DONNELLY, Francis Anthony – passed away peacefully on October 30, 2017 with his loving wife Nicla (nee Anzil) of 47 years holding his hand and by his side. Amazing dad to his daughters Andrea, Colleen, Deborah (Roberto), Darlene (predeceased) and Kathleen. Loving Nonno to Kristian, Maxim, Justin, Alessandra, Blitzen (predeceased), Sabrina, Atticus and Riviera. Sibling to Father Kenny (predeceased), Colleen Egan (Jim, predeceased), Jack predeceased (Helen, predeceased) and uncle to many special nieces and nephews: Ken, Johnny, Cathy (predeceased), Michael (Kim), Jimmy, Cathy (Charles), Maureen (Mike), Morina, Frankie, Karissa, Louie, Cody and Vanessa. He had a special place in his heart for his father-in-law Louis Anzil (predeceased), mother-in-law Elsa (nee Pidutti), their sons Frank (Cathie) and Mark (Lisa) and considered all the Anzils, Piduttis, Polanos and Zulianis his family.
Francis was born in Sudbury, Ontario on October 31, 1943 to John (predeceased) and Kathleen (nee Kenny) (predeceased) and relished special times at Lavigne as well as on the French River with his family. Naturally gifted, he graduated from University of Toronto in law after starting university at age 16. He enjoyed his years practicing law as partner at Weaver Simmons in Sudbury with friends Jim Simmons, Matti Mottonen, Brian Montgomery, Berk Keaney and Boris Fesyk et. al. Distinctively, he argued cases in every level of court including the Supreme Court of Canada. He was dedicated to helping others and raised millions for charities.
He delighted in watching the Masters, Super Bowl and other important sporting events with his dear friends Walter Condon (Terry), Gary Prior (Margaret), Dave McCann (Joan), Billy Morrison (predeceased) (Myrna) and Vince Fox (predeceased) (Gerry).
He was well versed in literature, poetry and Canadian art. Francis had been an avid golfer, enjoyed travelling in particular to Italy and cruising with his wife. He liked wintering in Florida and challenging his sister to crosswords. His listening interests included the music of Johnny Cash, stories from his beloved girls and ‘facetime’ dinners with his grandchildren.
Known for his consideration of and interest in others, Francis’ compassion, patience, generosity, wisdom, humility, selflessness and quick wit were admired. He had a brilliant mind and a heart of gold.
May you bask in the radiance of Heaven in your usual equanimity. You will forever eclipse us all. Sláinte!
Resting at the
Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home
(233 Larch Street, Sudbury)
Friends may call Friday 2-5 and 7-9 P.M.
Funeral Mass at
Christ the King Church, 30 Beech St., Sudbury, November 4th, 2017 at 10 A.M.
Should you wish to make a donation, the family suggests Christ the King Church or Sudbury Food Bank.