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Pirillo name: Pirillo LANE

Nominated by: Sylvia Pirillo, daughter of Mr. and Mrs Pirillo

Suggested Location: City Lane Number: #502
Described Location: The lane runs north-south from Dupont between Clinton St. and Manning Ave.

Looking South from Dupont Looking South mid-lane
Rationale and References:

An application was made by Sylvia Pirillo, to name the lane east of Clinton Street, extending south from Dupont Street as "Pirillo Lane". The applicant provided the following rationale:

"My family has lived at 908 Manning Avenue since 1959. Naming the laneway would honour the memory of my parents..."

"My father originally arrived on his own in Canada in 1950 via the ocean liner Constitution in search of a better life for his family. He worked in Montreal and Niagara Falls for General Electric, namely building the hydroelectric generating station.

He returned to Italy in 1955 to prepare his wife and three children for the move to Canada.

In 1957, he returned to Toronto where he began working at the TTC. In 1959, after working and saving enough money he bought the family home on Manning and his family arrived during the same year. Two more children were born at this home during the 1960s.

Our home was always warm and welcoming to the neighbours. Our door was always open to neighbours and friends. Many would often visit or drop in unannounced for coffee or just to talk and spend time together. My parents were very generous and hospitable to all in the neighbourhood. Our family often organized parties for special occasions which were attended by many of the neighbours. Our family was well known for helping to fix or repair the homes and vehicles of neighbours.

My parents sponsored 2 families from Italy in order to help them emigrate to Canada. One family in the 1960s and one in the 1970s. Both families resided at 908 Manning until they were financially stable enough to move into their own homes. My dad's generosity and compassion continued until his passing in 1987.

My mom continued her spirit of giving and helping as well. Later in life, when she needed nanny care she effectively sponsored 5 nannies from the Philippines. They also resided at the family home. This was beneficial in helping them gain stability and independence in Canada.

My sister owned 906 Manning Avenue during the 1970s. She again demonstrated a similar compassion by sponsoring a Vietnamese family within her home. The children went on to become dentists and doctors.

My families' story displays what Canada stands for. A place where a newcomer, an immigrant can make positive difference in his own life his family's life while contributing to the wellbeing of others in the neighbourhood. It is this passion that continues in my family today and it will hopefully transfer into the naming on the laneway in the rear of 908 Manning Avenue."

Consent was provided by Sylvia Pirillo, daughter of Mr. and Mrs Pirillo.