Tribute Wall
In Memory of
John Anthony Vella
1942 - 2020
Loading...
C
Colette uploaded photo(s)
Friday, July 10, 2020
/public-file/1839/Ultra/5b15b4af-e3c1-449a-949b-a418fe11403d.jpeg
Thank you to everyone who made this day so wonderful for my family and my Dad. We are blessed to have such amazing family and friends.
T
Tracey Opyc pledged to donate to Stronach Regional Cancer Centre @ Southlake Regional Health Centre
Friday, July 10, 2020
My heart and thoughts are with you Colette and your family. X❤️
Please wait
M
Myriam Gagne pledged to donate to MARGARET BAHEN HOSPICE
Thursday, July 9, 2020
In memory of Mr. John Anthony Vella from the HR Department at Desjardins General Insurance Group.
Please wait
Sydney Emmett uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
/public-file/1837/Ultra/7d090bc4-785a-4729-99a2-9bdc94f812e8.jpeg
/public-file/1838/Ultra/95f87f74-d503-40f1-8f07-1a7bdb83d659.jpeg
To my grand father I will always love you I hope u are happy you were the best grand father ever.I remember this photo of when you gave me my Showing machine I was so happy .RIP❤️❤️ And the other photo is him holding me as a wee baby.
&
& Mrs. John Facecchia posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
I first met John about 20 years ago at Northern Computers were we worked together on the Sutton Fair & Horse Show website. He was a great supporter of the Fair, winning the World's Finest Show website design award, manning the Information Booth at the Fair and coming up with advertising slogans that were used for many years. My husband and I attended John and Muriel's infamous Canada Day parties and to this day I never put up my Canada Day decorations without thinking of the Vella's. They welcomed me into their home where we would drink countless cups of tea and talk about all things imaginable. John made my first trip to the Blue Jays spring training most enjoyable with tips on what to do and see and I still have the map on which he carefully highlighted every item. John was one-of-a-kind. He touched many lives and mine is certainly better for knowing him. I hope he has found the peace and comfort he so well deserves. Goodbye my friend. You will never be forgotten.
T
Tina Schwarz pledged to donate to MARGARET BAHEN HOSPICE
Sunday, July 5, 2020
Ken, myself and our entire family would like to extend our deepest condolences to you all xxoo
Please wait
N
Nick3@rigers.com lit a candle
Sunday, July 5, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle2.png
My deepest condolences to the Vella family .
I had the pleasure of meeting John about 8 years ago through his beautiful daughter Colette . Colette had told me a lot about her father but my fondness memory of John was his knowledge about baseball and a huge Blue Jays fan .This was a tough one for me being a Red Sox fan . We chatted a lot about baseball and I really was impressed with his knowledge of the game and much he know about the Jays . Not only was he a Jays fan but a devoted father , husband , grandfather and a master of all trades .
Everytime Colette and I were going to visit her father I had to prepare myself about more Jays talk so I did some research of the Jays so I can impress him .
You’ll be missed and God bless you .
Go Jays Go
&
& Mr. A. Versace pledged to donate to Stronach Regional Cancer Centre @ Southlake Regional Health Centre
Saturday, July 4, 2020
Rest In Peace John. Love Lucky, Margaret & Family.
Please wait
M
Megan Cain lit a candle
Friday, July 3, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle6.png
Our condolences to Auntie Muriel, Mark, Tina, Anthony, Martina, Maureen, Tom, Joshua, Colette, Sydney and Nick. My brothers and I have so many fond memories at Jacksons Point. Uncle John and Auntie Muriel played a huge role in the memories. Eveytime we came up to visit my Grandparents, Uncle John was always so quick to give us a ride on his tracker, we always looked forward to that. Canada Day; those parties are a true legacy. We always had so much fun kicking off summer holidays with the memorable Canada day parties. We knew we were always extra safe if Uncle John joined us on our walks because he had his protective walking stick with him. Uncle John will be missed by our family.
