It is with great sadness that the Cusinato family, announces the passing of Tony, at age 88, on July 5, 2024. He will be remembered for his love of law, contagious laugh, eternal generosity, work ethic and kindness toward others. Tony was affectionately known to us as dad, Nonno, Mr. C, the original Cusi or Ega. He never lost his sense of humour, or his appetite for a good piece of pie. Survived by his devoted children, he will be missed by Cynthia (Guy Jammes), Curtis (Carla Brewer), Charla (Jim Parkinson); his dear niece, Janine Kovach (David Bugaresti); and his devoted partner, Pia Petretta, who together enjoyed many happy years of love, fun and adventure. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, and best friend of nearly 50 years, Elsie Cusinato (née Padovan). As Nonno, he was adored by his grandchildren, Riley, Jacob, Caroline, Justine, Callum, Darren, Christopher, Mason, Connell, Sloane and Olivia, who were privy to Tony's many legendary stories, and the life lessons he learned along the way. He grew up on Glengarry Avenue, in Windsor, and spoke often of his early days in the neighbourhood and as a rink rat at Windsor Arena. Throughout his life, he found pride and passion in the game of hockey, and played almost to the age of 80. Tony is the loving brother, of Elsa Cusinato. It was through Elsa's generous financial support, that he was afforded the opportunity to attend law school. He is predeceased by his sister, Ginetta Barbaro; (survived by Ron); brother, Dino (the late Mary Jane); and brother-in-law, Kalmen Kovach (survived by Barbara Whent; and predeceased by his first wife, Velma Kovach); and by his parents, Gino and Maria Cusinato (nee Comacchio). Tony attended Assumption High School, and St. Michael's College, where he played hockey. He completed his undergrad at the University of Windsor, before he graduated from Osgoode Hall, in 1962. In 1968, he embarked on a successful law career, starting his own firm with his long-time friend and law partner Al Gatti, which eventually grew to become Cusinato, Gatti, Wright & Godard. His love of the law was a constant inspiration to many, whether he was in private practice or as a federal Justice of the Superior Court of Ontario, for close to 28 years. He cherished his time on the bench, and felt fortunate to be working and doing something he loved every day. Throughout his life, Tony was proudly active in many volunteer roles, and served on many boards. He was always extremely generous in giving back to his community, including his support of the Rotary Club of Windsor, as well as a founding member of the Pointe West Golf Club. The family is deeply grateful to Amy's Helping Hands for their exceptional care, especially by Grethel Sessing, who was his long-time caregiver extraordinaire. Lucy, Flo and Gladys also provided amazing support. Your sympathy can be expressed through a donation to the Honourable Justice Anthony E. Cusinato Scholarship, at the Faculty of Law at the University of Windsor, established in 2011, upon his retirement. Please see the University of Windsor website – (
uwindsor.ca/supportuwindsor/donate). Family and friends can click on other in the Designation drop down and type in OTTS- Honourable Justice A. Cusinato Scholarship. A private family burial has taken place, and a Celebration of Tony's life with family and friends will be held this fall. Share condolences and memories at (
familiesfirst.ca).
Published by The Globe and Mail from Jul. 13 to Jul. 17, 2024.