1941 ~ 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Giuseppe Leonetti on Saturday, November 22, 2025, with family by his side.
Giuseppe was born on August 24, 1941, in Castelli, Teramo, Italy, where he grew up and married Teresina Cesarini on August 25, 1966. Life was tough, and to support his family, he went to work in Switzerland, before immigrating to Canada with his wife and son Donato, in 1975. Their journey, supported by the kindness of relatives and friends, led them to Thunder Bay, where Giuseppe embraced the opportunity to build a new life.
Once landed in Canada, he immediately began working at Bruno's Contracting, a friend and fellow immigrant, before moving on to spend long, tireless days in the bush as a machine operator work that was tough, honest, and a true reflection of his strong hands and strong spirit. He later retired from Provincial Papers, leaving behind years of dedicated service.
A devoted Husband, Pa, Nonno, Brother and friend, Giuseppe took great pride in growing his garden and sharing with everyone around him. He enjoyed peaceful morning walks and afternoons spent in the back yard. He loved to make homemade wine, salami and tomato sauce. Many memories were made at the Hicks Lake cottage and during hunting trips in the bush, but the memories he cherished most were those spent with his two granddaughters, whose presence lit up his days, and the bond they shared became one of the greatest joys of his life.
Pa was an incredibly patient, gentle and peaceful man, one who spoke few words and preferred to listen to the life and laughter around him. We will always remember his uncontrollable laugh at the most simple of moments. As long as he was able, he remained connected to his roots in the Grand Sasso community and was a proud member of the Italian Society of Port Arthur.
Giuseppe leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and family. His life was a testament to hard work, humility, and the simple but profound joys found in being close to family.
Giuseppe is lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Teresina, son Donato (Sandra) and his cherished granddaughters Samantha (Patrick) and Alexandria. He is also survived by his sister Dina Di Federico, his aunt Ida Scocchia as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Italy. He was predeceased by his parents, Donato and Maria and his sister Maria.
Funeral services for Giuseppe will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, when family and friends will gather in St. Anthony's R.C. Church for the Funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 a.m. celebrated by Rev. Luigi Filippini. Visitation will be held in the church beginning at 10:00 am. Entombment to follow in Our Lady of Charity Mausoleum, St. Andrew's Catholic Cemetery.
The family respectfully asks for donations to the Alzheimer Society or encourages you to plant a tree or flower in his memory, as a lasting tribute to his love of life and nature.
Our family would like to express our heartful appreciation to everyone that's been involved with Giuseppe's care over the years at Roseview.
On-line condolences may be made at
www.sargentandson.comPublished by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Nov. 25, 2025.