L
Lianne Carter lit a candle
Thursday, July 2, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle4.png
To the Vella Family - So very sorry to hear about the passing of John. I wanted to share a memory I have so that when things settle a bit, you are able to read through all of these wonderful notes from people and remember what an awesome guy he was. About 15 years ago, I went on a trip to Wales with John's daughter Colette. Before we left John said "I'll call you when you get there so I know you arrived safe". How on earth was he going to do that? I was blown away when this "dad" somehow knew how to use the "world wide web" to call us using his computer without incurring long distance charges! This is back in 2005 and I didn't even know how to use the internet to do that! Everyone else was still on dial-up and he had rigged up modems and who-knows-what in his office at home to make it all work.
I remember when Mr. Vela gave me my first tutorial on how to create a website - here's this "old guy" with more knowledge than me about back-end coding and website creation. He was ahead of his time for sure. His passion sparked my interest in the industry and I ended up learning how to do it too. I remember the tour of his house he gave me that day - he took his time, and every item in the house had a meaningful sentiment - and he was such a great storyteller. He was surrounded by things that really meant something to him, his life-time collection of special things that brought him joy and reminded him of his family.
Over the years I have grown to appreciate and respect the special relationship that Colette had with her dad. I know that for years she would call him every day and check in. I really admired that commitment and the unique bond they shared.
My thoughts are with Maureen, Mark, Colette and their extended families as you all navigate through these next steps together. xoxo
D
Don Muscat posted a condolence
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Our deepest sympathy to Muriel, Mark, Maureen and Colette, and to Loretto, Paul and Peter. John inspired us to be loving, caring and strong of Faith. May he rest in Peace.
The Muscat Family, George, Carmen, Mike and Jean, Don and Kathi
K
Kirsten posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
My memories of John Vella are of “Colette’s Dad” I heard so many stories of him and saw how he and She were so alike. Strength, sense of humor, get it done people. He remains strong in the hearts and stories of the Vella family. I love you all.
M
Michele Picariello lit a candle
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle9.png
Our family was heartbroken to hear of the loss of Uncle John. Our thoughts and prayers are with Auntie Muriel, Mark, Tina, Maureen, Tom, Collette, Nick, Joshua, Anthony, Martina and Sydney. We hope you all will find strength in all the wonderful memories and that they will bring you comfort in the days ahead. Our families have shared so many wonderful times together over the years. Many of our Jackson’s Point memories include the Vella Family. The wonderful times we shared at the beach, bonfires, Canada Day Celeberations and the many walks into the point. It can be said that a man is a success – who has lived well, laughed often and loved much. Well I would have to say Uncle John you had all of all of these. You will be greatly missed and may your guiding hand remain on your families shoulder forever. God Bless and may you rest in peace Uncle John.
Lots of love,
Michele, Mike, Nicole, Mario and Olivia Picariello
M
Marie and John Digings posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
We were so sad to hear of John’s passing and would like to offer our deepest sympathy to Muriel, Mark, Maureen and Colette along with all of the Vella family. We had such a nice chat with John at a family reunion. We talked about everything and I am glad I have the memory. Rest in peace.
Marie and John Digings
P
Paul Vella lit a candle
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle.png
Dear John,
It’s Canada Day but - I don’t know - something’s missing this year. Anna and I have put our flags up around the house. It’s not Birch Road but I think you’d approve.
So many memories have flooded back - the walks to look at the hobby shop Christmas window, the siding you built for my Lionel electric train set, cheering me up when I realized that my “new” bike was twenty years old - and serving your wedding Mass with Peter! You built me my very own crystal radio when we had wall-to-wall brothers in that bedroom. What about the day we finally launched our “new” canoe and those not so sober boaters tried to drown us in the Nottawasaga?
This spring our phone calls had me crying with laughter as you recalled, in minute detail, other significant events from my childhood - and some of your stories were even true!
Most of all, Anna, Jennifer, Diane and I remember your and Muriel’s kindness at so many family gatherings and special days. When we moved into our homes, you alway showed up with your tool belt and the brotherly advice that you imparted to me: “Paul. You keep talking but I have work to do here.”
I trust that you will reunite with Mom and Dad. If you three didn’t make it, then the rest of us, well, we don’t have a prayer. Look for Mom in the garden wearing her kerchief and planting some orphan rose bush. And Dad? Well, ask St. Peter if there’s a race track up there.
John, I won’t say good-bye but I will say adieu. Check out all of the love that you, Muriel and the kids have received in these listings. We’re thinking of you. As you always say, “It’s Canada Day, eh!”
