often doted on by his mother and sisters, as he was always the favourite. Hard work and resilience were the cornerstone of Emilio's young life growing up in a small village during the war. At the young age of 18, he spent eighteen months in the Italian military.

Emilio immigrated to Port Arthur, Ontario in 1959, to reunite with his future wife and search for a better life. He worked various jobs, spending many years in construction, until 1973 when he became employed by Hawker Siddley (Canada Car), which later became Bombardier. He proudly worked there as a finisher on the line until he retired in 1996. He was a proud member of the Italian Society of Port Arthur for over 56 years and was also a longtime member of St. Anthony's Parish.

Emilio married the love of his life, Eleonora (Norina) Mauro on April 7th, 1959. They welcomed their first child John shortly afterwards, followed by daughters Franca, Anna and Cindy. Emilio was a hardworking provider who loved his family dearly. Memories of picnics at Boulevard and trips to Merla-Mae for ice cream are fondly remembered.

Emilio lived an active and full life. In his younger years, Emilio enjoyed fishing and hunting, and poker games with his brothers-in-law and friends. He immensely enjoyed raising canaries for many years. He prided himself on making his home-made wine, salami and tomato sauce. However, his true passion was in his garden. Emilio could always be found in his incredible greenhouse, tending to his tomatoes. His green thumb also extended to cultivating plum trees, grape vines and cherry trees. He continued this hard physical labor up until the age of 94. A testament to his healthy lifestyle and longevity. Above all Emilio's love of his family was paramount as he would do anything for them.

Emilio is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Norina, his son John (Laurie), daughters Franca, Anna (Tony) Tesolin, and Cindy (Carlo) Fanti. He is also survived by his grandchildren Christin (Hazem), Cassandra (Matt), Courtney, Isabella, Sienna and Olivia. He was blessed to have three great grandchildren which he cherished every moment with. Zahra, Zayn, and Zélie were his pride and joy, and he was anxiously awaiting a fourth little princess due in March. In addition, he leaves behind his loving sisters Delfina Miniaci and Mafalda Miniaci (Vancouver), as well as sisters-in-law Lina Colistro, Alba Filice, Rose Mauro and brother-in-law Tony Costantino, along with many nieces and nephews here in Canada and Italy.

He is predeceased by his parents, brother Antonio, sisters Luisa, Maria and Anna, as well as numerous brothers and sisters-in-law. He was also predeceased by his daughter Maria Theresa in infancy.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 when family and friends will gather in St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church for the Funeral Mass beginning at 12:30pm celebrated by Rev. Luigi Filippini. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 11:30am to 12:30pm at the church. Those unable to attend in person may join in the celebration virtually via the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJR_tKnxz38.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory are invited to donate to The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.

On-line condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com