A LIFE OF HUMILITY AND HUMOUR

Cletus Castelino passed away in San Diego, United States, on November 29, barely a few months after being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer.

Given the prognosis (the doctors gave him just a few months), he and his wife Angela, both of strong faith, chose to attend a religious retreat in Mexico, hoping for the miracle that modern medicine was unable to deliver.

Sadly, it was not to be. 

The family has now returned to Canada.

Cletus was truly one of a kind. An exemplary community leader and a friend to all. A man who emerged stronger from personal financial challenges in his initial years in Canada when a business venture did not take off, and used his experience to help others in similar difficulties.

He became a debt counsellor and his ethical business practice and his compassion saw him described as “the debt counsellor with a heart” by the countless people he helped.

My husband and I have lost a dear friend, and Desi News has lost one of our staunchest supporters and well-wishers.

He was the life of the Grant’s Desi Achievers Awards Gala since its inception in 2006. As the Master of Ceremonies, he didn’t just read from a prepared speech – he was invested in the process.

He went through every draft I sent him of the profiles of the award recipients and reverted with his comments. 

In July this year, he responded after receiving my draft:

“SIXTY PAGES!?!?! Not sure I signed up for that!!! Thanks all the same, Shagorika. Will certainly look at it and revert if any noteworthy changes or questions emerge from my noggin.” 

Subsequent exchanges would start with “First take” and so one and always, but always, end with God bless.

He also added his own observations and little jokes, personalizing the speech in his inimitable way.

Old friends who met him at the last awards gala just a few months ago, were shocked to learn of his passing. 

“But he was the picture of health,” said one, recalling his energy and presence that evening.

Cletus will be dearly missed.

But as we all gather and share stories of the man we loved and held dear, he will again be with us. In our hearts and never forgotten.

He leaves behind Angela, his wife of 47 years, his daughter Nicole, son-in-law Sean, and his pride and joy, his granddaughter Ava and grandson Noah.

The viewing is on Friday, December 15, from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at Turner and Porter Funeral Home, 2180 Hurontario Street in Mississauga.

The funeral is on Saturday, December 16, at 11:30 am, at St Catherine of Siena Church, 2340 Hurontario Street in Mississauga.

Rest in peace, dear friend.

(By Shagorika Easwar)