Obituary of Len Zahra
Emmanuel “Len” Francis Zahra, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, in St. Catharines, ON.
Born in Zejtun Malta on May 17, 1946, to Joseph and Antonia Zahra (née Bonicci), Len was the second youngest of five children. He grew up alongside his siblings Joe (Miriam), Carmen (Gene), and Charles, and his late sister Mariella, who sadly passed away at an early age.
In search of new opportunities, Len immigrated to Canada in 1964, where fate had a special moment in store. On the flight over, he met the love of his life, Doris (née Bonello) also immigrating from Malta to Canada. The two quickly became inseparable, marrying and settling in St. Catharines, where Len found work as a laborer at General Motors. It was at General Motors that Len forged lifelong friendships, including his dear friend Stan, whom he met there. Their bond remained strong throughout the years, and Stan remained a close friend to the end.
Len and Doris were blessed with three children who were the center of his world and who will miss him dearly: Brian (Kerry), Paul (Deanna) and Jennifer. Len enjoyed taking the family on summer trips to Florida, where they spent their days soaking up the sun and making lasting memories.
When he was not at work, Len poured his energy into his home, undertaking renovation projects and even building his first house with the help of family and friends. His talents were not limited to his own space—Len was always ready to lend a hand with home projects for anyone in need.
A quiet and unassuming man, Len found joy in the simple things—spending time with his loved ones, sharing a round of golf in his younger years, or enjoying a good film or TV show. His warmth, kindness, and generosity will also be missed by his grandchildren Konnor, Cameron, Raiven, Matthew, and Connor, as well as many relatives and friends who knew him. Len's legacy is one of hard work, love, and selfless dedication to family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Thank you to all friends and family that visited or sent their best to Len during his illness, your support meant the world to Len and his family.
Lastly, many thanks to Dr. Rosa and staff at the Henley House who cared for Len during his 6-month stay.
In keeping with Len’s wishes, funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. The family welcomes guests for a time of gathering on the evening of Wednesday, December 18 2024 from 6:00 – 8:00pm.