Brother Paul
D
Dubravko Petrovich lit a candle
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle.png
One of the best things in my life is how John welcomed me into the Vella family. The first time we met I was so impressed how the family values were important to him. I knew from that moment I wanted to be a member of the Vella family. Rest In Peace. You will be in my heart forever. Duby.
P
Paul DeCarli posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
Our deepest condolences to John's family and friends.
Uncle John was the man that made me realize you don't just have to be one thing in this life. As Colette wrote in her recent FaceBook post, John was "a self made man. He was an electrician, family man, Grandfather, husband, devout Catholic, member of Knights of Columbus, hockey coach, problem solver, inventor, business owner and friend."
We should strive to achieve half of what John was to his loved ones.
He will be greatly missed.
M
MaryAnne Henry pledged to donate to Stronach Regional Cancer Centre @ Southlake Regional Health Centre
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
My sincere sympathy to all of you
Love Mrs.Henry
Please wait
L
Loretto Vella lit a candle
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle.png
As I read the tributes to John, I realize how special he was to so many people. My memories of John show a side of him that many of you may not know.. He was my Superman! Born only 13 months after me, he was given the role of protector at the tender age of 5 years when it became his duty to escort me to and from St. Clare’s and later St Matthew’s, school 4 times a day. He did this from his first day in grade one until my last day in eighth grade. During these years, he was also charged with keeping an eye on me during recess - no “bullying Loretto” when John Vella was around. While John was in grade 8, I moved on to High School. I’m sure he enjoyed his year or two of respite - but by the time he reached 10th grade, I was tagging along again. Our parents decided that I could only have a social life if John allowed me to be a part of his - a fantastic advantage to a teenaged girl in the 50’s with a brother at St Mike’s! CYO dances, Sock Hops at St Mike’s and St Joe’s, skating at Keelsdale Arena and parties at Lucky’s house became available to me under the watchful eye of my little (but wiser) brother. Our parent/child relationship lasted until I graduated High School and I will forever be grateful. Thank you John for your love and patience during those years and for continuing to look out for me for the rest of your life. Rest In Peace! I love you.
Loretto
C
Christinetc lit a candle
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle3.png
Mrs Vella, Colette, Maureen and Mark,
My heartfelt condolences to you all, when I think of your dad I always remember us as kids in the court and all of our great memories From the basketball net that was set up in front of your house, your dads Gremlin, Ziggy, camping in your back yard or just hanging on the porch. Your house had the best basement TV room with a fancy stereo and TV! Although Your dad is not here physically he will always live through you all in spirit and from heaven he will watch over you and I am sure always with pride and a smile. God Bless and all my love Christine
D
Diane Waechter lit a candle
Monday, June 29, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle3.png
My condolences to all members of the Vella family. I personally did not know John Vella, however Paul and Anna were good friends in the St. Wilfrid's choir days back in the 70s early 80s. Paul & Anna, your example of service in the parish community was certainly an influence in my formative teenage years. And, thank you for the Friday night choir parties you hosted at the Woodbridge town home. What a long time ago that was. At this time of your loss, know that my prayers are with you and take comfort that your brother John was welcomed into God's presence with the "Songs of the Angels". To all the family, take comfort in each other and continue to "live" with John as you share your many memories of him. Diane Waechter.
L
Lucky and Margaret lit a candle
Monday, June 29, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle3.png
Our deepest cindolences to the Vella family. Our hearts are very heavy. We are feeling very sad to say goodbye to John. I feel I lost a brother and great friend. So many beautiful memories since the 50's. Even getting engaged and married in 1963. Muriel and Margaret becoming like sisters. All the fun with our kids growing up together and trips to Florida. Especially the summers at Jackson's Point. Our Love and support is always here for Muriel, Mark, Maureen, Collette and families. Lots of Love Lucky and Margaret.
J
Joe DeCarli posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
My deepest condolences to Aunt Muriel, Mark, Maureen, Collette and the rest of the family.
To be completely honest, I was always a little intimidated by Uncle John as a kid - he seemed so much *bigger* than all the other adults, not just in size :-) but in his presence, his voice, his command of a room, and especially his laugh. It didn't matter where you were in the house, you knew when Uncle John found something funny.
