Obituary of Antonio Cheli

February 13, 1935 - Salerno, Italy

September 26, 2021 - Airdrie, Alberta

Antonio Cheli of Airdrie, AB, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2021 at the age of 86 years.

Antonio was born in Salerno, Italy on February 13, 1935. He met Giustina DiGiovannantonio 16 years ago when they were visiting their late spouses' resting place and shortly after, moved in together. He was a member of the Labours Union, and worked hard his entire life, taking pride in everything he touched. Antonio accomplished much through his life and was particularly proud of his garden, which was his passion. He will be most remembered for his attention to detail and his lollypop trees. He was an artist and his canvas was his garden. He was a simple man with simple pleasures, and the highlight of his week was when Gabriele would bake him a marble cake, and Rita dropped off homemade Italian cuisine.

The first verse of “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas, describes Antonio’s mindset in his last few weeks.

“Do not go gentle into that good night,

Old age should burn and rave at close of day;     

Rage, rage against the dying of the light."

Besides Giustina, Antonio is survived by his daughter Antonetta, and son Pietro. Antonio was predeceased by his spouse Lucy, and parents Pietro and Antonetta Cheli.

Private Funeral Mass will be held at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish  (1714 – 14th Avenue N.E. Calgary, AB). Graveside Service to follow at Queen's Park Mausoleum. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed on Antonio’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Antonio Cheli, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Airdrie, 300 Towerlane Drive, Airdrie, AB T4B 3L8, Telephone: 403-948-1100.

Antonio's memorial card can be viewed using this link