It is with deepest sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our father, Umberto “Bert” DeGrazia, on January 8, 2025. Born on April 25, 1947, in Italy, Bert immigrated to Canada with his parents and siblings in May 1956, settling in Toronto. In 1968, he married Josephine, and together they had two beautiful children, Lucky (Trish) and Maggie (Gabe). Bert was a devoted grandfather to Joshua, Nicole, Matthew, and Noah, who he was so proud of and were always a big part of his life.
Bert came from a large and loving family. He was predeceased by his mother, Margherita; father, Fortunato and sister, Maria. He is survived by his sisters, Elda (Mario) and Silvanna (Sylvio); brothers, Frank (Diane, predeceased), Attilio (Cathy, predeceased), and Aldo (Donna). Bert also cherished his many nieces and nephews.
As a father to Lucky and Maggie he was always patient, kind, supportive and quick to offer help and advice. He attended every sporting event for Lucky as well as supported his business later in life. Maggie was daddy’s little girl. He spoiled her with love and everything she could ever ask for. He supported her in all her life’s endeavours and challenges.
A dedicated and hardworking individual, Bert spent 32 years at Nortel, where he left lasting impressions on his peers. During this time he met his partner Laurine (predeceased), step-daughters Stacey and Tina, and grandchildren Blaine, Brayden, Tristan and Autumn. After retirement, he moved to Sauble Beach with his partner, Laurine, to enjoy his passions. An avid golfer, he spent countless hours on the golf course and eventually worked at the Sauble Golf and Country Club, where he formed close friendships and became an integral part of the community. He considered the clubs owner Evan and his family as his second family and loved them all. He and Evan spent countless hours not only working and playing golf but enjoying the road trips to Florida golfing at every stop they could find.
Bert was known for his friendly nature and willingness to help everyone. When not on the golf course, he enjoyed watching sports at home, playing pool, visiting with family and friends, and spending time with his dogs.
Bert will be remembered for his warm smile, love of family and unwavering work ethic. He was a kind and generous soul who left a mark on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Bert’s life will be held at the Sauble Golf and Country Club on Sunday January 12th at 1:00 pm.
In addition, on Wednesday January 15th at Ward Funeral home in Woodbridge, 4671 Highway #7, from 4 PM to 8 PM.
Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas C. Whitcroft Funeral Home & Chapel, Sauble Beach (519) 422-0041. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.
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Frank Hutter says
January 11, 2025 at 4:56 pmBert was a very friendly and helpful person who always had a smile and good words to say. My favorite remembrances were his kindness to animals which I would trap and he would set free and tell me with a mischievious grin that he had to do it!
George and Mary Kitchen says
January 11, 2025 at 9:11 pmWe were so shocked to hear of Bert’s passing. My husband George worked at Sauble Golf Course with Bert and became instant friends. My husband spent time with him last Sunday as he graciously was filling in at Wiarton Legion Branch 208 Pool League. Bert was such a kind gentle soul who always had a hello and smile to greet you. We will miss you Bert and send our love and condolences to his family and many friends at such a difficult time. He was very much admired for the person he was.
Sandra Shrieve-Mahoney says
January 12, 2025 at 11:48 amI send my sincere condolences to the Family and the Many Friends that Bert had. He was one in a million and my heart goes out to you all. Bert, my Brother In Law and My Friend, I shall miss you at the Golf Course and the dinners with you and Blue at our homes. Your special seasoned steaks were THE BEST and we always had lots to talk about and lots of laughs, new and of memories of our times with Reenie and Bear. Your trip down to my ondo with Evan and the fun you guys had on the way, as well as the fun video from The Villages, will always be part of the memories that make me smile. You were always a class act and I appreciate your friendship and will always cherish it. With Love, Sandi
Bill Jamieson says
January 13, 2025 at 1:25 pmPlease know I was so very sad to hear the news of Bert’s passing. He was indeed a very special person….I could tell the first time I met him at the course. He will be truly be sorely missed by our Wednesday morning golf/KHL hockey guys! He was the best!
Bill Jamieson
Jim Ecker-Vallesi Cup says
January 14, 2025 at 9:38 pmPlayers of the Vallesi Cup golf tournament held annually at Sauble Golf would like to express our condolences to Bert’s family and his co-workers at the golf course. Bert will be missed by all.
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