Ferruccio Valentino Dona
March 4, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, the family of Ferruccio Valentino Dona announces his passing on March 4, 2025 at AgeCare London long term care in his 93rd year.
A true romantic, Ferruccio spent just shy of 70 years side by side with his beloved wife, Clara Antonia Dona (née Stocco), who remained by his side until the very end. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and, undoubtedly, a little bit of Italian passion.
Ferruccio was the kind of man you couldn’t forget—a gentle giant who was as kind-hearted as he was a champion arm-wrestler. He will be deeply missed by his children: Walter Dona (Marion Juhasz) of Abbotsford, BC; Gloria Dona Palcich (the late Emilio) of London, ON; and Christina Dona (Robin Simard) of Montreal, QC. His grandchildren—Brenden Dona (Crystal), Aria Palcich (Camilo Ortega), Marissa Twemlow (Jordan), and Rico Palcich—were lucky to have a Nonno who loved to play with them as toddlers, lecture about history, debate current events and politics, and always be ready with a deck of cards. His great-granddaughters, Autumn and Piper Dona, will hear many stories of his life and legacy.
Ferruccio’s siblings, Rosemary Bot (the late Luigi) of Halton Hills, ON; Franca Bot (the late John) of Beachville, ON; Grace Coles (Robert) of Wiarton, ON; and Luisa Birtch (Wally) of Menomonee Falls, WI, will remember him fondly, as will his many extended family members, in-laws, and lifelong friends in the Italian community. Predeceased by his parents Angelo and Luigia (née Berto) Dona, his sisters Maria Dona, Rina D’Annibale (Gabriele) and Corinna (Carolina) Agnelli (the late Alfredo), and his brother Osvaldo (Ozzie) Dona (Carol).
Born in Treviso, Italy, Ferruccio arrived in Canada in 1952, bringing with him a strong work ethic, a love of good food, and a community spirit. London became his home, and the Italian community became his second family. He was a pillar of the Marconi Club of London, Trevisani nel Mondo, and a founding organizer of Kavalkade/Panorama, where he proudly celebrated his heritage and helped bring cultures together. He was always ready with a smile, whether sharing a joke, greeting a friend, or settling in for a game of cards. For nearly 40 years, Ferruccio was a master tile setter with Acme Tile. A true artist and perfectionist, he left his mark (literally) in homes and buildings across the city. Though he has left this world, his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support of family and friends will live on in the stories and memories of those who loved him. Ciao for now, Ferruccio. May you be enjoying a well-earned espresso (or glass of wine) with those who have gone before you.
A funeral service will be conducted at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a visitation preceding the service from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Lunch will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Ferruccio’s name to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners.
Leave a tribute for Ferruccio Valentino Dona
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A donation has been made to Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners. Message from the donator: Walter & Marian & Family; Gloria, Aria , Ricco; Christina & Robin; Words can not express how deeply the loss of your father, grandfather, has been felt by Joe, myself and my family. Our heartfelt condolences to you all. May he find eternal peace and joy in the loving arms of Our Lord. With heavy hearts: Luisa & Joseph Casciano
On behalf of the Tonini family, please accept my deepest condolences to Walter, Gloria, Christina, and Ferruccio’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ferruccio will always be remembered for his quick smile and gracious, old-world gentlemanly ways. He was a respected artisan whose skill and work ethic helped build the reputation of Acme Tile during the many years that he worked there. You are in my prayers as you cope with the loss of your beloved patriarch, and may precious memories eventually help to fill the void. Velda Tonini Ambrose
Dear Christina , Diane and myself found out the passing away of your father Ferruccio Valentino Dona on March 4th. We wish you, your family, as well as Robin, our deepest and sincere condolences on this sad day. We had you and your family in our prayers during these difficult times From Johnny and Diane!
Ferruccio was such a gentleman always . I had the honor of knowing him and his family for many years. He was kind , gentle and a,ways had a great smile . He was a pillar of the Italian community in London. I am so sorry at his loss and I send my prayers and love to the family especially Clara and Christina . Love and prayers .
I remember fondly sitting with Mr. Dona in his dining room, sipping his home made wine and having a wonderful conversation. He was an interesting and caring man.
Services for Ferruccio Valentino Dona
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 29, 2025 9:00 am to 11:00 am
Funeral Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 29, 2025 11:00 am
Lunch will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 29, 2025 12:00 pm
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The world is missing a great human being. Kind, generous, fun, intelligent and a caretaker. A gentle giant that was loved by all including me and my family. He has been a presence all my life. He will be missed however very very fondly remembered and always with a smile on my face.
~ Loretta and Larry Smith and Family