Even though I was sometimes a little apprehensive around him, I loved visiting, and learned a lot - all about shortwave radio, computers (well before most people knew what they were let alone had them in their homes), and I vividly remember he was the first person to turn me on to Leon Redbone. I always thought of him as one of my coolest relatives - of course in retrospect I think that's because we were both really big nerds.
In later years I didn't get a chance to visit as much as I should have, but I'll have the memories of the times we did spend together, and of his influence on this now-grown nerd, for the rest of my life.
Rest in peace Uncle John.
R
Rosemary Versace lit a candle
Monday, June 29, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle.png
In lovng memory of Uncle John. I say to the Vella Family he was loved deeply. Uncle John, Auntie Muriel and the Vella family played a hug role in my life growing up. This was treasured by me. Our families were very intertwined for so many years. This relationship continues to be treasured. I wish peace for Uncle John. My other wish would be for the rest of the Vella' family. I hope you all would find comfort in the deep love felt for him. He was Uncle John that was special enough for me. I send my deepest and heart felt love to you all. My heart is broken for you all. Hugs and kisses in this difficult time. A very special hug and kiss to Auntie Muriel. God Bless, all of you. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
E
Eamair posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
I became part of the Vella family in the late 70’s , while visiting from Ireland. Uncle John and Aunt Muriel welcomed me into their home , treating me as one of their own.
I spent many happy summers with them all in Rathlin Court , and later Richmond Hill and Jackson Point .
Uncle John was a very genuine, generous and kind man .
My sincerest condolences to Aunt Muriel, Maureen,Colette ,Mark and their families.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love Eamair
A
Ann Montgomery posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
Dear Muriel, on behalf of the Hunwicks family, I wish to extend our sincere sympathy and prayers to you and your family at this sad time. Growing up together with the Vella family on Trowell Avenue, we were blessed to share many fond memories of John and his family. God Bless, Ann Montgomery (Hunwicks)
J
Joan Vella pledged to donate to Stronach Regional Cancer Centre @ Southlake Regional Health Centre
Monday, June 29, 2020
Deepest condolences Love Aunt Joan
Please wait
Peter Vella posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
As a young man John Vella was this vibrant, innovative, and hard working man that all his family was so proud of. What really set him apart though was the strength and character that he retained through all his challenges of the last twenty seven years. As much as he did not have the retirement he had planned for, he told me he felt lucky for every day that he has had since his first cancer diagnosis in 1993. He said he would not have met four special people if things had turned out differently. He was referring to Joshua, Anthony, Martina, and Sydney; his grandchildren. As sad as they will be about losing John I am sure they feel lucky for their time together as well.
Mark Maureen and Colette managed to glean the best of their father and that has been obvious in the people that have become and their efforts over the last few months.
Muriel was a ray of sunshine that gave that young rebel (with a few causes) the loving base to create their nest upon. John and Muriel took turns caring for one another through all their challenges.
Having John Vella as a brother meant always having this iconic tower of strength and compassion; even after his own trials began. Sometimes being close to him could be daunting. How would I find the words that balanced empathy and respect, how would I thank him in a way that was beyond politeness. He and I would probably agree that the norms of the times we grew up in would make this even harder. I think the best way I can say it is simply, “John, I love you and truly Rest In Peace.”.
V
Veronica Horner-Sartoretto posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
I did not know John well although whenever I did see him at Immaculate Conception or St. Anthony's he always had a smile and a warm hello. I know John as being a very devout and faithful man, along with his dear wife Muriel. My dear late husband Tony Sartoretto admired him very much. Well done, good and faithful servant, are fitting words for you, John.
May Angels guide your way to heaven.
Sincere condolences to the Vella family at this very difficult time.
