Egidio “Gimmy” Di Santo, at the golden age of 88, passed away peacefully in hospital on December 30, 2025, with his children John and Lisa by his side.

Born in San Lucido, Cosenza, Italy, to Giuseppe and Raffaela Di Santo, Egidio grew up on the family farm, where he discovered his lifelong passion for planting and growing fruits and vegetables.

As a young man, he ventured to England to deepen his love for farming—working the land, caring for animals, and taking on various jobs to build a life of hard work and dedication.

In August 1959, Egidio traveled to Canada, landing in Quebec before joining his brother in Toronto. What began as a visit soon became a new chapter, as he decided to make Canada his home.

It was in Ontario that Egidio met the love of his life, Lidia, and they married in 1964. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories.

Egidio was a wise and hardworking man—an entrepreneur who successfully ran his own business. He was also a natural salesman, sharing his passion for plants while selling them during his summer garage sales.

His gardens were his pride and joy, producing the best tomatoes and figs, and he delighted in sharing their bounty. A gifted musician, he played the harmonica, accordion, and piano with ease and loved playing when his family was together. Above all, Egidio loved his family deeply and treasured every moment spent with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his children, John and Lisa (Leonard), and was predeceased by his devoted wife, Lidia (2018), and his beloved son, Antonio (Joy) (2023). Their memory will forever live in our hearts.
He is also survived by his grandchildren Julene (Ben), Luke (Michelle), Jacob, Gemma, and Leonardo, and his great-grandchildren Melody and Finn.

Egidio will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family. His legacy lives on in the gardens he nurtured and the hearts of those who loved him.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Egidio’s life at Turner & Porter – Neweduk Chapel in Mississauga. Funeral service will be held at Merciful Redeemer Parish at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Entombment to follow at Assumption Mausoleum.