CESARI, Sergio – Passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2017. Born May 30, 1931, Sergio spent his youth in Pesaro, Italy. He grew up in the tumultuous years at the end of WWII and the subsequent years of recovery during which he learned much about the value of a strong, coherent family and perseverance in the face of difficulty. His clear memories of these times revealed the extent to which he was affected and shaped by them throughout his life. No challenges were too big for Sergio; he often sought them out, and he approached them with resolute strength, courage and determination. As a young man he studied visual arts in Milan before returning to Pesaro to seek work. Despite the familiarity and comfort of home, at 30, Sergio and his wife Gabriella opted for a broader life with greater opportunity. Fluent only in Italian and with little training, he began his career with the Bata Shoe Organization with stops in three African nations before his later postings in Paris and Toronto. He travelled extensively, circumnavigating the globe many times and visiting all but a few countries in the world. After many adventures and accomplishments, and at the peak of his profession, he chose to retire at 60. Sergio thoroughly enjoyed his retirement years, spending time in both Pesaro and Toronto. In Italy he rekindled close friendships and pursued various civic art and restoration projects that affirmed his profound love for his birthplace. He was a gifted multi-media artist and created some of his most beautiful pastel works while there. In Toronto he spent time with his family while immersing himself in the world of computers and mastering photoshop. A severe stroke limited Sergio physically in his latter years, but he never lost his sharp mind and unique sense of humour. He lived life in a big way with a strong, warm personality and a deep, robust voice to match. He was true to his principles, honest, generous and genuinely kind. He touched many people in both his personal and professional lives, and will be missed by family, friends and acquaintances all over the world. Survived by his wife Gabriella, children Michela and Marco, daughter-in-law Susan and grandchildren Luca, Olivia and Isabella. A memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 8th in BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH, 24 Cheritan Avenue (Yonge/Lawrence). If desired and in lieu of flowers, a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities (www.rmhctoronto.ca) would be appreciated