Giovanni “John” Pirillo
March 24, 1935 - September 23, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Giovanni “John” Pirillo on Monday, September 23, 2024, at Niagara Health St. Catharines at the age of 89.
Beloved husband of Maria (née Venneri) for 67 years, Giovanni was a cherished father to Susan (Mark Gemin) and Santino (Tina Pirillo). Adored Nonno to Stephen (April) Gemin, Matthew Gemin (Kelsi), Alicia Gemin (Anthony), Larissa Pirillo, and Ashley Pirillo. He will be missed by his siblings Rosaria (Ferdinande) Berardi, Emma (Mario) Mauro of British Columbia, and Silvio (Rosetta) Pirillo of Italy, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews in Canada, Italy, France, and Germany.
Born on March 24, 1935, in Mangone, Calabria, Italy, Giovanni immigrated to Canada with Maria and their young daughter Susan in 1964. After a brief stay in British Columbia, they settled in St. Catharines, where Giovanni became an integral part of the community. Known for his passion for gardening, canning, and creating traditional Italian sausages, capicollo, and prosciutto, Giovanni’s home was filled with warmth, family, and delicious food. He also enjoyed hockey, soccer, and visiting local markets for the freshest ingredients.
Visitors will be received at Bocchinfuso Funeral Home, 2 Regent Street, Thorold, on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with Vigil prayers at 3:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, 31 Chestnut Street East, St. Catharines. The Rite of Committal will take place at Pleasantview Memorial Gardens.
