Obituary of Attilio Meriano

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Attilio Meriano, who departed peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Friday, December 27, at the age of 81. Attilio was born in Castelvetere sul Calore, Italy, on February 1, 1943, and was the youngest son of Ernesto Meriano and Celeste Follo. He immigrated to Canada in 1967 with his sister Gerarda. He is predeceased by his parents and his 12 siblings: Pasquale, Silvio, Maria Antonia, Amalia, Michelina, Albino, Gerarda, Adolfo, Benito, Carmela, and two infant siblings, Michelina and Genesio. This is the end of an era for the Meriano family.

Attilio will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 57 years, Vincenza DeAngelis Meriano. He will also be missed by his children, Lina (Tony) and Ernesto (Aimee), and his beloved grandchildren Danielle (Iain), Alessia (Shayne), Gavin, and Ava. Attilio was a proud bis-nonno to Krew and Aria, who brought him immense joy. He will also be missed by his sister-in-law Maria. His legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the values and traditions he so lovingly nurtured.

A proud founding member of the Italian Canadian Social Club, Attilio was a dedicated advocate for celebrating and preserving Italian heritage within the community. His passion extended to his cherished role as a long-standing committee member of the Festa della Madonna delle Grazie, where his contributions were instrumental in keeping traditions alive for generations to come.

Attilio found joy in the simple and meaningful aspects of life. And lived by a strong work ethic. He tended a large vegetable garden with care and pride, sharing its bounty with family and friends. A talented winemaker. Attilio worked at Motor Wheel for many years and was proud of the maintenance work he later performed at the Alzheimer’s Society of Chatham-Kent, where his dedication and skills made a lasting impact. Known for his quiet deminer and a high-spirited nature. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes, and he was a great storyteller, often recounting the many adventures he shared with family and friends in Italy. Attilio also loved to dance the waltz, especially with his beloved wife, Vincenza, creating beautiful memories together on the dance floor.

He will be remembered for his kind spirit, warm smile, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 29, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. The funeral mass will take place on Monday, December 30, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ursula’s Church.

In lieu of flowers, and due to Attilio’s devotion to the Madonna delle Graze, donations can be made to the continuation of the Festa della Madonna delle Grazie (you can etransfer to madonnachatham@gmail.com or make donation at funeral home), ensuring that Attilio’s passion for preserving this cherished tradition lives on for years to come.

Rest in peace, dear Papa Attilio. Your life enriched ours in countless ways.