It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Papa, and Nonno, Calogero “Charlie” Di Fiore.

Charlie was born on April 13, 1950, in Racalmuto, Italy. He came to Canada in 1965, where he met the love of his life, Rita, at the age of 16. They shared 60 wonderful years together and were married for 56 years, building a beautiful life and raising two children and five cherished grandchildren. Surrounded by his family, Charlie passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026.

He was a proud Papa to Philip (Sina) and Carmelina (Andrell). They will especially miss his long talks about life, shared with the wisdom and heart of a true philosopher.

The pride and joy of Charlie’s life was being a Nonno to his grandchildren — Justin, Charles, Daniel, Jasmine, and Jordan. He treasured every moment with them, whether cheering at sports, celebrating birthdays, holidays or simply enjoying everyday life together.

He was the beloved son of the late Filippo and Carmela Di Fiore. Known lovingly as “Lilo” by his family, Charlie was the brother of Agostino Di Fiore (late Hilda) of California; Angela Mattina (late Salvatore); the late Carmela Alaimo (late Charlie) of England; and the late Alfonso Di Fiore (Concetta).

Charlie was the beloved son-in-law of the late Paolo and Antonietta Iacoviello, and a cherished brother-in-law to many members of the Iacoviello family.

He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

Charlie enjoyed working with his hands, from his early years at Hamilton Electrical Platting, to a long and fulfilling career at Canada Brick, which he began in 1989 and continued for 31 years until his retirement in 2019, building lifelong friendships along the way.

He will be deeply missed by his friends at the club, where countless memories were made around the card table.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and personal support workers at Juravinski Hospital, C3, for their kind and compassionate care during Charlie’s final days.

Visitation will be held at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 947 Rymal Road East, Hamilton, on Thursday, March 5th from 4 p.m. till 8 p.m. A funeral will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 620 Rymal Road East, Hamilton, on Friday, March 6th at 10:30 a.m. Entombment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Canadian Cancer Society.


Marito, Papa, and Nonno, you will forever be in our hearts. 💙