Eugene Ernest Boccia

"Geno"- Peacefully passed away at Sunnybrook Hospital Palliative Care on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at the age of 78. Husband of Alice(nee D'Odorico) for 54 years. Father of Nancy(Dr. Gabe Ceci) and Eugene Jr.(Anna Maria Sacco). Beloved and very proud Nonno of Michael, Anthony, Marc and Alicia. Cherished brother to Carol Vittori (deceased) and Teresa Boccia. Son of The Late Ernest(Ernie) and Catalda(Kay) Boccia.

Geno was an entrepreneur, developer, contractor, builder, businessman, philanthropist, and gourmand. He began working in the construction industry right out of school and was CEO of Alcan-Colony Contracting Co. Limited from 1968-1985. He was one of a handful of contractors who oversaw the development of Toronto's sewer and watermain infrastructure during the city's formative years. Geno was the owner of the Jolly Miller Tavern(1963-1997), yet he did not drink, and the owner of National Pines Golf Club, yet he did not golf. He was a President of the Metropolitan Toronto Sewer and Watermain Contractors Association, a Director of the C.I.B.P.A., a Board Member of York Finch Hospital Foundation, a Knight of the Holy Sepulcher, a Director of Villa Charities Foundation, and Treasurer for the Dolce Bowling League.

Geno was a big-hearted benefactor to many of Toronto's hospitals and churches. He could never turn down a charitable cause or a raffle ticket.

Geno was a unique individual with a sharp mind. He had an amazing recall of people's names and of dates, as well as incredible mathematical skills. He was able to calculate amortized mortgage rates in his head and was able to read documents upside down. His attention to detail was unsurpassed. Geno was old school and a man of his word. He was a religious man who always carried a rosary and attended church regularly. He had a sense of humour and enjoyed a good joke.

Thankyou to the Caregivers from Premiere and the Nurses on K1East.

Geno will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Friends may call on Monday, May 25, 2009 from 6-9 p.m and Tuesday May 26th from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge Street, at Goulding, south of Steeles). A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2009 at ( to confirm time )at St. Bonaventure's Roman Catholic Church(1300 Leslie Street), Toronto, Ontario. Entombment to follow at Holy Cross Mausoleum. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the St. Francis of Assisi Church, 72 Mansfield Avenue, Toronto, Ontario.