On May 31, 2024 we lost our dearly beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, Tony (Antonio) Dalle Ave.

Tony was born on March 5, 1952, to Irma (née Basso) and Gastone Dalle Ave in his cherished home town of Asiago, Italy. His father emigrated to Canada soon afterwards to build a financial foundation for the family, and Tony and his mom finally joined him in 1957, just shortly before Tony's 5th birthday. He adapted quickly to his new environment, always within the Italian community, and spent a happy childhood in Thunder Bay.

After high school, he chose medical technology as his field of work, and then upgraded his certificate with a degree in Clinical Chemistry. While working in the laboratory of Port Arthur General Hospital, he met a student there, which would change the course of his life. The student was Sonja, his future wife. They got married on May 28, 1983, after a few short months of dating and engagement, and moved to Germany for 2 years. Tony worked in the blood bank of the German Red Cross and in the genetics section of the University of Ulm.

In 1985, they moved back to Canada and a year later, their first son, Christopher, was born. The young family settled in Oakville, which they cherished as a wonderful place to raise their family and find support in their faith journey. In 1991, their second son, Giancarlo, came along, followed by their third son, Paul, in 1997. His parents and brother George also followed his tracks and relocated from Thunder Bay to Oakville. Tony's family was the world to him.

What sustained him through many turbulent times was his strong Catholic faith.  He constantly read up and deepened his faith through teaching RCIA classes (preparation courses to become Catholic), which also rewarded him with many profound connections and friendships.

After some turns, Tony's career took him to the pharmaceutical industry as a Regulatory Affairs Manager.  He was relied upon for his diligent and efficient work, as much as for his hilarious comments at the most unexpected moments. The whole company seemed to feel a loss when he retired in August of 2016.

Retirement was a good stage up until his diagnosis. Tony and his wife enjoyed much family time with their sons, daughters-in-law, and granddaughter Chiara, as well as visits to his beloved hometown and a number of pilgrimages and other trips. These years were too short.

In March 2023, Tony was diagnosed with brain cancer. As it was inoperable, he received radio and chemotherapy, which helped for a little while. However, the disease relentlessly devastated his body. After months of struggling, he passed away peacefully at home in the morning of May 31, 2024.

Tony is survived by his loving family: his spouse, Sonja (nee Liedl); children Christopher (Denise), Giancarlo (Abbey), and Paul; granddaughter Chiara; brother George (Karla) with nieces Renata and Sabrina; sister-in-law Gundi (Peter) and brother-in-law Josef (Christine), and many relatives and friends in Asiago and Canada. He is predeceased by his loving parents Irma and Gastone and all uncles and aunts.

The visitation will be on Friday June 7th from 3pm-5pm and 7pm-9pm at Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville (one block East of Kerr Street)  including prayers with Rev. Fr. Jerzy Tomon at 7:30 pm and the rosary at 8:45 pm.

The funeral mass will be held on Saturday June 8th at 9am at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 181 Sewell Avenue, Oakville followed by a reception at the church.

The family would like to thank the many people involved in caring for the spiritual and physical needs for Tony, including Rev. Fr. Jerzy Tomon, Rev. Fr. Jerry Punnassery, our Legionary Fathers, Dr. Anisha Prasad, Dr. Yasmine Hussain, nurse Vivian, PSW Martha, and Marcella, and especially our dear friends for their loving care and compassion.

In response to inquiries about donations in Tony's name, Tony recently supported the work of the friars of St. Anthony's Basilica by donating to the Messenger of St. Anthony .  Your favourite charity would be just as appreciated.