Mario Enzo De Anna
May 29, 2013
With dignity and grace, after a valiant fight, Mario Enzo De Anna passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 29th, surrounded by his loving family. At 70 years of age, born April 10, 1943 in Windsor, Ontario, Mario left us the same way he lived his life; with optimism, determination, and appreciation for all that God had given him. Son of the late Frank and Adelaide (nee Puppi) of Cordenone, Italy and son-in-law of the late Michael and Helen (nee Rouffer) Roland. Beloved husband of his high school sweetheart Patricia (nee Roland) with whom he shared 48 years of wonderful marriage. Devoted and supportive father to Christine Elizabeth De Anna and Colleen Melissa Buckley. A true friend, mentor and father-in-law to Peter Buckley. His greatest source of pride and joy were his adoring grandchildren, Peter Boniface II, “Secondo” and Adelaide Deanna, his “Bella Della”. Born on the same day as his older brother and best friend, Walter (Marilou) De Anna and their children, Constance (Bob) Lempke (Michelle, Jordan, Bailey, Nick and Drew), Michelle (Kirk) Krause (Kyle, Sarah and Kody), Robert (Holly) De Anna (Abby and Kelsey). Mario will be fondly remembered by his in-laws and their families: the late Richard, Jill & Bruce Pearson (Todd Roland [Elli], Shawna & Rob Cunningham [Erin and Mitchell], Kami & Ryan Knight [Sophie and Maya]; Randal & Alyson Roland (Jordan and Garrett); Mickey & Karen Roland (Kate and Matthew); Gloria & Ronald Whitehead, (Linnea & Joel Knight [Lily and Maddy], Len Whitehead); John & Cindy Roland (Connor and Darby). Mario followed his brother to the University of Dayton Ohio, to achieve his first degree, B. SC. while enjoying a successful varsity hockey career for the Dayton Flyers. He returned to Windsor, Ontario, in 1965, to marry the love of his life Patricia and begin his career in the automotive industry at Ford Motor Company and International Harvester. While being a father to two infants, he achieved his M.B.A while attending night school at the University of Detroit, Michigan. Re-locating to Burlington, Ontario, to continue his career in Labour Relations at Ford Canada, he decided to leave car manufacturing and enter the world of hamburger manufacturing. He was a proud McDonald’s Owner/Operator of his first location in Strathroy, Ontario, in 1983, until his sale of the locations in Sarnia to his daughter, Colleen, in 2007 when he retired. He was always grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a global organization that allowed him to act locally and take care of his people. Clearly, after 17 years on the Human Resources advisory board for McDonald’s Canada he shared the belief with Ray Kroc that “none of us is as good as all of us”. His retirement provided time to enjoy his second home in the community of Renaissance Centre in Fort Myers, Florida. A place to golf with his fellow franchise operators and share it with visiting family and friends from the North. His favourite past time was travelling the world with his wife be it on the many wonderful cruises, or trips to visit his cousins in Italy, wine tours in France or incredible experiences in Japan, Russia, Hawaii, and especially his final trip to Africa. Las Vegas was always a favourite, and he and Pat visited more times than one could count. An expert at blackjack with his son-in-law and close friends. All will miss the late night vigils while “solving the problems of the world.” A proud father of his eldest daughter, Sister Christine Elizabeth (Dominican Sisters of Sparkhill). His example of academic achievement inspired her to pursue and complete four degrees. His youngest daughter and husband, Colleen and Peter, continue his legacy as McDonald’s Franchise Operators. His example and business lessons are present and thrive amongst Sarnia’s McFamily. Nothing made him smile more than seeing his grandson play ball, the most recent on “McHappy Day”, May 8th, or watching his granddaughter play piano and dance. Enjoying several Disney trips that will have so many lasting memories. He had the blessing of so many friends, especially his lifelong friends of Brian and Judi Dent. His bridge group of 25 years, friends of Forest City National Golf course where he enjoyed his time over the past few years. He loved golf and enjoyed his invitational golf tournaments especially the Cordenons Club Tournament, where he was able to reconnect each year with his extended and beloved family from both sides of the border. Mario was ultimately recognized and awarded by The Club for his business achievement as a next generation immigrant. He was also an annual participant of the Sarnia Pro-Am, as well as many golf tournaments to support his favourite charity, Ronald McDonald House of London, where he was one of the founding Board Members. Mario had many indulgences: loved his cars, to drink wine, travel the world and to golf, but most of all he loved his family. There was nothing that meant more to him than that; his family. In last days as he continued to fight against a seemingly insurmountable disease he fought to show his grandchildren to never give up, never surrender and never stop believing that God has a plan: even if we don’t understand it. We love you Mario, Husband, Brother, Dad, Grandpa, Uncle, Cousin, Godfather and friend. We will never forget you and every one of us are better people for having known you and loved you. God Bless, Mario Enzo De Anna. Visitation will be held at the WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Sunday from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. with prayers at 6:45 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica, 196 Dufferin Avenue, London, on Monday, June 3rd, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. Cremation to follow with interment at Heavenly Rest Cemetery, Windsor. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Mario are asked to consider Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario or Canadian Blood Services.
