Joe Virgona, or Pumpa, as all of his grandchildren lovingly called him, has sadly passed away, peacefully surrounded by his family, at the age of 80 on February 5, 2023. Loving husband of the late Judy Virgona, to whom he was married to for 56 years. Father of Tracey, Jason and his wife Emma, Dino and his wife Carla, and his late daughter Joey. Cherished grandfather of Nikki, Michael and his wife Julia, Asher, Nola, and Peyton. Proud great-grandfather of Violet and Ella. Brother of Angie Schiavone, brother-in-law of Guy and Cheryll McConnell. Uncle of Billy, Ann Marie, Robert, Chris, and Kathy. Sadly missed by his fur babies Coco, Ginger and Dixie.
Joe was born on September 23, 1942, on the island of Salina, Sicily and immigrated to Canada on June 24, 1950, at the age of 7. As much as he honored his Italian roots, he truly embraced being Canadian. On Canada Day, he opened his home to family and friends for a memorable annual celebration, complete with great food, family, fun, games, and an epic firework extravaganza. His extreme love for animals was also demonstrated with golf cart rides to his family-owned hobby farm next door, complete with rescue horses, ducks, and peacocks.
At the age of 14, Joe started working in the grocery industry as a stock boy, and dreamed of one day owning his own business. Despite many trials and tribulations, Joe quickly climbed the ranks to store manager at Power Supermarket. Through this experience, Joe acquired all the necessary skills and attributes to give him the courage to branch out on his own. He entered the independent industry, co-owning a Red and White Supermarket and co-founding Bonanza Supermarkets. Dedicated to pursuing his dream, his love of food led him to create one of the most beloved grocery stores in Toronto, Fiesta Farms. A place that is now regarded as a pillar in the community, and where his generosity and philanthropy is well renowned in the industry. Joe was a driving force in advocating for locally sustainable and organic food. With his strong work ethic, he successfully passed the torch to his children when he retired several years ago. Fiesta Farms has now become his legacy.
Joe was blessed with beautiful friendships, many of which lasted a lifetime. Many knew Joe as a kind and generous man with a big heart, and although he was a biological father of four, he was a dad to many. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends, but happily reunited with his loving wife Judy, and beautiful daughter Joey.
Visitation for family and friends will be held at the Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213), on Sunday, February 12 from 12pm-4pm and on Monday, February 13 from 1pm-4pm and 6pm to 9pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, 11873 The Gore Road (The Gore Road and Mayfield), Brampton, on Tuesday morning, February 14 at 10am. Interment at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bolton.
Memorial donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House at rmhctoronto.ca or Canadian Wild Life Federation at cwf-fcf.org. Joe’s concern for children in need, and his love for animals was the inspiration for selecting these charities.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Anthony Iaizzo
My heartfelt condolences to the Virgona family.
A business colleague, a mentor and a true friend.
You will be missed Joe by all
RIP
Anthony and Mary
Peter Bozzo
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Virgona Family
We will miss your smile, sense of humour, advise, mentorship and friendship
We love you Uncle Joe and we will miss you !!
Marina and Peter
Maggie Pavao
Tracey, Jason, Dino, Nikki, Michael and family my deepest condolences for the loss of your wonderful father may you find comfort knowing he is at peace now, leaving behind many fond memories and a legacy. Blessings
Paul Paione
My condolences to the Virgona family.
Joe was an incredible friend and a wonderful human being. He will be missed by everyone. Love you Joe RIP
Emma
My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Joe was a kind and generous man and will be remembered as such and missed immensely.
Jack /Sharron LoGiacco
There isn’t anyone I know who didn’t look up to your dad. He was one of the kindest, most genuine people we ever met. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
I met Joe at Busy Bee grocery store and worked under him part time and then we were a business colleague for many years.
Judy and Joe always invited us to their annual Canada day picnic .
You will be dearly missed my great friend.
RIP Joe
Jack and Sharron
Barbara Dipiero
My heartfelt sympathies to you, Dino, Tracey & Jason.
My thoughts & prayers are with your
Families at this difficult time.