God Bless,
Veronica Horner-Sartoretto
D
Diane, Americo & Family posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
Our hearts are broken. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to Auntie Muriel, Mark,Tina, Maureen,Tom, Collett, Nick, Joshua, Anthony, Martina & Sydney. Our deepest love as you all find strength to get through this difficult time.Uncle John told me when he was diagnosed more than 25 years ago. That he needed to see me. He had a dream. I had gone through a rough divorce and had 3 young kids. I was told I would meet a wonderful man and he would be a great dad to my kids. I definitely wasn't ready for that. Well months later. Sept 9/1994 I meet him on a blind date. Long story short. We have been married more than 22 years. Americo has been an amazing dad to my 3 kids and we had 1 more. Our families have wonderful memories together. Lots of love to all of you. Love and Prayers Diane, Americo, & family
G
Gina Betts posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
So sorry to hear of this loss. Although we never had a chance to meet in person, we know what an incredible daughter and granddaughter he has so no doubt he was a wonderful soul who loved his family dearly and deeply. Wishing you all some healing through cherished memories. Love the Betts xoxo
g
greg.wood@tblmarketing.ca posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
Our condolences to the Vella family. Though I never met John, through Colette’s fond descriptions and the love of her Dad, it felt like I knew him. Peace be with everyone.
Greg, Josie and Madeleine.
M
Margaret Bahen Hospice posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
It was an honour to care for John at Margaret Bahen Hospice. On behalf of the entire MB Hospice family, please accept our deepest sympathies.
A
Albert Nangini pledged to donate to Stronach Regional Cancer Centre @ Southlake Regional Health Centre
Monday, June 29, 2020
My most heartfelt condolences for the loss of John Vella.
Please wait
R
Rose Sheppard posted a condolence
Monday, June 29, 2020
To Muriel, Mark, Colette & Maureen and all the Vella family: John was a wonderful father and husband. I most admired him for the care he took with Muriel. He always talk so proudly of his wife and family. He was a strong Catholic and I will miss his attendance at Mass in the parish of Immaculate Conception. May the dear Lord take him by the hand and lead him to Heaven to be with Him always. Rest in Peace, John.
A
Adam Sawyer lit a candle
Sunday, June 28, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle10.png
Thinking of you in your time of loss. May the lessons your father gave you last a lifetime, and may you always feel his spirit nearby.
C
Colette lit a candle
Sunday, June 28, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle4.png
My Dad was in remission for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma for over 20 years, in 2019 he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He had 12 radiation treatment for 1 of the 200 cancers without a name. Doctors could not figure out the next step in his treatment plan and then COVID-19 lockdown started and everything stopped.
My Dad was a self made man. He was an electrician, family man, Grandfather, husband, devout Catholic, member of Knights of Columbus, hockey coach, problem solver, inventor, business owner and friend. As kids every Sunday we would have my Grandparents over for dinner. On big holidays we would have all our family and friends celebrating at our house. For years my parents would host Canada Day at the cottage with well over 100’s people each year in attendance. My Dad taught us the importance of connecting, making relationships, always try to do better and he believed in us.
The last few years and up to June 12/2020 my Dad, with his failing health, looked after my Mom. This task gave him purpose and he wanted my Mom to be in familiar surroundings, as her memory continues to change and fade. My Dad said to me just 2 weeks ago, how my Mom’s disease is worse than his, taking away her memories. My Dad was a strong man right to the end, never giving up and being at peace with his decisions and choices.
If you know Vella’s, we are strong willed, determined and always right. We can be a little sarcastic at times and we never forget. Vella’s are trusting, loving, we will do anything for you and will give you everything we have. This was my Dad, the first love of my life. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers, I will never forget you. 6/26/2020
C
Cathy Bonello posted a condolence
Sunday, June 28, 2020
My sincerest condolences to Muriel and children, Loretto, Paul and Peter. My cousin John and I would occasionally exchange e-mails, and I remember the wonderful family reunion held at their home in 2011. My thoughts and prayers are with John and his family.
R
Reena Patel lit a candle
Saturday, June 27, 2020
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/Candle.png
Our heartfelt condolences to the Vella Family and may your father now Rest In Peace. God Bless. Love Reena Patel and Family.
v
The family of John Anthony Vella uploaded a photo
Saturday, June 27, 2020
/tribute-images/1168/Ultra/John-Vella.jpeg
Please wait
LATHANGUE CHAPEL (Funeral Establishment Operator - Class 1) FE-51
30 Simcoe Road | P.O. Box 318 | Bradford, ON | L3Z 2A9
905-775-3335 | 1-800-209-4803
THEAKER CHAPEL (Funeral Establishment Operator - Class 1) FE-293
19153 Centre Street | Mount Albert, ON | L0G 1M0
905-895-8062 | 1-800-209-4803