Passed away peacefully at the FJ Davey Home on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at the age of 93. Beloved husband and best friend of Iolanda for 67 years. Cherished father of Mirella Oatway (Rick), Elida Moreau (Gerrie), John (Laura), Lucio (late Shelley) (Anna Clay), Pat (Sandra) and Lily Heika (Bob). Nonno of Aaron Moreau (Leslie), Chelsea Palaro (Adam Bering), Taylor Cesco (Brittany), Lauren Shaw (Trevor), Ryan Oatway (Lindsay Josling), Megan Rosso (Mike), Marco Cesco, Sophie and Julia Heika. Bisnonno of Owen, Eva, Hayden and Liam. Predeceased by his parents Ernesto and Amalia Cesco. Loved brother of Elena Dal Dan (late Ladino) and Adriano Cesco (Eda). Brother-in-law of the late Antonietta Liut, late Dirce Venturini, Fidalma Santin, late Giovanni Toppan, late Elena Vidotto, late Angelo Toppan, and David Toppan (Mary). Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
Maurizio was born in Chions, Italy on October 10, 1927. As a young man, Dad loved singing and dancing and any kind of celebration. Dad’s presence was often heard before he was seen. His distinctive and friendly voice was easily recognizable. His outgoing and social nature helped him create a lifelong circle of friends.
At the age of 18, he walked through Northern Italy mountain trails following a guide to France to find work. There, he learned to speak French and found employment in several piecework type jobs, but eventually learned how to operate a bulldozer to improve and expand on his opportunities. After spending five years in France, he returned to Italy, but with jobs scarce, he decided to immigrate to Canada for a more promising future. He landed in Montreal and immediately felt at home speaking French. He quickly earned the nickname “Frenchi” by his co-workers and immigrant friends.
Eventually, Dad moved to Sault Ste. Marie where he was hired by Algoma Steel. Confident in the prospects of fulltime employment, Dad sent news back to Italy, asking his wife-to-be to join him in his new country. Iolanda agreed and soon they were married. Family was always important to Dad and children were born every few years or so until they both decided to stop at six.
Dad retired from Algoma Steel after 35 years. His last position was steelmaking heater in the 166” Plate Mill. Dad was rewarded with a full retirement of over 30 years of pension.
Dad had many hobbies and kept busy with fishing, hunting, bowling, bocce, golf, and so much more. Dad’s favorite times were those surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren gathering around a huge table of home cooked meals. Family pictures were a must, even if everyone was sitting in the exact same chair as the previous gathering (film in the camera or not – LOL). Dad loved everyone and was blessed to be loved by everyone.
A private family service will be held. Entombment is at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial donations to Our Lady of the Highways Church, Sault Area Hospital or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). www.northwoodfuneral.com