May he RIP.
Barbara Dipiero ( Alessandrini)
Naomi Lir
Sending my love and heartfelt condolences to all family and friends of Mr. Virgona.
Sonia
I worked worked at Fiesta for a few years. I will always remember Mr. Virgona as a firm, but kind hearted man who treated us like family. May you rest in peace. Please look out for us down here and know that you are very loved. My condolences to the family.
Sharon Levy
My deepest sympathies to the family. I will remember Joe with great fondness as I recall our many and varied conversations and laughs. Rest In Peace.
Gina Lipton
Such a wonderful tribute to a real legend. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Virgona in 2013. He knew how to launch a brand! I love everything about Fiesta Farms, an incredible legacy. Sincere condolences to the many who will miss him.
Gina Lipton
McLean Meats
VJ Bala & Family
Yes, he was indeed a Dad to many. I miss you Mr. Virgona. I hope you know what you meant to me and my family. Thank you for your love. Thank you for being my angel. I miss you.
Mike Fiorito
Deepest condolences to the family.
Many fond memories of working with Joe throughout the years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Arthur and Helen Pelliccione
Our deepest condolences to the Virgona Family. Joe was a good friend to us all and he will be missed. We are sorry we can not pay our respects in person as we are away. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Vincent Tedesco
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Virgona. May you rest in peace.
Vince Tedesco & Stephen Carroll (Maple Leaf Foods)
LOU DICARLO
We are all saddened to hear of Joe’s passing and extend our condolences to the Virgona family
He touched so many lives in a positive way and will be dearly missed, but not forgotten.
Joe Furfaro
In honour of my second DAD, dear friend and mentor. He generously brought me into his family and included me as one of his own. He has always been there for me. I learned so much from him in the 42 years we worked together and have the greatest respect for him and his vision. I miss him dearly
“but, but boss……”
Randy Whitteker
On behalf of Ontario Natural Food Company (ONFC) and all of our employees past and present who came to know Joe, our deepest condolences to the Virgona family and close colleagues.
Joe was a good business man who always had time for the people side of the business. Through Joe, Fiesta Farms remained independent and became a fixture in the community.
I feel fortunate to have known him.
JOE BORONI
Condolences to the Virgona family , our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great sorrow
May he rest in peace
Joe Boroni & family
Helen Gillett (Thoms)
I worked at fiesta farms for a number of years. I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Virgona . He will be missed by many Tracy, Dino, and Jason. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Gino Vecia
My deepest condolences. Joe was a great man. It was a privilege to know him and work with him. I will deeply miss him
Gino & Louise Vecia
Corrado Nastasi
My deepest condolonces to the Virgona family.Joe you will be missed dearly R.I.P carissimo amico,i will forever miss you,Thank you for all
Santina and Antonio Caranci
Jason and the Virgona family,
It was with great sadness that we learned of Joe’s passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences and we hope that in a small way they help through these trying times. Joe will be missed.
Sincerely, neighbours Tony and Santina Caranci
Riza & David
Our sincere condolences to the family.
Joe was always welcoming and liked to joke around and tell stories to us.
He will be missed. May his menory be of comfort during this difficult time. Rest in peace dear Joe.
Peter Pesce
Our condolences to the entire Virgona family.
Joe, as you know we are away and unable to attend your funeral.
I promise I will think of you often and always with a smile.
So many people will miss you and your generosity.
Vivian and Peter Pesce.
Steven Dennis
Dear , Tracy, Dino and the Virgona family,
I met Joe years ago while calling on Fiesta to sell them some merchandise. At first Joe could be an imposing figure – but once I got to know him – I would be called up to his office where he would kibbutz around with me with tales of the neighbourhood he grew up in . I really felt privileged be allowed in the inner sanctum. I loved his stories.
He will truly be missed .
My sincere condolences
Nancy
Heartfelt Condolences to the Virgona family. He was a great man, an innovator, and will be deeply missed by so many as his legacy and impact to the community continues to touch so many people. So proud to have been able to know him. He was an inspiration and mentor to my mom as well.
