Tony Masciotra

Donatantonio “Tony” Masciotra, in his 87th year, was peacefully received into the Lord’s home, lovingly surrounded by his family. Tony was born in Agnone, Italy on September 16th, 1938 and baptized at San’ Antonio Catholic Church. He was predeceased by his parents, Angelo and Filomena Masciotra, grandparents Guiseppe Nicole and Christina Masciotra, his brother Nicola, his sister Lucietta, and daughter-in-law Michelina.

Tony is survived by his devoted, ever-loving wife of 64 years, Franca (Casciano). Cherished father of Angelo (Grace), Ida (Larry), Lisa (Luigi), and Michael (Wendy). Treasured Nonno “Grampa” of Christoper (Olivia), Jessica (Shawn), Jess (Garrett), Matthew (Erica), Sebastian, Claire (Philip), Mark, Allison and Samuel. Loving Great Grampa of Jonah, Mason and Harlow, Jack and Molly, Dillon and Denver. Survived by his extraordinary brother Felice (Emma), sister-in-law Mercede, and niece Carmelita. Tony is fondly remembered by his many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Tony grew up in an agricultural community in the hills of Agnone, Italy. As a young boy, he cared for the family’s flock of sheep, the vineyards and the land. At the age of 18, Tony arrived at Pier 21 in Halifax, on the feast of St. Anthony on January 17, 1957. In June of 1961, Tony married the love of his life, Franca. They built a home together and raised four children, focusing on preserving the Italian traditions of making wine, homemade sausage, growing tomatoes and making sauce to enjoy with freshly made pasta. He enjoyed when the family would gather around the table on Sunday afternoons to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions. Tony and Franca loved to travel together and enjoyed many vacations. 

Tony learned the construction trade through years of hard work, partnering with his brothers in the cement business, operating Masciotra Concrete as a respected contractor for over 65 years. He was a founding member of the Abruzzi e Molise Association, and held the position of president. Tony was an active member of the Marconi Club of London. He was a devout Catholic and parishioner of St. Andrew the Apostle. Annually, he supported the San’ Onofrio Picnic, which served as an offertory to the Patron Saint of Agnone. Tony was an avid bowler and bocce ball player, who liked to score keep and referee. A “master” card enthusiast, Tony was always holding a joker, ready to win another hand in Canasta. Tony loved company. He was happiest when he could offer guests his homemade wine and a delicious meal accompanied by stories of the good old days. While singing folk songs, listening to traditional Italian music and opera, Tony would comment, “It makes me come alive again.

”The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre, University Hospital Palliative Care Unit, and The Sisters of St. Joseph’s Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion, bringing the family much peace and comfort.

Visitation will be on Monday, September 1st, from 2-5 p.m., at O’Neil Funeral Home, 350 William Street, London. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, September 2nd, at 11 a.m. in St. Andrew The Apostle Parish, 1 Fallons Lane, London. Entombment follows at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 806 Victoria Street, London.In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Tony’s memory to St. Joseph’s Hospice at www.sjhospicelondon.com/ways-to-give or The Canadian Cancer Society at www.cancer.ca

Online condolences & Guest Book at www.oneilfuneralhome.ca