It is with profound sadness that the family of Rosario Capillo announces his passing on September 30th, 2023, at the age of 89. A remarkable man whose life story was a testament to resilience, hard work and unwavering generosity.
Born in San Cataldo, Italy during the tumultuous years leading up to the Second World War, Rosario was the fourth of six children and faced adversity from an early age following the passing of his father. His determination to seek a better life led him on a remarkable journey that ultimately took him to France.
In 1951, at the age of 16, he arrived in Paris where he trained as a cyclist and was in pursuit of qualifying for the Tour de France. However, life would take him to Canada when, armed with determination and an unmatched work ethic, he immigrated in November 1953 with $72 in his pocket and no English proficiency.
Shortly after arriving in Canada, he met the love of his life, Isabel and they embarked on a journey that would define their lives. In January 1956, Rosie and Isabel moved to Elliot Lake where they set down roots and built a life full of love, happiness, laughter and cherished memories.
In 1965, Rosario opened Rosario’s Furniture providing quality furnishings to countless families and establishing himself as a respected member of the community, contributing to its growth and development in many ways.
In 1972, Rosie successfully pursued municipal politics where he served two terms as a Councillor. He would later return to City Council until 2003. Rosario was an active member of the Elliot Lake community and served as a member of several boards including Algoma Public Health, the Police Services Board, and Elliot Lake Retirement Living. He was also instrumental in garnering substantial financial, material and community support for such initiatives as Huron Lodge, NOSM, and the golf course, among others.
Beyond his civic involvement, Rosario had a passion for many things. Chief among them was cycling, airplanes and fine wines. Whether it was a cycling trips with friends, or flying in his Piper Comanche, he could likely be found afterwards with a glass in hand and beautifully singing a song. His enthusiasm for these hobbies was infectious, and he took every opportunity to share his passions.
Despite having only limited formal education, this did not deter him from pursuing knowledge with an insatiable thirst. He was a wise man who possessed a natural curiosity and an ability to learn from every experience life presented to him. Rosie was a true jack-of-all-trades. Whether it was fixing a broken bicycle, repairing a household appliance, welding, or even tackling complex mechanical issues, there was nothing he couldn’t fix. His skill and willingness to help others was unmatched, and he often offered his expertise to friends, family and neighbours.
Rosario never forgot his roots and was a proud Italian-Canadian with a zest for life and an unrivaled will to live, which he proved time and time again. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his dear family and friends both here and abroad, and his legacy of service, passion, and craftsmanship will continue to inspire.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the healthcare providers who cared for Rosario.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to local Food Banks. Rosario never forgot the hardships he endured, including times of hunger and poverty, and understood first-hand the importance of a helping hand during difficult times. These experiences instilled in him a deep empathy for those facing similar circumstances and he took every opportunity to support local foodbanks, often buying a pallet’s worth of pasta to donate.
A funeral mass will be held at Paroisse Ste-Bernadette Parish, 45 Spruce Avenue, on Thursday, October 12th, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Rosario’s life at the Elliot Lake Hampton Inn on Saturday, October 14th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Woodlands Cemetery for a private burial.
-Lori, Brad, Kelsey, Kailey, and family
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Elliot Lake Funeral Chapel & Cremation Centre (36 Ontario Ave). Online condolences to the Capillo family may be made at www.elliotlakefuneralchapel.com