Sincerely, Nancy Ferreira
Mary Colantonio
After the tears have dried and the goodbyes have been said, all we have to hold onto are the happy memories that we’ve shared with our loved ones who have passed, this is what keeps them alive in our hearts and in our minds, and they will continue to live on, through us.
My Angel on earth and now in heaven
Thanks for the many years of guidance, lessons and laughter!
Miss you forever
Jennifer
I remember dealing with Mr. Virgona when I was representing a product and he was very fair and nice to deal with. A life well lived. R.I.P
peter neal
Toronto has lost an iconic food retailer and an iconic human being. Over the 35 years that my brother and I have run our biz we’ve worked with hundreds of retail shops and their owners. Joe and his beloved Fiesta Farms stood out amongst so many others. The store was a reflection of the man; a stalwart in the community, humble, genuine and lovingly unique. We counted, and still count FF as one of our best supporters, we are grateful for our relationship and we will miss Joe and the wonders he created.
On behalf of my brother Chris, Theresa Kaufman and our Neal Brothers family we send our condolences and love to all of Joe’s family – (and adopted family Joe F).
carolyn Linton
I am so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. He really was such a fine man and I enjoyed having conversations with him whenever I came to shop . My sincere condolences to all of the family. Carolyn Linton
Maria Vanelli
To our dear Jason and the Virgona family. Our deepest condolences on your great loss. Joe’s been our good friend and neighbour for over 50 years, things just won’t be the same anymore. We were so used to his drive-bys with either the car honking or a full stop just to talk for a while. Or just stopping by to talk about the things going on in our community while drinking a glass of wine or just having an espresso.
With spring around the corner we expected to see each other until late fall, how things have changed.
Joe you will be greatly missed.
Kim Huynh
My sincerest condolences to the Virgona family.
Amie O Connor
My deepest condolences to the entire Virgona family. It was a pleasure to have got to know your Dad.
Sending love and light to you all from Ireland
Angelo Tomassi
Gone but never will i forget you Joe.
I first meet Joe at field gate Red & White store I loved his humor and wheeling and dealing.
Requesting bring in Pasquale the signing chef to do cooking shows in the Bonanza stores, i thought he was crazy but it worked. He had a great sense for business.
Ha and the 20,000 cases of Lancia Pasta for the Bonanza store gone in five months.
Nothing but admiration and great respect to a super person, i will miss you dearly RIP.
My deepest condolences to the whole Virgona family.
Angelo Tomassi
Damian Pelliccione
It breaks my heart to hear about the passing of Uncle Joe. He was one of the most successful entrepreneurs and inspirations of my life. He always made me laugh. He lived his life to the fullest and and did it with the biggest smile. I will never forget the many trips we took to Italy with Nikki, myself and my Dad. This photo was taken on one of those trips around 26x years ago. I miss you Uncle Joe – Rest in peace.
Adam Pesce
Toronto has lost an icon and leader, and we are all worse off for it. Joe’s team carries on his ethics and compassion in the way that Fiesta Farms continues to be run, and I’ll always think of him when I walk through the doors. I’ll miss him giving me the gears, every time I see him and having a laugh. He always brought a smile to my face.
On behalf of the whole team at Reunion Coffee Roasters, our condolences and best wishes go to the Virgona Family and to the Fiesta Farms family as well. May his memory be a blessing for all the years to come.
Best Wishes,
Adam Pesce and everyone at Reunion.
Catherine Cross Blacklock
My deepest condolences to Jason and his family.
When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind.
Deepest sympathy Kay and Craig
Helga Unzog
Our sincere condolences to the entire Virgona Family.
May his memories provide comfort and strength during this difficult time,
as his legacy will live on!
On behalf of SCMC team
Kyle Tobin
I only met Joe once, while giving a proposal for Christmas lights and decorations at his property.
The best part of my job is learning the amazing stories of trials, tribulations and ultimately triumph behind people.
As we walked around, we spoke for about an hour or two and I learned about his life, family, his business, his philosophy and gained some real great bits of wisdom. (and he even showed me his prize car collection.)