Leave a tribute for Mario Enzo De Anna
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Chris, many prayers and good wishes to you, your sister and your mother. Sounds like Mario lived all the days of his life to its fullest. May he be enjoying the fullest or rewards in his afterlife.. Love, Eileen
Dear Christine, How blessed we were to meet your father at your Profession at the Motherhouse. We send our sincerest condolences to you and your family during this sorrowful time. May God's graces fill you with His love, knowing your fathers' presence will always be with you all. God bless you.
Dear Chris Please know that you and your family are remembered very specially in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult times. I am grateful that we in Sparkill had the chance to meet him and your Mom at your profession. May the gift of the life he shared with you be a consolation. What comes to mind from Scripture is "well done good and faithful servant."
Needless to say we were deeply saddened to learn of Mario's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family as we share in your loss. We will forever picture that wide smile of Mario and remember his gentle, caring personality. Jana and I will always treasure the time we spent with you and Mario on our recent Baltic Cruise; especially the precious moments we spent together in Stockholm. Our world is a better place and we are better people because of Mario. We shall miss him
Dear Dad, It is March 16th, 2014. I have just re-read the beautiful shared thoughts and memories upon your passing. I am so proud to be your daughter and to carry on your legacy. I miss you desperately. My tears are still flowing, each and very day. Please provide us additional strength to carry on. We miss you each and every day. Addy sleeps with her teddy bear and Hospice blanket every night. Peter brings his red heart upon his travels. Your picture rests upon their bed before they close their eyes. All our love. all our life. Colleen, Peter, Secondo, and Bella Della
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario)
(Donated to Canadian Blood Services)
Feel blessed to have met Mario and Pat at Chris's Profession at Sparkill.
My prayers are with you at this time. It has been a difficult time but he is at peace and will continue to enjoy being a part of your life in the future. Love, Sister marie.
What a beautiful life story! You have such happy memories of a wonderful Dad and Husband. My thoughts and prayers are with your dear family. Be at peace.
My thoughts and prayers are with you Chris and your family in this difficult time .SO SORRY
Mario lived life with joy and zest.. He will be missed by his family and friends. We are grateful to have his daughter, Christine as a member of our Congregation. May he rest in peace.
Dear Chris, We regret we never met your dear father, but feel we know what a wonderful person he was through the above obituary. Our thoughts, sympathy, love and prayers are with you and your family during this time of grief and in the days and weeks ahead. Peace in the Compassionate Heart of Jesus Sisters Julia Marie Cody Dolores Shortal, O.P.
Chris, My prayers and sympathy for you and your family. May God's compassionate love be with at this time.
Loving him was such an easy thing to do. We'll never forget his smile.
I sure you have many fond memories that will be with you always. He sounds like he would want you to remember these but move on. This will not be easy to do. Be assured of our prayers for all of you and the repose of Mario's soul.
My prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May you receive all the blessings that you need. My love, S. Pat
Chris, many thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult days...what wonderful memories you have of your dear father, to carry in your heart always...!
Our deepest condolences to the DeAnna Family. Mario was so full of 'Life & Love' and lived his to the fullest! Thinking about you at this very heartfelt time Patricia, Christine, Colleen & Peter & children and family. We always enjoyed our times together. He will be greatly missed but the strength of his great spirit will always live on. Luv Cyn & Mike Stark & Family Blessings to each & everyone of you!
I am praying for strength and consolation for all of you. May the memories and stories you share bring you joy amid the tears. With many prayers and much love. Sr. Rosemary
I am praying for strength and consolation for all of you. May the memories and stories you share bring you joy amid the tears. With many prayers and much love. Sr. Rosemary
Dear Chris and Family, Please accept my sincere condolences during this most difficult time. Although your Dad's passing is such a tremendous loss, the wonderful memories you have will sustain you and make you strong. I am so happy to have met your dad, Mario, in Sparkill. He was so full of pride and joy for you! He just lit up the room. It was easy to see that he was a gift and blessing to many. Now he is your special angel, always in your heart. May our loving God hold all of you in the palm of his hand.
