It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charlie, surrounded by his loving family at home, on September 22, 2025 at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Stella for 60 years. Loving father of Michelle Lanza (Peter) and Carmelina Destro (Rick). Cherished Nonno of Nicholas (Michaela), Johnny, Michael, Kristian (Mackenzie), Alyssa. Big Nonno of Gianna. Dear brother of Sam (Carol) and brother-in-law of Maria, Genoeffa, Lina Manta (Giuseppe), Lidia Mattealino (Calogero) Predeceased by his parents Alfonso and Michelina, his mother and father in-law Carmela and Calogero Mule, his brothers Gasparino, Carmelo (Guiseppina), Alfonso (Marianna), John and sisters Marianna Mattina (Paul), Carmelina Mattina(Giuseppe). He will be sadly missed by nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends in Canada and Italy.
1963 marked the year Charlie immigrated to Canada, settling in Hamilton, Ontario, before marrying the love of his life Stella in 1965.He worked tirelessly to provide a loving and full life as the patriarch of a beautiful family. Charlie became a proud Hamiltonian establishing a decorated career with the City of Hamilton, loving all things Tiger-Cats and every opportunity his city afforded him.
Whether it be the cottage, his beautiful garden, or simply hitting the streets of Hamilton on his scooter Charlie had a smile on his face always ready to tell the next story.
A personality replicated by few; Charlie brightened the lives of those he met like the sunflowers he grew in his garden. Anyone that had the pleasure of meeting Charlie was welcomed with the warmest smile of a man defined by strength, dedication, loyalty, with yet the kindest and most affectionate soul.
From being the star of the dance floor, beating you in a game of bocce, or convincing you to play 1 more game of horseshoes, everyone found it so easy to love Charlie, the life of the party. A man who uplifted and included others, no matter the activity or occasion, it was a guarantee that you would be leaving feeling grateful and blessed for the time invested.
Charlie’s spirit will live on through anyone who had the pleasure to share a laugh, smile, conversation, or an espresso with. We will continue to follow in your footsteps and aim higher for you; meet you at the top.
A heartfelt thank you to all of the medical staff at the General Hospital and a special shout out to Dr. Baker. Words of thank you doesn’t begin to express our gratitude. Thank you for taking care of our “miracle man” he will be forever cherished. Visitation at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 947 Rymal Road, Hamilton, on Thursday, September 25 from 2-4 pm & 6-9 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of All Souls Parish, 21 Barton St West, Hamilton, on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 1 pm. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Burlington.