He was humble, he was smart, and it was super clear that being a good person led to his enormous success.
I’m glad to have met him.
RIP Mr. Virgona. Respect.
Daniel , Nicole Tamilia
Rest In Peace to a beautiful man who lived a wild life ! Joe you were like a second father to me and inspired me in many ways that will never be forgotten ! you will be missed by many people ! We will all miss your sarcastic remarks and that beautiful smirk of yours. We’re very happy you are reunited with your beautiful wife & daughter. Rest Relax and enjoy your soul lives on ! Love Daniel, Nicole & Baby Kane
Elizabeth Ryerson
Sincere condolences to the Virgona Family and all of Joe’s community.
Betsy and Sean Ryerson
Adrian Nudo
Sending my condolences to the entire Virgona family. It was a privilege to work for Mr. Virgona all those years.
Pj
I remember the first time I met Mr. Virgona .
It was at one of Dino Party’s.
I was sitting in the back yard with my wife and daughter and joe ask if the wine was good or did his son give me the cheap shit.
He called Dino over and and ask for a glass of wine but not the same wine he was giving his guest.
Dino tried to fool him with the same bottle and told him it was another bottle.
Joe looks at me and says my son serving me the cheap shit isn’t he.
I always enjoyed talking to Dino mom and dad at any all functions I’ve attended.
My condolences to the family.
Truly sorry for your loss.
Rip ..
Ruvena
Condolences to both the Virgona and Fiesta Farms family. Joe will be missed! His stories, knowledge, and insights were unparalleled. The confidence, vision for the future, and care that Mr. V instilled in everyone he met will live on forever.
Sending love to you all in this difficult time.
xo
Elden Freeman
The Freeman family feels very sad at the death of Joe.
Joe always was first to help us raise funds for the community whether it be for a food drive at Christmas or Halloween pumpkin sales for st. Albans boys and girls club.
He also trained his children well to be amazing business people and ambassadors for the community .
We did not know about Joes love for animals and his endeavours to assist rescue animals. We only wish we had the chance to chat with joe about our own animal rescue efforts . May Mr. Virgona’s soul be bound effortlessly with the creator .
Sergio Delio
My deepest Condolences, Joe was a mentor and a pioneer. I was proud to have known him through business and as a friend.
Rest in peace Sir.
Carmelo Papia
To an amazing gentleman who always gave great advice and always had the right answers. He always believed in me and treated me as a son.
“Daddy, you’ll be forever missed”
Carmelo Papia
VINCENT PILEGGI
My deepest heartfelt condolences to the Virgona family.
So many fond memories over the past 40+ years of a true and respectful friendship.
Joe was indeed a great inspiration and source of guidance, especially in my early years of my business.
The countless pranks and humour while travelling to and attending the Italian trade shows…Unforgettable!!
I as well as many other friends will miss him dearly.
R.I.P. Joe !!
Vince Pileggi and the Enroute Imports family.
Liisa Younger
My deepest sympathies are with the Virgona family during this difficult time. Joe leaves behind an amazing legacy both to his children and the generations that followed and also to the community in the greater city of Toronto. He built up a grocery and lifestyle hub based on trust and confidence, one that never lost the unique personal touch of a family run business. I have learned more about the other ways he touched the lives of so many in reading through these notes from friends, family and associates. A big life, a full and grand life. While there will be grieving and the terrible sense of loss in the coming days, there will also be a great many stories shared and memories filled with joy and laughter. I hope you keep that joy always Dino, Tracey and Jason.
Rest in Peace Mr. Virgona.
