Franco Di Noto

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Franco Di Noto on October 2, 2014 with family by his side at St. Boniface Hospital. Franco was 65 years old. He is predeceased by his parents Giovanni and Rosaria Di Noto and his in-laws Luigi and Teresa Maione. Left to mourn his passing is his wife Emilia Piera (nee Maione) and his children Johnny (Jessica), Rosa and Liana. He will also be remembered by his siblings Maria (Agostino) Coniglio, Francesca (Vincenzo) Rinella, Grazia (Francesco) Coniglio, Joe Di Noto and Rosetta (Carmelo) Altanese and his in-laws Maria (late Francesco) DeRosa , late Giuseppina (late Gino) Gatti, Emma (late Peter) Petrovich, Tony (Angela) Maione, Ralph (late Nina) Maione, Frank (Mary) Maione as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Born in the town of Termini Imerese on May 30, 1949, Franco “Sicilia” immigrated to Canada in 1968 after he came to Winnipeg to be best man at his brother’s wedding. He met and eventually married the love of his life, Piera, with whom he had three beautiful children. He was a man of many talents but his passion was his family. Those who knew him loved him unconditionally. He was the first to want to help those in need and the first that people came to for guidance. Franco will be forever remembered for his smile, sparkling green eyes and charismatic personality. He was, is, and always will be a great husband, father and friend. Let Angel’s wings speed thee to thy destination.

Prayers will be said at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7 at Holy Rosary Parish, 510 River Avenue. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8 at Holy Rosary Parish with Father Sam Argenziano as the Celebrant. Entombment will follow in Four Apostles Mausoleum in Green Acres Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Taha Abdulabari, Salavatore Di Noto, Agostino Fiorentino, Frank Maione, Louie, Peter and Frank Jr. Maione and Don Phillips. Honourary pallbearers will be Ralph Maione, Tony Maione and Theresa Yeo.

In memoriam donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.