Obituary for Orazio "Ozzie" Ala
Ozzie passed away peacefully at home on June 17, 2023, surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of 43 years to Maria (nee Militello); loving father of Frankie and Francesca (Tom Schnekenburger); dear brother of Joe Ala (Carrie) and Salvatore Ala (Brigitte); treasured Nonno of Noah, Austin, and Lucas. Many nieces, nephews, and friends will sadly miss him.
Ozzie held a special place in his heart for his family. Over 43 years, his marriage to Maria was a resilient love story, characterized by a quiet, yet enduring commitment. As a father, he formed deep connections with Frankie and Francesca, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Embracing his role as a playful Nonno, he brought joy and laughter to his three grandsons. Ozzie cherished his brothers, treasuring the close relationships they shared.
Ozzie retired after a 25-year career as an automotive mechanic at Bell Canada. After retirement, he developed a deep passion for cycling that shaped the last 15 years of his life. He cultivated remarkable friendships with his fellow cycling enthusiasts. Ozzie found great joy in his fishing trips to the French River alongside his friends. A true jack-of-all-trades, Ozzie was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Gardening brought him immense pride, especially in his flourishing cucuzzi plants. An avid audiophile, he had a profound love for music. Additionally, Ozzie remained a lifelong fan of the Red Wings. He also served as a former board member of the ATS.
Ozzie will be forever remembered in the hearts of everyone who knew him and never forgotten.
We extend a special thank you to the dedicated doctors who provided exceptional care to Ozzie: Dr. Price, Dr. Bergeron, Dr. Tsiaprailis and Dr. O'Callahan. Your compassion and support throughout his illness have been deeply appreciated.
We also thank the nursing staff from Saint Elizabeth Healthcare and the Personal Support Workers (PSWs) from Bayshore, VON, and iAid. Your dedication, professionalism, and compassionate care made a significant difference in Ozzie's life and brought comfort to our family.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the dear friends who faithfully visited Ozzie every week for the last 17 months. Your visits brought a ray of light into his life and provided much-needed respite for our family. We are grateful for the cherished moments and memories we all created together.
We deeply thank our amazing family, friends, and neighbours for their incredible support during this challenging time. Your kindness, generosity, and willingness to help have touched our hearts profoundly. From the nourishing meals to the assistance with household tasks, your selflessness and thoughtfulness have made a significant impact. Your acts of kindness not only eased our burdens but also reminded us of the power of community and the strength of friendship.
Lastly, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the angel who bravely took the lead, faced the headwind, and pulled us along during the final sprint of Ozzie's care. Your selfless act propelled us forward and made a significant difference in his journey. We are forever thankful for your expertise, compassion and support in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Canadian CJD Association or to Journey Home Hospice.Cremation has taken place. Memorial visiting Friday, June 23, 2023 from 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Families First Funeral Home, 3260 Dougall Ave. South Windsor, 519-969-5841. On Saturday, June 24, 2023 family and friends are invited to meet after 10:00 am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (4401 Mt. Royal Dr.) for a memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m.
Ozzie held a special place in his heart for his family. Over 43 years, his marriage to Maria was a resilient love story, characterized by a quiet, yet enduring commitment. As a father, he formed deep connections with Frankie and Francesca, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Embracing his role as a playful Nonno, he brought joy and laughter to his three grandsons. Ozzie cherished his brothers, treasuring the close relationships they shared.
Ozzie retired after a 25-year career as an automotive mechanic at Bell Canada. After retirement, he developed a deep passion for cycling that shaped the last 15 years of his life. He cultivated remarkable friendships with his fellow cycling enthusiasts. Ozzie found great joy in his fishing trips to the French River alongside his friends. A true jack-of-all-trades, Ozzie was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Gardening brought him immense pride, especially in his flourishing cucuzzi plants. An avid audiophile, he had a profound love for music. Additionally, Ozzie remained a lifelong fan of the Red Wings. He also served as a former board member of the ATS.
Ozzie will be forever remembered in the hearts of everyone who knew him and never forgotten.
We extend a special thank you to the dedicated doctors who provided exceptional care to Ozzie: Dr. Price, Dr. Bergeron, Dr. Tsiaprailis and Dr. O'Callahan. Your compassion and support throughout his illness have been deeply appreciated.
We also thank the nursing staff from Saint Elizabeth Healthcare and the Personal Support Workers (PSWs) from Bayshore, VON, and iAid. Your dedication, professionalism, and compassionate care made a significant difference in Ozzie's life and brought comfort to our family.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the dear friends who faithfully visited Ozzie every week for the last 17 months. Your visits brought a ray of light into his life and provided much-needed respite for our family. We are grateful for the cherished moments and memories we all created together.
We deeply thank our amazing family, friends, and neighbours for their incredible support during this challenging time. Your kindness, generosity, and willingness to help have touched our hearts profoundly. From the nourishing meals to the assistance with household tasks, your selflessness and thoughtfulness have made a significant impact. Your acts of kindness not only eased our burdens but also reminded us of the power of community and the strength of friendship.
Lastly, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the angel who bravely took the lead, faced the headwind, and pulled us along during the final sprint of Ozzie's care. Your selfless act propelled us forward and made a significant difference in his journey. We are forever thankful for your expertise, compassion and support in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Canadian CJD Association or to Journey Home Hospice.Cremation has taken place. Memorial visiting Friday, June 23, 2023 from 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Families First Funeral Home, 3260 Dougall Ave. South Windsor, 519-969-5841. On Saturday, June 24, 2023 family and friends are invited to meet after 10:00 am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (4401 Mt. Royal Dr.) for a memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m.