My best wishes to the family, Liisa
Silvia Marques & Johnny Sousa
Mr. Virgona was a boss first, who became a mentor, a friend and father figure later. He called me “Silly” and would say say, “can you do me a favour? go pee for me! I’m too busy!” He was firm, but kind. He was tough but he was the “right kind of tough”. He kept me on my toes, while adoringly bringing me under his wing. He had a big personality, presence, humour and big heart! He helped so many. I worked at Fiesta for 10 years+. My sister worked at Fiesta, both my sister in laws (one whom met her husband working there)… and so the story goes…It was the first job for many of us and what a good start in life he gave us. Later, he would help my husband with his coffee business, providing direction, guidance and support. He wasn’t just successful, he wanted others to succeed too. Every year, he called to invite us to his extravagant annual Canada Day celebration without fail. He was so good and kind, opening his home to all who knew him, offering great food, fun and entertainment, even a ride in his Ferrari (lucky me!) Joe, I will miss you! You were never “too busy” to remember the little girl who walked one day, with no skills or training, but who left with great admiration, a lifelong friend and a forever imprint on her heart. To the entire Virgona family – my deepest condolences. Know that he was loved immensely and will always be remembered. To the Fiesta Family, what a legacy! Be proud, hold the torch high and honour a great man.
Francis Gouthro
Sincere condolences to the Virgona Family. Your father will live on in your memories and the memories of those he touched.
Our thoughts are with you.
Anny-Sandra Hamel
Our heartfelt sympathy to Dino and the Fiesta family
We are very sorry to hear this news. You are in our thought during this difficult time.
The Acti-Sol team
Anny-Sandra, Claudia, Christine
Michael
Dear Tracy… I started working with your father, at Fieldgate “Red & White”, when just 12 years old… What a “Heck of a good Guy”… How loving and humourous… Serious but not so serious… Smart but not pretentious… Successful but still humble… Qualities, today, that are hard to find…
When just 15, while helping him build your home in Bolton, one Sunday night he asked if I knew how to drive ?? I asked why… He said I am too tired to take you home… Yes and… Well how about you take my Corvette and I’ll see you at the store tomorrow… I thought what ?? You don’t mind me taking your car… A “forever” memory for any kid… Ya’ think ??
They don’t make people like your Dad anymore !!
His guidance, warmth, enthusiasm and genuine character, is a loss to all of us…
My fondest of condolences to your entire family… Mike Michaels.
Leandra Roberts
My deepest condolences to Jason, Dino, Tracey and the entire Virgona family. I have many fond memories of spending time at the Virgona house with Brett, the friendly banter between Jason and Joe was hilarious! He was wise, funny and a pleasure to know.
May loving memories of your dad & Pumpa help you during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Joe.
Sincerely,
Leandra (Cross)
Michael Villecco
Tracey and the Virgona Family , please accept my deepest sympathy for the passing of your Dad. He will be missed.
Eddystone Meats - Tony Totera & Family
We wish to express our deepest condolences to the Virgona & Fiesta Farms family for you loss. Rest In Peace Joe!
Tony & Roberta Totera & Family- Eddystone Meats
Phil Lanzarotta
Tracey, Jason, Dino and Family,
My sincere Condolences on the passing of your Father. Joe was an incredible person and I learned much from him. He was an amazing at anything he put his mind to- retail, horticulture, agriculture, food, animals, family and friends. He had such charisma and energy and it was on full display during our annual “Buy and Fly” trips with GTA grocers. Everybody become trusted friends for life. I thoroughly enjoyed our hours long conversation each week, during my visits to the store. He will be missed by many and remembered by all.
May our Lord shine his perpetual light of grace on Joe and his family.
God Bless.
Phil and Joanne Lanzarotta
Sera Magnacca
I have been working for Fiesta Farms for 19 years. Mr. Virgona was a Kind Generous Man who treated me
like family. Joe I will deeply miss you. My Condolences to the Family during this difficult time.
Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
R.I.P JOE
Sincerely, Sera Magnacca
Daniel Melamed
Our condolences to the Virgona family. We only knew Joe as shoppers at Fiesta Farms. I regularly chatted and joked around with Joe. Joe told me a story from his early days working at the Powers grocery store. The managers told him to take day-old pies and put them in carts unbeknownst to the shoppers. The manager said that people were too polite to remove them from their carts when they got to the cash and would pay for them. One day, after filling my grocery cart at Fiesta, I was distracted by something and left my cart for what could have only been for a minute or two. I came back to my cart and found a number of ridiculous items that I had not selected in my cart. I was perplexed. I then noticed Joe bent over laughing and pointing at me. Joe was a wonderful man and we appreciate the legacy he has left for his community and family – our very favourite grocery store.
