By Rhonda Massad
Kirkland Mayor and Council renamed Dragon Park to Di Gennaro Park this past weekend in honour of Kirkland City Councillor Tony Di Gennaro who died suddenly last year at this time.
“Tony was role model in many respects,” said Mayor Michel Gibson. “He was a model Councillor we looked up and appreciated. He loved council, he loved Kirkland and above he loved to serve his constituents of district 3. He did so with pride and dedication. I can’t think of a better man to honour in this fashion.”
Tears were shed along with laughter at the event last Saturday, August 25 attended by about 50 people. Tony’s wife Helen and his daughter Melissa and her fiance Ryan were surrounded by family, friends and many community members who had worked alongside Tony.
“It is understood that family and friends will always keep Tony in their hearts,” said one of Tony’s dearest friends, Councillor John Morson. “It is incredibly sad that Tony’s life ended so soon and we cannot put into words how much we all still miss him. Even though he may be gone his memory will live on in all of us forever. Tony, rest in peace, my friend.”
Tony was a pillar in this community. He cared. He loved. He gave his heart and soul. He was a father. He was a husband. He was a city councillor for the town of Kirkland. He was a board member of the Lakeshore General Hospital Foundation. He was an active member of the Italian community. He was Sempai to many. He was a friend. This community feels this loss in so many ways. Thank you Tony for all you gave us. I will never forget you.
