M. Joseph Di Ioia

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Joseph (Giuseppe) Di Ioia, on Thursday, August 3, after having suffered a stroke on the previous Monday. He leaves to mourn his devoted wife of 59 years, Lucia (née Bruno), as well as his loving children Carmen (Terrence Fitz), Anthony (Antonella Fortugno) and Pino (Tina Serrao). His absence will be assuredly felt by his grandchildren whom he cherished so very much: Damian, Sabrina, Kai, Lucca and Max. He also leaves to mourn his sister Pasqualina Spensieri (late Pasquale), his sister-in-law Lidia Lamargese (Matteo) and countless nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers-in-law Vincenzo Bruno (late Claudette, divorced) and Anthony Bruno (late Lise).

Joseph embarked on the long, immigrant's voyage from Italy in 1956 at the age of 17, accompanied by his parents and sister. He quickly set out to learn the language of his adopted country and enrolled in classes at Sir George Williams University (later Concordia University). By the age of 24, he had passed his Chartered Accountant exams, placing first in the province on the intermediary exam. A few years later, after gaining some experience, he opened his own firm and became one of the first chartered accountants to serve the Italian community in Montreal. Over the years, he made countless friends and was always willing to lend an ear, help to organize or contribute to a good cause. He and his beloved Lucia worked tirelessly to provide for their family and lived a quiet life dedicated to their family, always keeping a watchful eye over their children and later, their grandchildren. They instilled in their children a sense of responsibility, integrity and compassion as well as an appreciation for education and lifelong learning.

The immense trials of this last week were alleviated by the incredible staff at Montreal Neurological Institute. The compassion they showed us was nothing short of extraordinary. We wish to thank Dr. Catherine Legault, Dr. Jeffrey Allen Hall, Justine Gauthier, Emma, Summer, Cristine, Tasha, and countless other angels who were there for our Dad and for us during this time of need. Thank you also to Father Lawrence MacEachen for his precious visit.

Visitation will take place at the Memoria Funeral Home, 1120 Rue Jean-Talon East, (corner Christophe-Colomb) on Tuesday, August 8, from 14h00-17h00 and 19h00-21h00. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, August 9, at noon at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church (7645, rue du Mans, Saint-Léonard) followed by a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation in Joseph's name to the Montreal Neurological Institute - Joseph would have appreciated this.

Daddy, may you rest in eternal peace - we carry your torch and love you forever.