Joe was a special man and he will be missed. Fiesta Farms. What a legacy to our neighbourhood. Thank you Joe. RIP
Danny
Carlos Da Costa
My sincerest condolences for you at this time. You have my deepest sympathy and unwavering support.
GUY RUSSO
My Dearest Virgona Famiglia & Extended Family,
I am sending you “ALL” Prayers, Light & Loved Filled Hugs over the miles…
Beloved Joe “Pippo” as he was often called, is now in perfection & reunited with his loved ones.
It’s a tradeoff: Our loss here on Earth. Their gain in Heaven!
Joe’s Eternal Spirit is Beaming with a capital “B”!
Here is a photo to share with you all, that will bring a smile to your face.
You see – Joe, his family, and I (We) go way back!
That’s me far right on the shoulders of my beloved father “Tony”.
To the left you can see a young Joe seated next to his sister Maryangela…along with the rest of the family & friends celebrating his Mom’s birthday
Photo taken circa 1955, at the Virgona Markham St home in Toronto
I always recall Joe being so upbeat & enthusiastic.
His positive energy certainly influenced me throughout the years…
Great times. Great memories.
Forever etched in my heart.
I wish I could have seen you again in more recent times.
Came close once – During one visit to Toronto, I stopped by your store with cousins James & Mario Russo…
But you were gone for the day.
Being a human of great Faith, I shall say here…
“A Hui Hou Joe” – “Until We Meet Again”…on the other side.
Keep the Faith & Happiness…I know that’s what Joe wants.
Love to you all…
Guy Russo – Paisano of the “Robert Street” days
Carmen Colasante Gigi Importing
My deepest condolences of the passing of Mr Verona. I will miss him dearly. We go back to the bonanza days and I have learned a lot from him. May he R.I.P.
Paul Wearing
Dear Tracey and all the Virgona family, I am so very sad and sorry for the loss of your Dad. I can hear Joe’s voice on the telephone, “Hey Paisan”!! I am grateful for our 35 year association. Joe was one of a kind !He was an innovator in the food retail industry , one the first operators to promote organic product. Be very proud of his accomplishments as you carry on his legacy. God bless Joe
John Sinopoli
Condolences to the Virgona family . Met Joe during the Power Supermarket Era. Respect
Ken Graham
I still remember shopping at Joe’s store, “Bonanza”, in downtown Bolton. Joe would have made a great politician because everybody liked him. What a great Canadian businessman!
Roberto Cafarella
Cara Mariangela,
ti mando questi miei ricordi di Pippo, vi voglio bene Roberto
Muru’, muru’ Pippo U cchiu ranni e u cchiu bbeddu di cucini.
Mu ricoddu quannu io era picciriddu e iddu vinni a Salina cu so soru Mariangela Bellissima e cu so matri a zia Marietta sempre bedda e avvolgente come ‘nautra mamma.
Mu ricoddu quannu tunnava da Rinedda ca riti da mortadella china china i patieddi e ni’ faciamu manciati ca nna scialaumu.
Mu ricoddu ‘nta fotografia chi a zia Angela tinia ‘nta vitrina “na tuccari, i vidi chi su beddi” mi dicia orgogliosa di niputi du Canada.
Mu ricoddu quannu dopo molti anni tornò cu so soru e a muggeri “miricana” sempre bbeddu iautu e sorridente con i segni del benessere come solu i mericani.
Mu ricoddu quannu poi cominciò a veniri o spissu quasi ogni anno, erano viaggi di affari, Pippo avia fatto fortuna, aveva una catena di Supermarket, grandi Shop, grandi guadagni, vinnia soprattutto prodotti italiani ma s’avia ‘mpignari, travaggiari comu a sempri…non si scurdava a so isola e turnava sempri bbeddu e felice e puttava i so figgi z canusciri l’isola, i parenti.