May the passing into a new life for your dad give you and your family a faith filled joy KNOWING MARIO will be a special presence to you. I am so sorry that you lost dad you loved. Many loving thoughts, Sr Marilyn
Dear DeAnna Family, I am heavy hearted to hear of your great loss. Please know of my thoughts and prayers for Mario and all of you for peace and joy to reflect on all of Mario's great contributions and love.
Dear Friends...our hearts are broken and we share with you the sadness of losing Mario. We will be eternally grateful for having the privilege of knowing him and his friendship. God bless...
Mario was a dear and wonderful friend . We always looked forward to our weekly high handicapper golf game! On behalf of all his friends at Renaissance, we will all truly miss him. He certainly deeply loved his family and often wished his grand son would play golf with us and show us up!
Though I had only a few occasions to meet Mario, he made a lasting impression. He was kind and generous, and his presence seemed to add a special joy and feeling of welcome to all those around him. May his compassion for living and his charity toward others be an inspiration for all who know Mario. We extend sincere sympathy to family and friends. Love, Dawn and Vic
Dear Pat, Christine and Colleen, We send you and your entire family are deepest sympathy and prayers.Dino and some of the "older" refs were together recently and Mario was spoken of .They were wondering if you were still in the London area.We have many happy memories of the "reffing" days.
I last saw you before Christmas for lunch with Doug C. You were my friend, my mentor, my guide in difficult decisions. You loved everyone including my two girls. How much I will miss you dear and loved friend. To Pat, Chris, Colleen, Peter, Little Peter, Della, Walt and the entire family my heartfelt condolences are extend. He now rests in the arms of God.
I offer my prayers and love as you grieve your loss. God is good and has blessed Mario's family and our world with goodness that was grace/God in Mario. Christine, please feel our love and support.
My love and prayers are with you Chris and with all of your family. I too feel blessed having met him at your Profession in Sparkill. What a wonderful human being graced your lives and taught you how to love your God and His people. The journey was a very difficult one for Mario and for each of you. May the lessons learned in adversity help you to continue your journey until all are reunited in the Kingdom. May this beautiful and cherished soul be welcomed to Paradise and be forever rewarded for his goodness.
I haven't seen Mario for over 35 years. When he was the Labour Relations Manager at International Harvester in Chatham I was the U.A.W. Plant Chairman. Obviously we had disagreements but Mario was a gentleman and his word was very important to him. I have fond memories of him. My sympathy to the entire family.
We hope you can find comfort and peace in your memories of a wonderful man and a life well-lived. We feel privileged to have met him at Chris' profession in September.We know he is with you in spirit and helping you get through this difficult time. He is very proud of all of you and your lives are his living legacy. He is finally at peace with his God and all of his loved ones who have gone before him Please know you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Maureen and Pat
My prayers are with you at this time of loss. I know you will miss Mario deeply. My prayer is that you find consolation in your memories of this wonderful man. Lovingly, Sheila Brennan, OP
We send our love and prayers to you Pat - the true hero who has shown the power of love though out this past year. Trusting that God's grace will be sufficient to carry your grief during this unimaginable time of sorrow. You'll be surrounded by the comforting arms of your family and friends...and the strength of prayer from us on the West Coast, too. Mario has left his mark on this world, and will live on and on. His generosity, his humour, his drive and determination. Knowing God and living his faith will be his greatest legacy. Blessings to the entire family. Wendy and Mike Betts - Ladner BC
My sincere sympathy to the family in their lose of their beloved Mario. In 2011 I took my daughter on the Baltic Cruise. Mario and Pat were on the same sightseeing bus as we were. Mario was so kind to my Cristin, talking to her about McDonald's and making her feel a part of the group. She saw him again at Renaissance and greeted her with his warm and welcoming smile. That kindness I will always remember. I will miss him driving through Renaissance in his little convertible with a big smile on his face. You could always count on that smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time Lynn Buskard
Mario was a great friend and a true gentleman. Always calm & an anchor in the storm. Lots of great memories! Sincerest sympathies to all the family. I know we'll all miss Mario a lot! Graham Downer
While a loving family grieves on Earth, Heaven rejoices at the arrival of a saint, Saint Mario! May you be comforted by the thoughts that he has been released from suffering and is now receiving a well earned reward. Know that you are in my prayers. May Mario's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen!
