Caldarone

Emilio Caldarone was born in Ari, Abruzzo (Chieti) in 1945. Carmela Policelli was born in Roseto Valfortore, Puglia (Foggia) in 1950. Both were born into hard-working families from small villages.

Emilio and Carmela were married in 1968 and followed some of their family who had emigrated to England. Having left with only a suitcase each, they took up residence in Dartford, Kent and built a home together.

Upon visiting brother Nicola and sister Rosa in Toronto, Canada, Emilio and Carmela decided it was time to move. Many siblings had emigrated to Toronto, making it a city that not only presented opportunities but also would allow them to enjoy the strong bonds of family that blessed their formative years. Carmela’s father, Nicola Policelli, had also worked in Toronto to send home money for his family. He often spoke fondly of Canada, and in fact had lived not far from where his children would eventually live.

Emilio and Carmela moved to Canada in 1972, soon welcoming two children who were similarly blessed to grow up in a large, loving extended family with traditional Italian values of hard work and togetherness. Emilio and Carmela now have four grandchildren who adore their Nonno and Nonna.

Amongst all the ups and downs, one thing remained constant: their love and dedication to one another and to their family.