Robert Édouard Pharès

Peacefully with his family by his side, at Victoria Hospital, on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, in London, Ontario, in his 89th year. Beloved husband and life partner of Santina Lidia Pharès (née Causarano) for over 60 years. Devoted and loving father of Gino (Debra) and Daniela. Adored and cherished nonno (grandfather) of Adam (Catie), Michael (Magda), Robert (Keri), Marc, Paul (Amber), and Jessica (Erick). Dear great-grandfather of Benjamin and of a new baby girl (May 2020). Fondly remembered by Zia Romilde, Zio Joe, Gene, Jenny, by extended family in Montreal, Italy, and Egypt, and by his best friend, Rex. Predeceased by siblings Raimondo, Armando, Rico, and Lisa.

Born in Alexandria, Egypt, to Edouardo and Natalina (née Fugà) Pharès, Robert immigrated to London, Ontario, in 1964. He obtained multiple university degrees, and spoke Italian, French, English, and Arabic. He was a talented French teacher for over 28 years and left behind a teaching legacy within the family. A gifted musician and composer, Robert also long served as the organist for St. Maria Goretti Parish and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He composed hundreds of original pieces of music, and translated and prepared London’s very first Italian Mass. Robert had a love for animals (particularly German Shepherds), Volkswagen Beetles, and classical music. Above all things, he had a love for family and took great pride in being a marito, a papà, and especially a nonno. The family extends a warm thank you to Camilla, his PSW, for her dedication to Papà.

A celebration of life will be held at NORTHVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATION CENTRE, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, in London, on Saturday, February 29th, 2020, at 1 p.m., with visitation commencing two hours prior (11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.). Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Robert are asked to consider the Humane Society London & Middlesex