November 6, 2022
In loving memory ~
Nonno has gone to be with Nonna.
Lorenzo died on November 6, 2022.
A month and three-quarters short of his one-hundredth birthday. Renzo was the definition of a hard worker. His strength was the stuff of legend. He would take two-hundred-pound bags of concrete on each shoulder and carry them up five flights of stairs. He was in the garden daily up until the past 1 1/2 years and 3 years ago he was still making concrete.
Renzo came to Canada in 1952. Started with the railway and then settled in Kimberley, B.C., working to build the fertilizer plant. On the completion C M& S wanted him to work in the mine. This saw him start his career with Fabro’s. He started at the sawmill and then went to the construction side of the company until his retirement.
Lorenzo was born in Carbona Italy. He went to the Second World War at 17.
He married Dorotea before he left for Canada. She came to Canada after he had been here for a year.
Renzo was renowned for his winemaking and his gardens. He was very active in the Knights of Columbus and always attended mass.
He enjoyed fishing and went on camping trips with the family. He would even go hunting occasionally.
He is survived by his son John (Sandra) Bertoia; daughter Lorraine (Kevin) Bonell, grandchildren Barry (Shannon) Marcus, Kaila Bonell, Giuliana, and Lorenzo Bertoia.
Also survived by his brother Aldechi (Silvana) in Carbona and numerous nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by his wife Dorotea and sisters Delfina and Luigia.
Many thanks to Doctor Peter Loland, Doctor Paul Dickenson. Also, Awesome Sherry.
The staff on 6 North at Royal Inland for their care and compassion.
Lorenzo will be interred with his wife in Kimberley, B.C.
Graveside service June 9, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Kimberley Cemetery reception to follow Bootleg Gap golf Kimberley.
Memorial donations in honour of Lorenzo can be made to Heart & Stroke and BC Cancer.
Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.
Cremation by Drake Cremation & Funeral Service Kamloops, B.C.