September 17, 1941- September 17, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce that after a short illness, Roberto (Bob) Ravalico, on his 83rd birthday, (Sept 17,2024) passed away at Soldier’s Memorial Hospital in Orillia.
Roberto is survived by his sister Marcella, his daughter Laurie (Mark), son Scott (Robyn), his granddaughters, Starr (Ian), Raina and Marinna and his grandson and kindred spirit River (Abi). He also leaves behind his nieces (Marisa and Julie) and nephew (David). Along with two great-nephews, Adrian and Ryan. He will be missed by his cousins in Italy and New Jersey as well as many friends who will always remember his witty nature and kind and caring heart.
Predeceased by his parents, Marcello and Maria and his sister Louise.
Born Sept 17, 1941, in Pirano, Italy he came to Canada to start a new life, and he was so proud to be a Canadian.
He worked as a cabinet maker followed by a long and successful career with the Ministry of Transportation. Back in the days when the 427 was a great highway as he would say.
He had a passion for fishing and loved nothing more than being on the water, or ice for that matter. When he moved to Washago, he found his home sweet home. Living right on the water where he could enjoy peaceful rides on the Black River. He met so many amazing friends along the way who were more like family.
Some of his fondest memories were family trips to New Jersey, going fishing down the shore with his cousin and best friend, Lucio and morning chats, solving world problems with cousin Ivette.
He was a man of few words but when he did speak it mattered. He had a quick wit right until his last few days. He loved to enjoy a beer and watch a ball game, hockey game, Nascar race or CNN for that matter. Where many have coined the phrase “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, he would say well It’s 5 o’clock in Italy”
Roberto has also been affectionately known as the “stats man”, if you ever needed to know the weather or snowfall amounts over the last few decades he had that information. He had even gone so far as to correct a radio station meteorologist if they were incorrect. But, of all the reports the “fishing report” held the most importance.
He had a calm and caring nature. But if you wanted to get him fired up all you had to do was bring up a pothole you encountered somewhere on your drive and that would get him going.
In lieu of donations or flowers, the family requests a random act of kindness to others to honor Roberto’s memory. One of the kindest people to have blessed many lives, he will be sorely missed.
A gathering to remember Roberto and share some wonderful stories will take place for family and friends, the date will be shared in due time.
Words of condolence may be left for the family at www.peacefultransition.ca