Obituary of Michelangelo REA

September 17, 1967 – June 20, 2017 It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the passing of Michelangelo Rea of Airdrie, Alberta, on June 20, 2017. In 1996 Michael and Nancy became the proud owners of Sandro’s Restaurant and Pizzeria. The restaurant showcased Michael’s proud Italian heritage where his parents, siblings and extended family all took part in making it so successful. In 2009, after serious renovations from a fire to the building, Michael changed the name to Rea’s Italian Cucina, officially making it the family’s restaurant. For over two decades the Rea’s developed several close relationships with clientele and staff, treating them all like family, which along with an unforgettable menu were the recipe for their success. Aside from his family, Michael loved the Calgary Flames, the Calgary Stampeders, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Michael enjoyed several family trips to Mexico, Florida, New Brunswick and his favorite destination, Las Vegas. Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing and cooking huge meals for his family and friends. He shared all these passions with his children, which has left us with a beautiful legacy. Michael will be remembered as a fun loving spirit, who was quick with a joke, or an insult to brighten up any mood. Michael could be seen putting his fingers in his customers drink to “test the temperature” or embarrass a friend by accusing them of looking at his behind. His generosity and genuine concern for other was second to none. He was admired and highly respected in the Italian and business community. Michael was a loving husband to Nancy (Preston); proud father to Dario, Mikaela, Matteo and Dante; cherished son of Maria Rea as well as being brother to Maria (Gary) Thibault, Anna (Collin) Schafer, Alfredo Rea as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family. He will be deeply missed by his mother in law Kathleen Preston and his extended family from Miramichi, New Brunswick. Michael was also predeceased by his father Franco Rea, uncle Raffaelle Rea, his cousin Gina (Rea) Curti and his father in law, John Preston. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North) on Friday, June 23, 2017 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at ST. PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH (1305 Main Street, Airdrie, AB) on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Michelangelo Rea, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, Telephone: 403-276-2296.