ZANOTTI, Louis “Big Lou” Zanotti
August 16, 1961 - July 28, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Louis Pietro Zanotti, who passed away peacefully the morning of July 28, 2026 at the Hospice of Windsor after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. He was 64 years young.
Lou was the devoted husband of Josephine Zanotti (née Sangiorgio) for 41 years and a proud father to Joseph (Nicole), Alexandria (Mark), and Patrick (Mickaila). Nothing brought him greater joy than being “Nonno” to William (10), Claire (8), Vivienne (6), Margaret (6), and Genevieve (4). He was also excitedly awaiting the arrival of another grandchild.
He is lovingly remembered by his brother, Fr. Richard Zanotti, his sister Bruna Pinard (Claude), and his brother Ernie Zanotti. His sisters-in-law Angela Randazzo (Carmelo), Antonietta Grillo (Enzo), along with many nephews, nieces, extended family, and countless friends; especially Sue & Joe Sirianni, and Laura & Kirk Barbesin.
Lou dedicated 30 years of service to Ford Motor Company of Canada as a pipefitter. Beyond his career, music was one of the great passions of his life. Since 1983, he was the heart of Big Louie and the Band, bringing joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories to weddings, celebrations, and dance floors across the region. If you ever heard Lou perform, you likely remember his smile, his energy, and the way he could bring people together.
Above all else, Lou loved his family, cherished his friends, and lived a life filled with generosity, humour, and music. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the songs he sang, and the family he loved so deeply.
Our family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff at Hospice of Windsor, Met Hospital Cancer Clinic, and all of his healthcare providers for the compassionate care and dignity they provided throughout Lou’s journey.
Visitation will take place at the Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – South Chapel (3048 Dougall Ave., Windsor On 519-253-7236) on Monday August 3, 2026 from 2-5pm & 7-9pm. Vigil prayers will be held at 830pm. Funeral Mass will be held at Assumption Church (2735 University Ave West.) on Tuesday August 4, 2026 at 11:00am and officiated by Fr. Richard Zanotti. Entombment to follow at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. Donations to the The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County Inc. or the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family.
Thank you to everyone who has reached out with your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. We know Lou will be remembered with smiles, stories, and songs for many years to come.
Rest peacefully, Dad. We love you beyond words, and your music will forever play on in our hearts.
Visitation
Monday 3 August
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Monday, August 3, 2026
South Chapel
3048 Dougall Avenue
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
519-253-7234
Visitation
Monday 3 August
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Monday, August 3, 2026
South Chapel
3048 Dougall Avenue
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
519-253-7234
Vigil Prayers
Monday 3 August
8:30 pm – 8:45 pm
Monday, August 3, 2026
South Chapel
3048 Dougall Avenue
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
519-253-7234
Funeral Mass
Tuesday 4 August
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Our Lady of Assumption Church
2735 University Ave West
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Entombment
Tuesday 4 August
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Heavenly Rest Cemetery
5005 Howard Avenue
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- Location: Southwestern Ontario
- Funeral Home: WINDSOR CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME
