Antonina Alfano

Mother, Nonna, Sister, Friend

Born: 1935-02-07
Died: 2025-12-05 in Hamilton, Ontario
Interred: Gate of Heaven, Burlington

Antonina began her journey to Hamilton from Racalmuto, Sicily, arm-in-arm with her sister Vincenza at age 18, aboard the Conte Biancamano in June 1953. She worked in the cotton mills of downtown Hamilton making lifelong friends. She married Francesco Alfano in February 1957 and proudly welcome her three children Lina (Rob), Charlie (Belinda) and Franca (Tony). She began a long career at the Hamilton Farmer’s Market as a cheese vendor for 25 years. By 1975 she demonstrated her intense determination and perseverance when she was widowed at the age of 40. As a single mother she dedicated herself to providing a bright future for her young children, supporting their diverse paths in life. Eventually she began to play a vital role in the lives of her grandchildren: Mara, River and Isabella.
Despite the obstacles of intense mobility issues and chronic pain she maintained a friendly rivalry (which sometimes stoked a fierce competitive spirit) with her friends, sisters and neighbours in weekly card games. Her passion for music, food and family endured until the end! She is missed powerfully.