Antonio Qualizza of Grande Prairie, passed away on Thursday, November 23, 2017, at the age of 81 years.

Antonio was born December 10, 1935 to Luigi and Antonia Qualizza, in Stregna, Italy. He spent his boyhood on the family farm and, as a young man, went to the Italian army. After the mandatory 18 months, he went to work in Germany at the Opal car plant for two years.

He received his invitation to Canada in 1962 and arrived in Grande Prairie with 10 dollars in his pocket. He secured a job at the Canfor Plywood plant and stayed until they closed in 1990.

He will be sadly missed by his wife of 46 years Stefania; children: Ester (Sean), Teri, and Roger (Rachel); grandchildren Jonathan and Samantha; brother John (Juanita); and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Luigi and Antonia; brothers Giuseppe and Alberto; and sisters Lidia and Irma.

A Prayer Service will be held on Wednesday, November 29, 2017, at 7:00pm, at Oliver’s Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave.).

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2017, at 11:00am, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Grande Prairie (10404 102 St.).

Memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke of Alberta (Unit 109, 10126 120 Ave., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 8H9).