Mu ricoddu quannu puttau a so figgia Joyce, era bbedda e solare comu na rigina e tutti nnaviumu nnammurato e a iddu ci luciano l’occhi.
Ma ricoddu dda terribile telefonata e ddoppu quannu turnau l’occhi non ci lucianu cchiu comu a prima.
Ma sempre Pippo era u cchiu ranni e u cchiu bbeddu di cucini.
Mario Cafarella
Pippo was a truly special person, a great man who left us all great teachings to imitate, attachment to work, joy in entertainment, affection for family and for important things. I will miss his way of smiling, his cigar in his mouth, and his extravagance. I am close to you and to all his children. Condolences to all.
Allan Brookes
Tracey, Jason and his wife Emma, Dino and his wife Carla,
Joe was a great guy. You can tell from all the condolences that have come in.
He was a ladies man(he would tease them to no end), a great family man, a great friend and an astute business man.
He would reach out to all his friends regularly
He will be missed by myself, my wife Sarah and all the staff at A. A. Waters & Brookes
RIP with your lovely wife
Allan Brookes
Alexander Tavares
My sincerest condolences to the Virgona family. Fiesta Farms was my first job and I will always be grateful for the experiences and connections I made in my time there. His impact on the community will never be forgotten. May he Rest In Peace.
Frans and Vita
Our deepest condolences to the Virgona family. Joe has been a mentor to me over the years learning from his humble beginnings as our family has had the same beginnings and success. Joe will be greatly missed. Frans and Vita Peters (Humber Nurseries 2020)
Paula de Freitas
Dear Vigona Family,
My heart goes out to you at this difficult time. You have my deepest sympathy and I wish you peace, comfort, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. Joe will be missed by so many friends and family.
Martino Doria
My sincere condolences to the Virgona family.
I like many others in the retail industry had the opportunity to meet and work closely with Mr. J. Virgona. He taught me many valuable lessons and became a mentor and friend.
His kindenss and generosity had no limits.
I will truly miss him , and never forget him. RIP Giuseppe
Henry Alford
I am sorry for your loss, my deepest condolences to the Virgona family.
John Kucher
So sad to hear of Joe’s passing.
He was straight shooter.
A hard working, successful, no nonsense guy as well as a gentleman that received great respect and admiration from those that knew him.
I know he’ll be missed dearly by his friends, family and business associates.
Suzanne Young
Our deepest condolences to the Virgona family.
Stuart
I met Joe at the Store where the egg company sold eggs. I always enjoyed my visits to the store and our discussions in his office. A very wise man with great advice and wisdom. I shall miss those day and special times with Joe.
Roz Heintzman
I met Joe through my work at The Stop Community Food Centre. He was an acerbic man with the the biggest heart in the world. He knew the importance of the role he played in the community. When Joe/Fiesta Farms supported The Stop, it was never for show, it was always out of a sense of community.
While Joe always liked to give me a hard time, he always did it with a mischievous smile. He never said no when we asked him to give more.
Joe became a good friend in the end, I’ll miss him but I’ll always shop at Fiesta Farms to honour his legacy- it’s the best shop in town!
Tracey, Dino and the rest of the Fiesta Farms family, I’m sending you my best wishes, and I am so sorry for your loss. Roz Heintzman
Cafarella & Cappadona
Hi Pippo, you will always be in our hearts.
We regret not being able to be present, we have placed a flower in your memory in the Leni cemetery.
All the cousins join the pain of the family and express their deepest condolences
Johnny Sousa
Thoughts and prayers are with the Virgona family. I was blessed to have met and become a friend of such a stand-up gentleman. A respectful family man and business man who never sugarcoated reality-I loved this about him! Joe had a big heart and gave me an opportunity at Fiesta Farms; one of my first clients as a matter of fact. For this, I’m truly grateful! We will miss you Joe! R.I.P.
Renato Guerini
My sincere condolences to the Virgona Family on the passing of their beloved Joe. As Mr. Virgona touched the hearts of many, through his charismatic persona, it was especially, in his love, wisdom and support to those around him he cared for, that you could see the amazing human being he truly was. May Joe rest in eternal peace with God.
