Obituary of Antony Joseph Rodriguez

https://youtu.be/WTA5yKBL5eYPlease take a moment to view the video tribute for Mr. Antony Rodriguez It is with sadness and tears we announce the passing our beloved Antony Rodriguez. On September 3, 2020 at the age of 90, Antony passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his children. Antony, or Anto/Papa as many called him, was born in Varapuzha, India on September 18, 1929 to Joseph and Elizabeth and was the youngest of 3 children. As a child he enjoyed many activities but was always curious and fearless. His hobbies as a young adult included cliff diving and light weight boxing which resulted in breaking his nose several times. Later in life Anto made his way to Bombay India where he met his wife to be, Nargis. The two were quick to fall in love and ran away to get married in 1960 because of the disapproval of their families. Before long, they welcomed their first daughter, Della (Dave), then their second daughter, Natalie (Sean) and then along came their son, Trevor (Tomoko). As you can imagine, times were not always easy and with a new family to think about, they decided to immigrate to Canada in 1970. With a wealth of skill and knowledge, Anto still struggled to find employment. His Engineering degree from India was useless in Canada and he soon realized he had to go back to school to validate his credentials. He first found employment at Canada Meat Packers while he went back to school. It took a few years for Anto to finish school and find employment in his field. Anto was proud to land a job as a Mechanical Engineer at Giffels Associates Ltd., where he built a successful career. As his children grew, Anto and Nargis were later blessed with a grandchild, Michael (Mitchell), later came Jennifer (Paul), then Aneae, then Issey. Anto was a proud Papa of 4 beautiful grandbabies! He adored his grandchildren and as he did with his children, Anto would teach them about the importance of education, critical thinking, family and respect. Anto was a kind, loving and generous man, but he was also very practical often stating “you can’t live a Champagne life on a Coca-Cola budget”. Anto loved to play golf! He also appreciated a good smooth wine and a fine cigar. As time passed and he was no longer able to golf, he’d sit back and enjoy watching golf, cricket and tennis on the television. He was quick to see a good play on the links or comment on a beautiful swing. Antony is forever reunited with his loving wife Nargis but will be missed by so many family members, extended family members and friends. “We are sad to see you go, but happy that we had you”. Our family wishes to extend our sincerest thanks to Kim, for her patience, care and kindness given to not just “Papa”, but his entire family. Those who wish to make memorial donations in lieu of flowers may direct them to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Alzheimer's Society in Antony's name.You held our hand When we were small You caught us when we fell, The hero of our childhood And of the latter years as well. Every time we think of you Our hearts just fill with pride, And though we will always miss you, Dad We know you’re by our side. We think of you as living In the hearts of those you touched….. For nothing loved is ever lost Because you are loved so much. In laughter and in sorrow In sunshine and in rain, We know you’re watching over us Until we meet again.