Ferdinando Scavo

July 6, 1935 - July 29, 2022
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ferdinando Scavo; his passing was in the comfort of his home with his family by his side.
Fernando lost his wife Franca of 60 years in 2020 and will now join her in heaven. Ferdinando is survived by his two children, Angela and Benny (Leah), and four grandchildren; Jacob (Carmen), Cayla (Jean-Michel), Nico (Cristina)and Alanna (Shawn). He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Matteo, Nico, Damien, Luca, Bowen and Jayden. Additionally, he is also survived by his siblings: Peppino, Anna, Pasquale, Tony, Lina, Giacomo, and Natalina.
Ferdinando was born in Cicala Italy on July 6, 1935. He was the eldest of ten children and spent most of his early years helping his father on the farm in support of the family. In his teens, Ferdinando was a bit of a Casanova who would often bring along his own music to local towns to provide the entertainment. His love for music and dance is what attracted Franca, the love of his life. His courtship to Franca was interrupted when he was recruited to serve a few years in the Italian military but in 1960 he decided to immigrate to Canada for a better life and to re-unite with his love. He was married later that year to Franca and the entertainment continued, as he hosted many parties, especially in their home in the Pines which was one of the representations of his accomplishments.
Ferdinando was first employed in Canada as a general labourer and not knowing the English language made it a struggle. Nevertheless, with a lot of hard work and determination he learned the masonry trade and eventually started his own successful business. Ferdinando was a well-known and respected businessman in the community where he developed many lasting relationships and was truly loved by his employees.
With Franca taking care of the home, Ferdinando made work his priority but loved his family with his entire soul, took time for friends and enjoyed the simpler things in life. Even though Canada represented many new customs, keeping the old Italian traditions meant a lot to Ferdinando and he enjoyed taking the time to tutor his friends and family in the art of making sausage and wine.
Ferdinando had a passion for fishing, always the first to go and the last to return, never with less than a fish. He also had a green thumb and loved spending time in the garden or greenhouse. He was proud of his beautiful geraniums, tomatoes, peppers and figs which he always boasted about to his siblings whom he was able to share with before he passed.
Ferdinando's greatest passion and pride however was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved them enormously and spent time with them as often as he could; watching them play sports, cooking them bacon over the campfire, challenging them to a game of scopa, teaching them how to properly throw the bocci ball, giving them advice on gardening and of course, showing them how to fish.
Ferdinando was close to his siblings even though some lived many miles away. They kept constant communication and enjoyed many visits with each other over the years. He enjoyed his time out in Florida with his brother Tony where he held the "Bocci Champion" title for several years running. He was especially close to his sister Lina who resides here in Red Deer and who was a tremendous support. Lina also organized a recent surprise reunion with all the siblings, friends and family that helped celebrate his 87th Birthday!
After his diagnosis with cancer, not only did Ferdinando have the help of his children, but also a few special care givers that became like family to him. His live-in care giver Joy, treated Papa with the utmost care and respect, she truly was a joy to him. Marvi and Arriane (his little chicken as Ferdinando called her) from CBI, brought more than just care giving, they brought laughter and friendship that Ferdinando looked forward to, each and every visit. We would like to thank them for taking such good care of him as well as the wonderful EMS staff and the staff at the Innisfail hospital who all showed such care and compassion not only to Ferdinando but to his family as well.
Ferdinando touched many lives and will be missed beyond measure!! He will remain forever in our hearts.
Viewing and Prayers will be held Friday, August 12, 2022 from 7 - 9p.m. at Eventide Funeral Home, 4820 45 Street, Red Deer.
Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 11a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church 4816 55 Street, Red Deer.
Condolences can be left for the family at www.eventidefuneralchapels.com.

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