September 11, 1940 – October 11, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Agnese Avella on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the age of 86, in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Agnese was born in Comiziano, Italy, on September 11, 1940, to Giacomo and Anna Napolitano. In 1966, Agnese along with her children, Phil and Leena, immigrated to Thunder Bay to reunite with Franco, who had arrived a few months prior.
Agnese dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a warm and welcoming home, this was a devotion that spanned generations as she was a proud nonna who raised her grandchildren, allowing her kids to explore and flourish in their careers. One of the many ways she expressed her love was through food, always taking great pleasure in preparing meals for her family and friends and bringing everyone together around the table. She also found great joy in gardening, nurturing her vegetable plants and had great pride in her bountiful harvests.
Agnese will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Phil and Jack; her daughter, Leena (Gord); and her beloved grandchildren, Robert (Kristyn), Leanne (Jacob), Nicole (Adam), and Frank. She also leaves behind her cherished great-grandchildren, Kyle and Peyton, as well as numerous relatives in Canada and Italy.
Agnese is predeceased by her beloved husband, Franco Avella; beloved granddaughter, Kristyn; sister, Maria; and numerous other relatives who passed before her.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Andrea Barnes and the staff at La Sur Wellness, and Janna Costa and Nurse Owen from VON, and all the doctors and nurses who provided such compassionate care and support to Agnese and to her family. Your kindness, dedication, and support during this time will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.
A funeral mass in honour of Agnese Avella will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19, 2026 in St. Agnes Church, 1019 Brown Street in Thunder Bay, ON, officiated by Father James Panikulam. A public visitation will be held 1 hour prior to service. Interment will follow in Mountainview Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street at James.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
