Obituary of Joseph Vincent Avola

Joe Avola passed away peacefully on Sunday September 6th, 2015, at St. Joseph's Hospice, London, ON, in his 82nd year. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary. A gentle and loving father to MaryTheresa (Peter), Joseph and Anthony (Kathie), and forever "Papa" to his grandchildren David, Erin, Daniel and Isabelle. Joe will be deeply missed by all of them, as well by his many nephews, nieces, family members and friends. Predeceased by his sister Jean (2012), and his brothers-in-law Frank DiLeo (1983), Sal Simone (1996), Don Pileggi (2002) and Tom Noon (2007). Born and raised in Toronto by his parents, Jim and Connie Avola, Joe was blessed with 2 brothers, George and Jim, and 4 sisters, Jean, Rita, Rose and Marie; all of whom loved "Joey" with great pride and devotion. Joe's love and affection for his family was always evident through his laughter, jokes, gentleness and presence.Moving to London early on, Joe made his home here, and became a fixture in London's social, business and municipal communities. From his time in the retail and hospitality industries, serving on London's City Council (1985 - 1997), supporting fundraising efforts with the Heart & Stroke Foundation, various local charities and many other events, promoting the Downtown Business Community, and bringing donations of goodies to the Memorial Boys & Girls' Club, the Downtown Mission and the Rotholme Women's & Family Shelter, Joe was always a warm and endearing presence to those around him.The family wish to convey their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and residents of Queen's Village. Over the past three years, Joe became a fixture in their midst, welcoming family daily, bantering and laughing with the staff and residents, telling everyone about going for his daily "jog", and his regular visits to Earl's, where he would sit on the patio and watch London go by. They are also immensely grateful for the care and presence of the team at St. Joseph's Hospice, who supported Joe and his family in his final days. Visitors will be welcomed at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street, London, ON N6B 2N6, on Tuesday September 8, 2015 from 2 -4 and 7- 9 p.m., with prayers at 7:00 p.m. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Parish, 777 Valetta Street, London, ON N6H 2Y9, on Wednesday September 9th, 2015, at 10:00 a.m.Condolences may be made at www.donohuefuneralhome.ca The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph's Hospice of London or a charity of your choice.