Santo DiFranco
With Heartfelt Sympathy to the Virgona Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
edward sorbara
Marisa and i met Joe and Tracy on a memorable trip to Israel 12 years ago . i saw him only a few times since but i always felt i was the poorer for that. he was one of those special people . we wish you the blessings of Heaven with Judy .
Edward and Marisa Sorbara
Martelli Foods Family
With heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathy.
The Martelli Foods Family
Tim Angelone
My deepest condolences to the Virgona and Fiesta Farms families for the loss of this great leader and true gentleman.
Marilyn Martin
What a wonderful legacy Joe has left us.
To the family.We are so very sorry for your loss. You are wonderful people and I have proudly sent newcomers in the hood to your store and garden center for years. As a member of Harbord Village Gardeners and Harbord Village Residents association I know your generosity first hand as we have been asking for and received so many donations over the years. As a retailer and artist I appreciate the beauty of the store and garden center and the pride of creating and running such an impressive operation all these years. The way that you all created such a safe space for us to shop during Covid was greatly appreciated and the shelves were never empty. Thinking of all of you today and sending love to a cherished group of neighbours.❤️❤️❤️
Tony Ferlisi and family
Very sad to hear of Mr. Virgona’s passing. Our condolences to the Virgona family and friends, for the loss of a fine gentleman.
Melissa Brandt-Welzel
Our deepest condolences to the Virgona family for their loss.
The Brandt Family
John Martucci
To the entire Virgona family my deepest condolences. May he Rest In Peace and his memory’s be a blessing.
Mary Fabiano
My deepest condolence to his entire beloved family. He was always welcoming, warm and generous to Anthony and myself. I know he has been happily reunited with Judy and enjoying fireworks in heaven.
The entire Apa family
Sorry for your loss our heart felt condolences to the entire family.
Ernie Palermo, All Source Foods
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Joe Virgona. My deepest condolences to the Virgona family during this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ernie Palermo
All Source Foods
Tony Augello
Sending my thoughts and prayers to to Tracy and the Virgona family ,
As I reflect back, I realize I knew of Joe Virgona before I even met him years later.
During the years working at Red & White I had heard many stories of people I knew who had great memories of working with him. Years later I had the great opportunity of meeting him in person and actually created a lasting working friendship. I know that Joe had made huge impacts on many peoples’ lives, none more than on my good friend Joe Furfaro.
My sincerest condolences to all
Bill Truhlar
My deepest sympathy Joe was always a straight shooter and a gentleman over the many years I was associated with him.
Sally
My heart goes out to the entire Virgona family.
I was just 15 when I started working at Fiesta Farms. Little did I know it would be such a huge chapter in my life.
Mr. Virgona as I always called him, loved his family. He had passion. He had heart. He drove me bonkers sometimes, especially during Panetonne season, but I loved him. He loved me. He wasn’t just an owner of a store, he was like our father or grandfather for some. Teaching us everything he knew. He paid attention to people. He felt people.
There was one point in my life, where I was struggling. Work people didn’t really see it or bring attention to it, because I am like Mr. Virgona where we always want to make people laugh and smile. But he saw through me. He, the owner of a business, told me to take a week off because “I know you need it” were his words. We did not know that week was going to turn into 6 weeks because I fractured my ankle, but he saw through my laughter and smile. He knew I was breaking and he stepped in. I am forever grateful for that man, our memories, and his beautiful store family and biological family he created.
I’ll never forget how he used to talk about his dear Judy, big teddy bear disguised as a tough guy.
Love you Mr. Virgona. I hope your reunion with Judy and your baby girl was absolutely everything you ever dreamed of.
Love you Virgona family. All of you. Hugs.
With lots of love,
your Silly Sally.
Kevin dagnall..(Mel)
After hearing this sad news of joes passing I am sending my sincere condolences to you tracy Dino Jason and all the family,I to will be missing such a giant of a man,I was honoured to have known him.so sorry for your loss.