Obituary of Luigi Paonessa

Luigi Paonessa

January 2, 1941 - June 10, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Father and Nonno, Luigi Paonessa, who passed away peacefully with his family at his side on June 10th at the age of 84.

Born in Italy, Luigi immigrated to Canada at a young age seeking new opportunities. He first settled in Toronto and later built a life in Welland. Luigi’s life was rooted in hard work, dedication, and most importantly, his love and devotion to his family. A man of few words, a great listener, Luigi had a memory like an elephant. He will be remembered for many things, but his huge heart and cheeky smile will be at the top of the list.

Luigi was happiest spending time with his family, sharing a meal, a glass of wine, playing cards and sharing many stories about his life and memories of Italy.

Luigi is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Grazia (Grace), his daughter Maria and son-in-law Bill Cousineau, and his daughter Luisa and son-in-law Kevin Kucman. A proud Nonno of Daniela Cousineau and her fiance Zachery Hoover, Larisa Cousineau, Livia Kucman and her fiance Timothy Giammarco, and step grandson Kody Kucman and wife Shauni and great granddaughters Liliana and Abigail. 

Luigi had a special place in his heart for us all, especially for his three granddaughters who he cherished most. 

Special thanks to the medical staff at the Welland Hospital, Hotel Dieu Shaver, Hamilton General, and St. Catherine’s Hospital. We are grateful for the care and support they gave Luigi over the past 6 weeks. 

The family invites friends and relatives to the WELLAND FUNERAL HOME, CREMATION AND RECPETION CENTRE, 827 East Main St., Welland, for a visitation on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A chapel service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. and entombment will follow at Pleasantview Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.