CASTRENZE (CHRIS) BARCELLONA

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CASTRENZE (CHRIS) BARCELLONA

February 15, 1941 – January 7, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Castrenze "Chris" Barcellona, at the age of 82, on Sunday, January 7th, 2024, at Fairview Personal Care Home.



Born on February 15, 1941, in Alia, Palermo, Sicily, Chris leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and a deep connection to his Italian roots.



Chris moved to Germany in 1960 and on January 6, 1961, Chris met the love of his life, Vanda, in Morcone, Italy. Their love endured as Chris worked construction in Germany for three more years, writing letters and cherishing the few times they could be together. In August 1964, Chris became the first of his family to immigrate to Canada, a journey that marked the beginning of a life filled with determination, resilience, and love.



With just $10 in his pocket, Chris started working construction in Winnipeg, later moving to Brandon to become a skilled bricklayer. On November 28, 1965, Chris and Vanda were married by proxy, and on June 19, 1966, Vanda arrived in Brandon, where they began building a life together. Despite starting with little, Chris' strong work ethic and determination led him to complete a four-year bricklaying apprenticeship in 1968.



Chris was not only a craftsman, but a versatile individual excelling as a mason, carpenter, and businessman. His commitment to preserving his Italian/Sicilian culture was evident in his efforts to teach his four children the language and uphold customs and traditions. In 1966, he became a proud member of the Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers' International Union of America.



Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chris was a vibrant member of the community. He was part of the Italian bowling team, sponsored by his business “Barcellona Masonry”, and he showcased his musical talents in a band at the legion. Chris enjoyed making wine and homemade sausages, ensuring that his home was always filled with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.



Chris' love for travel included many family trips to Italy and winters in Acapulco, Mexico, where he and Vanda formed lifelong friendships. A great storyteller and the life of the party, Chris shared his joy for life with everyone around him.



A devoted family man, Chris' greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He worked tirelessly to provide a better life for his family, instilling in them the values of hard work, love, and a strong connection to their family heritage.



Chris is survived by his loving wife Vanda, children Salvatore, Daniel (Leanne), Adelina (Dale), Castrenze Jr (Deborah), and their families, including grandchildren Michelina and Cas (Salvatore); Noah and Tessa (Daniel); Stéphane and Amélie (Adelina); and Alexia and Antonino (Castrenze Jr). He will be fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law Wendy Barcellona; Maria-Pia (Pasquale) Buonfiglio; Rita (Rosario) DeSantis; Carmelina (Emmanuele) Scolarici; and Maridina Di Mella and brothers-in-law Calogero Zimbardo and Gaetano Zimbardo, and their families, as well as nieces, nephews, and their families in both Canada and Italy.



Chris was predeceased by his parents, Adelina Maria and Salvatore Barcellona, brothers Giuseppe (Maddelena) Barcellona and Vincenzo Barcellona, and sisters Maria Antonia Zimbardo, Gaetana Zimbardo, Anna (Giuseppe) Birzilleri, Rosalia (Salvatore) Gibiino, and brothers-in-law, Mario Di Mella, Michele Di Mella, Domenico (Melina) Di Mella, and sisters-in-law Giovanina (Raffaele) Parente, Ada Di Mella, and parents-in-law Giuseppe and Francesca Di Mella.



Chris fell ill with dementia, and for the last eight years, he resided at Fairview Home. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the fifth floor staff at Fairview Home for their compassionate care.



A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church in Brandon, MB, with Reverend Father John Okosun as the celebrant. Viewing will precede the service at 12:15 p.m., with interment following at the Brandon Cemetery. A reception will be held at the Victoria Inn, Grand Salon, 3550 Victoria Avenue, Brandon.



In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Chris can be made to the Alzheimer's Society, 457 9th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 1K2



Chris Barcellona's legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of those fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Condolences: www.memorieschapel.com

CASTRENZE (CHRIS) BARCELLONA

February 15, 1941 - January 7, 2024

Castrenze “Chris” Barcellona passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at Fairview Home.



Chris will be lovingly remembered by his wife Vanda, son Salvatore (Michelina, Cas), son Daniel (wife Leanne, Noah, Tessa), daughter Adelina (husband Dale Normandeau, Stéphane, Amélie), and son Castrenze (wife Deborah, Alexia, Antonino).



The Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at St. Augustines Roman Catholic Church, 327 4th Street, Brandon, MB at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Father John Okosun, celebrant. Viewing will take place prior to the service beginning at 12:15 p.m. Interment will be held at Brandon Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Victoria Inn Grand Salon, 3550 Victoria Avenue, Brandon.



Complete obituary notice will follow.

Condolences: www.memorieschapel.com

CASTRENZE (CHRIS) BARCELLONA

February 15, 1941 – January 7, 2024

Castrenze “Chris” Barcellona passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at Fairview Home.



Chris will be lovingly remembered by his wife Vanda, son Salvatore (Michelina, Cas), son Daniel (wife Leanne, Noah, Tessa), daughter Adelina (husband Dale Normandeau, Stéphane, Amélie), and son Castrenze (wife Deborah, Alexia, Antonino).



The Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at St. Augustines Roman Catholic Church, 327 4th Street, Brandon, MB at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Father John Okosun, celebrant. Viewing will take place prior to the service beginning at 12:15 p.m. Interment will be held at Brandon Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Victoria Inn, 3550 Victoria Avenue, Brandon.



Complete obituary notice will follow.

Condolences: www.memorieschapel.com

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 10, 2024, Jan 10, 2024, Jan 11, 2024, Jan 13, 2024