Dear DeAnna Family - We are all very sorry to hear of Mario's passing. Mario was a very respected member of the UD Hockey community and his company was enjoyed by all. We are thankful for his generous hospitality at our Golf get-togethers in Florida and grateful for the time we were able to share with him. I hope that, in this most difficult time, you are somehow able to find solace from your family and many friends. Your friend, Peter King
My deepest sympathies to the DeAnna family for your loss of Mario. Our U.D. golf outing were made quite memorable due to Mario's generosity and his companionship. The U.D. group were always treated like members at his club and that was due to the respect the club staff held for Mario. Please accept my condolences and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Joe McQueen
My sympathies to your family. I so enjoyed working with Mario over our many years at McDonald's. He was not only a great suppporter of the system but a true friend. I have missed him since my retirement. I think of you, Colleen and Peter often. Mario will be so missed in this world but they must be thrilled to see him upstairs in heaven. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Mary Anne (mad) as he called me.!
Pat, Christine, and Colleen (Red) I am so sorry to hear of Mario`s passing. He gave me my first `real` job at McDonald`s in Strathroy, and taught me so many life lessons that I still apply to my life today! If I have time to lean..I have time to clean!!!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Mario was an incredible man and will be missed greatly.
We were very sorry to learn today of Mario's passing and send our deepest sympathies to Pat, Walt and the entire De Anna family. Even as a fairly distant relative I grew up knowing Mario and his family and have always had much love and respect for him. He was a kind, generous man and faithful man and was always welcoming to me and my family. This is a very well written tribute to Mario and I absolutely agree that we are all better for knowing him. May fair winds fill your sails Mario and may you arrive at your destination with God, your parents and all the other good people who have preceded you. Dave and Jan
Dear Christine and all of the De Anna Family, We are with you in spirit and prayer during this time of loss of your dear loved one, Mario. May your memories of his wonderful life and legacy comfort you. As Mario dwells in the Heart of God, may you know he is still with you in many ways. God bless you all.
Dear Family, What a wonderful tribute Mario has received from his friends and all those who knew him. I am alittle jealous that I never got the chance to know this fine human being. I will have that opportunity when we meet in heaven and never again have to say another goodbye. Be assured of my prayers for Mario and each of you. Thank you for the wonderful care you gave him for so long. Love and prayers, Sr. Betty
I was so sad to read of Marios' passing. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with you.
We know of Mario through his daughter, Christine. Our life has been blessed knowing her and as we waited for God to call Mario Home, hearing of his faith, his life and all he accomplished in his own ministry for and with Him. May God be with all of you during this time of sorrow and yet great joy knowing that he is Home in Heaven.
When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. K. Gibran Accept my prayers and sympathy on the loss of your dad. Wonderful memories will give the strength you and your family need at this time.
Our deepest sympathies to Pat , Christine and Colleen and the rest of the family. We will miss our very good friend Mario.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We remember our days in "Strath", as Mario called it, very fondly.
Dear Christine and family, Our deepest sympathy to you on the death of your beloved father. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort to all of you. We are all united with you in spirit and prayer. Your sisters in Pakistan
Dear Christine and family, Our deepest sympathy to you on the death of your beloved father. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort to all of you. We are all united with you in spirit and prayer. Your sisters in Pakistan
Dear DeAnna Family, My prayer and sympathy at the loss of your dear husband, father, relative and friend. May you know the peace that all the love given and received brings at this difficult time. Be assurred of support from your Sparkill Sisters. Dorothy Farley
Dear Christine and Family, I too, want to add my condolences to all of you on the loss of Mario. What a great man he was and how many wonderful memories you all carry in your hearts. I am grateful that I had a chance to meet him at Christine's Profession last September. He was so proud and joyful and we all know that we now have another special saint praying for us. In the hard times ahead just meditate on his great smile and a special memory that will bring you great joy. You are in my thoughts, prayers and love. Maureen Daly O.P.
my thoughts and prayers are with you. May Godblessand strengthen you and family. Love and Prayers. Margaret
Dear Pat and family, We were very sorry to hear of Mario's passing. What a great loss for all of you. Even though we can't be there, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. Blessings, Sandy& Dino
Dear Pat,Walt,Marylou and family; The fun times we had together will always be remembered with a smile. Your love for one another and the wonderful memories you have are an inspiration to all. May the Lord bless you and keep you in the palm of his hand. Love, Barb & Tom
So sorry to hear about the passing of Mario. I have many fond memories of Mario through the years with McDonald's. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time. Terri
My deepest sympathy at the passing of your dear father. What a wonderful life he lived. Be comforted by your happy memories and all of our prayers for you and your family. May our loving and compassionate God's presence accompany you.
