Obituary of Eugenio Malandra
Eugenio Malandra
After a courageous journey of health challenges, Eugenio Malandra, passed away peacefully on March 10th, 2022, in his 89th year. With the presence of family and the medical team, Eugenio came to rest with faith, closure, and assurance of how deeply he was appreciated and loved throughout his life.
Faithful husband of Flora (nee Pensa) for 59 years, generous father of Donata (Donald Farquhar) and Patricia (Jean-Paul Lucier), proud grandfather of Chris and Natalie (Farquhar) and Nolan, Morgan, and Max (Lucier), Eugenio leaves behind an abundant heritage of core family values, taught by example. Eugenio loved the family into which he married as his own. He was a faithful guardian to his mother-in-law, Lucia Pensa and was most endeared to the late beloved Lina and Paul Santagapita, Enrico, Mary Ellen, and Guido Pensa. Uncle Eugene will be missed by his many nieces and nephews, who were thoughtfully present through the years. Eugenio and Flora cherish the fun times and support of their dear friends and good neighbours.
Eugenio’s joy of being with others was nurtured from the very beginning. Born to his beloved parents Luigi and Donata (Di Renzo) Malandra, February 12, 1933, during the Great Depression, Eugenio was one of seven children: Lillina, Domenico, Armina, Eugenio, Eva, Aurelio, and Maria. He is survived by Eva (Australia), Aurelio (Switzerland) and Maria (Italy). Growing up with humble surroundings in the small, mountainous, village of Casalincontrata, located in the Abruzzo region of Italy, the Malandra family lead a fruitful life as farmers. This is the setting that nurtured Eugenio’s hard work ethic, encouraging his strong physical and mental endurance, ingenuity, and adaptability.
These qualities made Eugenio an essential part of the workforce that literally built-up Canada. Courageously accepting a contract to establish the railroad in the western provinces, a young Eugenio immigrated alone to Canada. This endeavour led to many other adventures. He had the opportunity to work on landmark construction projects in the Toronto and London area. Later, “Gino” became the “go to guy” and maintenance expert at Woolco Department Store for 25 years. Eugenio is truly an established Canadian ancestor.
Eugenio had so many gifts and talents: an avid Scopa card player, a creative handyman, a welcoming friend. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing “Gino” couldn’t help but love him because he was obviously “a good guy”. Eugenio was an inspiration and touched the heart of many by being his true, authentic self. Even in his last, most difficult part of his life, his appreciative, thoughtful nature was evident to the medical staff and endeared him instantly to them. We extend heartfelt appreciation to the excellent support and care given by the Victoria Hospital Ortho Trauma and Palliative team.
Eugenio, your laughter, joy, and generosity were your trademark and will be carried forward in the memory of the many who loved you.
Visitors will be received at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street, on Monday March 14 from 10:00-12:00, followed by a service. Interment will occur after at St. Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Mary Catholic Church would be appreciated.
