It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Francesco Romeo, a devoted husband, proud father, cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, who passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the age of 86 years old.

Francesco was born in Italy, a country whose rich traditions, deep faith and strong family values shaped the man he became. When he moved to Canada, he brought those values with him, building a life grounded in love, hard work and pride in his heritage. He never forgot where he came from. Francesco's Italian roots were at the heart of everything he did — from treasured Sunday lunches with family, to lively games of cards with friends at the bar, to passionately cheering on Italy and Roma during every soccer game. He was the quintessential Italian man in the best sense — strong, loving and yes, sometimes stubborn — but always with a heart full of love.

He shared his life with his beloved wife, Paula Garreffa, his partner through every joy and challenge. Together, they raised a family that was Francesco’s greatest source of pride. He was the proud father of Tony (Antonietta), Mary (Sam), Paolo (Nadia) and Julie (Santo).

Though a man of few words, Francesco's love was felt deeply by those closest to him. He was a constant presence — caring and with a quiet strength. Francesco also had a deep love for life’s celebrations. He was never one to sit on the sidelines when music played — always the first on the dance floor. He loved to dance at any party, lighting up the room with his energy.

He was a loving Nonno to ten grandchildren Anthony (Alexa), Jessica (Mike), Dean, Amanda, Kadyn, Matteo, Niko, Rocco, Mikayla and Gemma and a proud Bisnonno to two great-grandchildren, Aviana and Logan. His love for them was boundless — pure, proud and filled with joy. He will also be greatly missed by his brother, sisters and many relatives in both his native country and in Montreal, which he called home.

Francesco believed in the things that truly matter: the importance of family, the power of a shared meal, the value of keeping your word and the beauty of a life lived simply and sincerely. For him, success was measured not in wealth, but in love, laughter and the memories made along the way. He leaves behind a lasting legacy — of love, resilience and tradition. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His laughter, his stories, and his values will continue to echo in our homes, at our tables and in every moment shared in his memory. Francesco Romeo was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.

May he rest in eternal peace.

The family will receive condolences on May 13, 2025, from 2 to 5 PM and from 7 to 9 PM, also on May 14, 2025, from 8 to 9 a.m. at Urgel Bourgie funeral complex, located at 6700 Beaubien Street E, Montreal, QC H1M 1B2.

A mass will be held on May 14, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Mont-Carmel Church, located at 7645 Rue du Mans, Saint-Léonard, QC H1S 2A1.

The burial will follow at Repos Saint-François d’Assise cemetery, located at 6893 Sherbrooke E, Montreal, QC H1N 1C7.