Dear DeAnna Family All of our Prayers are with you today and tomorrow. Mr DeAnna is received in Heaven with open arms. My you all share the Peace he is in now. Sr. Chris's Mo. Family Mary & Steve Sander Sr
Dear DeAnna Family, Words cannot express what you individually and collectively are feeling. I pray for the days ahead and for your consolation. Mario left you more than a broken heart - he left you always in his love. Be at peace knowing that peace now belongs to him. Love and prayers, Sr Kathy
Dear Colleen ,Peter and Family .I had never met your dad but the obituary shows clearly that was my loss. Fr.Antonio mentioned it to me on Friday morning. My sympathy and prayers.Mary Alice
Our sincere condolences to your families. I remember Mario from Parent Ave. in Windsor as Regina and Guglielmo Piccinin were good friends of the DeAnna's. Always remember him for his great personality.
Dear Walter and Marilou, On behalf of my brother Mario and our families, we offer our sympathies to you and your families for this great loss. We hope that you carry on as he would have liked you all to.
Thoughts and prayers with you and your family.
Mario, you made the world a better place! Thank you for the memories.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones during this most difficult time.
Dear Chris and Family, Know you are in the thoughts and prayers of the STACommunity! A Mass will be offered for the repose of the soul of your father, Chris. Asking God to bless each of you very specially! Much love, Your Sisters
Dear Patricia, We wish to express our deepest sympathies for the loss of your wonderful husband. We shall keep you in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless and keep you ever close to His heart so that He may carry you through this time of sorrow. Your arise friend, Rox-Ann and Larry
You and your family will be remembered in my prayers. May your draw strength from each other as you honor the life of your father. GEntle blessings during the days ahead.
Thinking of you and your family at this time in the loss of your beloved husband, father and best friend.
"What a wonderful life" ! God bless and prayers for your loving family now.
Dear Chris and family, My love and prayers for you at this time. You have a Saint Mario helping you. Ann Matthewt
Dear Pat, Chris and Colleen, We are so saddened by Mario's passing. He was one of the nicest persons we have ever know. In time, your many happy memories of this wonderful man will ease your curent pain. - With love from Marlene and Bob
Dear Pat, Chris, Colleen and families. My deepest condolences to all the De Anna family. Mario will always be remembered by me as a great friend. Regards from Umbria Italy, Louie.
Prayers and thoughts are with all you!
Prayers and thoughts are with all of you!
We will deeply miss our dear brother, his smile, laughes, and words of advice. The Roland Family has lost our beloved Patriarch. Thank you Mario for the memories of the beautiful times we have spent together. With love, Mick, Karen, Kate (and Matt), and Matt
Praying for God's strength and courage for each of you during this difficult time.
Our prayers and love are with you all. Please know that we will be with you in spirit and prayer as you face these difficult days. May God bring Mario into the fullness of joy and light and bring each of you the strength and consolation you need.
Praying for all of you. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to meet Mario and Patricia at Chris' profession in September. We have another saint in heaven to watch over us and intercede for us.
We wish for all of you; for each hour of your loneliness, we wish you a day of comfort and for each minute of grief, a year of peace and for every tear; a thousand reasons to smile. Mario was a special man whom we all looked up to. We are all blessed to have had him touch our lives. Love, Brian & Diana Lausch
Our deepest sympathy to Walt, Marilou and all of the De Anna family. May the beautiful memories you have shared with Mario live forever in your hearts.
My prayers are with all of you in your grief. What a wonderful man. I'm so happy that we got to meet Mario here in Sparkill.
May you all feel consoled in knowing that Mario now rests peacefully in the Heart of God.
So sorry for your loss! May he rest in peace!
May you all find consolation in many good memories of Mario's life with you!
My sympathy and prayers for your family at this time of loss and sadness. He is at peace and no longer suffering but I know he will be missed very much. prayerfully, pat keating, op
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Mario is still the best boss I have ever had. I was fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time when I started working with all of the Deannas at the Strathroy McDonalds.. It led me into a career in hospitality thanks largely to Mario's teaching. I still have a strong handshake thanks to "The Big Guy"
~ Allen Morgan