Loreto Panacci

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, nonno and bisnonno, Loreto Panacci.

Loreto was born on April 21, 1930, in the town of L’Aquila, Frosinone, Italy. Loving husband to the late Vincenza, his partner in life for 71 beautiful years. Cherished father to Vincenzo (Franca) Panacci, Maria (Tony) Galea, and Enza (the late Joe) Severino. Adored nonno to Loreto (Ana), Vince (Brigitte), Danny, Ashley (Matthew), Lauren (Daniel), and Anthony (Paige). Loving bisnonno to Chloe and Alessia, Maia and Elio, and Angela and Benjamin. Son of the late Giuseppe Panacci and Vincenza Iafrate. Beloved brother to the late Francesco (Maria), Rosa (the late Rocco), and Pasqualina (the late Pasquale). He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

As a young boy, Loreto worked the fields alongside his family before proudly serving in the Italian military. Guided by courage and determination, he eventually made his way to Canada to build a new life.

Loreto and Vincenza’s love story began in a small schoolhouse in Frosinone. They married on May 3, 1951, and together built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. In Canada, they raised their three children and created a warm, welcoming home where family gathered often — to share meals, laughter, and love.

A cement finisher by trade and a craftsman by nature, Loreto worked for many years in construction. His skill and artistry were visible in every home he touched — poured concrete, finished basements, handcrafted cabinetry, stonework, and tile. He was purposeful and meticulous, with a work ethic that inspired everyone who knew him. But beyond his craftsmanship, Loreto’s greatest gift was the way he gave of himself. Whether fixing something, sharing advice, or offering a helping hand, he did it all with quiet generosity and love. He knew how to make something last and nothing was ever wasted.

Gardening was Loreto’s pride and joy. Each summer, he nurtured his garden into abundance — rows of green beans, zucchini as long as your arm, and tomatoes bursting with flavour. He could often be found under his pergola, tending to his flowers or admiring the trees he had carefully grafted. His magnolia tree, standing proudly in front of his Maryhill Drive home, remains a living symbol of his devotion and care.

In his later years, Loreto enjoyed quiet afternoons in his sunroom, reading the newspaper or sitting on his veranda reflecting on just about everything. He was well known by old and new neighbours alike. He often reminisced about his youth — mischievous adventures with his siblings, memories of his beloved parents, and banter with Vincenza. His sharp wit and humour brought joy to all who had the privilege of sharing in it. We will never forget all his special phrases and sayings.

As a devoted nonno and bisnonno, Loreto’s greatest happiness came from time spent with his family. He delighted in their visits, often slipping the little ones money for ice cream or telling them stories about the birds and squirrels that visited his yard and ate his grapes. His love for them was immeasurable — and theirs for him, equally so.

A lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Loreto watched his team faithfully through both triumphs and heartbreaks. Dave Keon, Darryl Sittler, Tie Domi (whom he affectionately called “Dummy”), and Mats Sundin were among his favourites.

For more than 30 years, Loreto attended mass every Sunday at St. Andrew Catholic Church. His faith was steadfast, providing him with strength, comfort, and peace.

Loreto was our patriarch — our protector, teacher, and example of what it means to live with love, humility, and grace. His 95 years of wisdom guided us, his humour uplifted us, and his heart bound us together. We are endlessly grateful for the time we were blessed to share with him and the legacy of love he leaves behind.

May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his beloved Vincenza.

If desired memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Click HERE to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society

Click HERE to donate to the Heart & Stroke Foundation