Obituary of Pasquale Joseph Galasso

On Thursday Dec. 21^st 2023, the world lost a life force.  Dr. Pasquale “Pat” Galasso died unexpectedly, at home, and we are deeply saddened to share this news.  Pat leaves behind the love of his life, Janet “Jan” Galasso, his wife of 63 years, along with his three children and their families:  Kari (Ken Arnold) and their two children Mackenzie and Jeremy, Linda and her son Jay, and Mike (Kelly Galasso).  Pat is pre-deceased by his parents Costantino and Carolina Galasso and also by his two brothers Anthony and Joseph.  He leaves his nieces and nephews; Cicely, Anton, Chuck, Al, Shandra, and Darin, as well as his great-niece Ava Galasso who shares Pat’s birthday: February 17^th.

Pat was born in 1930 in downtown Toronto.  If you asked him, or even if you didn’t, he would jump at the opportunity to share details of where and how he grew up.  He was born in a small row house at 67 Elm St., very close to the bus terminal.  He claims that he was in the original “B&B” district with a bootlegger on one side and a brothel across the street.  He credits the brothel owner’s German shepherd (that was often let out to chase kids away) with the inspiration for his track and field prowess.  

Pat’s parents instilled in him an extraordinary work ethic and the belief that education was the key to success. Inspired by these fundamental values, Pat was awarded three degrees throughout his academic career: a Bachelor from Queen’s, and a Master and PhD from the University of Michigan. Pat’s dedication and hard work led him to excel beyond the classroom:  in his favourite sport, track and field, he was the two-time Canadian Long Jump Champion. He also had an outstanding career as an administrator in the field of Physical and Health Education and as the founding Dean of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor.  Upon retiring from Windsor, in an effort to continue to provide for his family, Pat became a Financial Advisor with Sun Life and worked in this field for 10 years.  When Pat finally retired in 1996, he and Jan returned to Kingston where they had first met years ago at their alma mater: Queen’s University. 

All of this was possible because of the role Jan played as the most wonderful homemaker and mom three kids could ever ask for.  Pat’s devotion to Jan was unrivaled and, even to his last days, his focus was on Jan’s health and wellbeing.  Pat and Jan enjoyed a vibrant life in Kingston.  They were involved with Queen’s University, the Canuck Club, Edith Rankin United Church, active endeavours through the Seniors Centre, the Liberal Party, ballroom dancing and the Common House in their community.  And all of these things would take a back seat if a family member needed support or if there was a game, concert or recital to attend.  Pat was endlessly proud of his children and his grandchildren and, again, if you asked (or didn’t) he would be very happy to tell you about each of them and their accomplishments.  

Pat will be remembered for many things but one thing in particular will be his incredibly infectious laughter.  His laugh would resonate above all others at any gathering.  He was often laughing at his own jokes but to his credit, he was a very funny man!

Pat has been cremated and, when the time comes, Pat and Jan’s ashes will be mixed in an urn as per their wishes – to be together for always.  

Preliminary plans are being discussed for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 6^th.  In the meantime, if you wish to make a donation in Pat’s name, he would greatly appreciate a contribution to Toronto Sick Kids Hospital or a cause of your choice.

Jan, Kari, Linda and Mike would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all the people who have reached out, dropped off food and shared beautiful messages of condolence.  Your gestures and kind words have meant a great deal to us and have made such a difference as we deal with this incredible loss.