Giovanni passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on February 12, 2019 at age 89.

 

Giovanni is survived by his son Gino (Claudia) and his beloved granddaughters, Diana and Carolina. He is also survived by his family in Italy, Paolo and Maria, Roberto, Alfredo and Guerrino and many cousins and dear friends. He was predeceased by his beautiful wife Carole.

 

Born in Erto, Pordenone in the mountains of Northern Italy, he grew up simply. Raised by his grandparents, he learned independence early. As a teenager he worked as a lumberjack and served as an Alpine Trooper in the Italian army. He came to Canada in 1955 and after various jobs became a salesman at Hanford Drewitt. His sparkling blue eyes and dashing style made him a popular fellow. He eventually purchased the business, moving it to Broadway in the 80’s. He worked hard and grew it into Winnipeg’s premier men’s clothiers, retiring after 40 prosperous years.

 

Giovanni and Carole Woodward married in 1967. They were a beautiful couple, always impeccably dressed and travelling in style in “The Jag.” Happily married for 42 years they enjoyed travel, gin rummy and, of course, the odd Martini. John loved to golf and spent 50 years at St. Charles Country Club. Putting was his strength and he will be ruefully remembered for the “cash register”, his Ping putter. Carole grew up going to Victoria Beach every summer as a kid and convinced her husband to purchase their first cabin there in the late 70’s. They would enjoy VB together for the next 40 years, raising their family and hosting countless dinner parties, scavenger hunts, Bocce tournaments and music nights. In his later years he loved nothing more than spending time with his granddaughters and playing guitar with his son at the beach. He also cherished his lunches at Rae and Jerry’s with his friend Vaughn.

 

Giovanni will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and successful businessman. But most of all he was a Gentleman and a kind soul. We miss him immensely. Giovanni loved the Victoria Beach community deeply. Please consider a donation to the Lake Winnipeg Foundation. www.lakewinnipegfoundation.org/donate.

 

Friends and relatives are invited to share in photos, stories, and condolences for the family by visiting his memorial page at IntegrityDeathCare.com.

 

Cremation has taken place and at his request, no service will be held.