Shawn DeLenardo passed away, with his family by his side, on the morning of October 8, 2026.
He will be immensely missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, especially his
family.
He is predeceased by his mother, Francis DeLenardo (Laroque), his father, Joe DeLenardo,
siblings Albert DeLenardo, Corrine Jablonski, Joseph DeLenardo, Tarsilla Devereaux (Joe),
Veronica Axcell, sister-in-law Francis Gamble, nephew Warren Smith, his in-laws Harvey and Yolande Benoit and his beloved son Shawn (Shimmer)
DeLenardo.
Shawn is survived by his wife, Anita DeLenardo (Benoit), his daughters Tracy DeLenardo-Birch
and Jennifer DeLenardo, son-in-law, Jamie Birch, “forever” son-in-law, Mike Verge,
granddaughters Alyssa Birch and Emma Verge and grandsons Caleb Verge (Ava Brownlee) and Trystan Birch (Nayomi Lang.)
He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Alex Jablonski (Helen), sister-in-law, Debbie
DeLenardo, sister-in-law Margaret Smith (Mel), brother-in-law Leo Benoit (Linda), sister-law
Claudette Clarke (Heber), family friends Wanda and Ben Madill, his goddaughter Brandy-Lynn
Saylor, godsons Eric Hammond and Patrick Jablonski, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Shawn had numerous close friends, especially Wayne McGinnis (who was like a son to him);
they had a special connection and bond that brought him great joy.
Shawn was a dedicated family man who always put everyone else’s needs first, never wanting
anything in return. From the time he was a young boy, Shawn spent his life helping, guiding,
teaching and caring for others. He was extremely reliable and everyone depended on him for
his vast knowledge and strong work ethic. Shawn could do just about anything with great skill
and precision. He built and renovated homes, repaired and maintained cars, trucks, and all-
terrain vehicles, fixed appliances and wired homes; he enjoyed electrical work. Shawn was
seldomly stationary, as he loved to “putter”, repairing and improving things around the house,
especially in the yard and his garage.
After working briefly for Ontario Northland Communications, Shawn began his long career with
Northern Telephone in 1967. He had many different roles over the years, including working as a
linesman, an installer, a central office technician and a general manager.
Shawn was born in Kirkland Lake and grew up in Dane; his first home was directly situated
behind the cold spring, where he retrieved water for his family daily. He was raised amongst
the Italian community, spending a lot of time at the boarding houses where his nonna worked
and provided lodging to newly immigrated people from Italy. Shawn’s strong family values
derived from the Italian culture he was immersed in; having meals together, laughing and
telling stories always brought him great joy.
Shawn enjoyed being with nature; it brought him tranquility and happiness. He was an active
fisherman, hunter and trapper. Shawn built an isolated cabin in the woods and was there
whenever he had the opportunity to do so. He also spent a lot of time at the family cottage on
Nettie Lake, taking the kids waterskiing and tubing. There were many family gatherings there;
celebrating birthdays, eating great food, sharing stories and laughter were an integral part of it.
Shawn and Anita were introduced to each other through his sister Keenie (Corrine). It was love
at first sight. Although Shawn was frugal at times, he bought many new pairs of shoes from
Anita when she worked at the shoe store before finally asking her out on a date. They got
married in August of 1969 and remained together ever since. Anita was always by Shawn’s side,
supporting, caring and loving him, especially during his last few months.
Shawn was a devoted father and grandfather. He spent many years in the arenas taking
Shimmer to hocky games and practices, always supporting him in any way that he could.
Whether he was at the Complex watching Tracy at swim team practice or Jennifer on the ski-
hill, he dedicated his life to being an amazing father.
His legacy of leadership, compassion, love and altruism will live on in his children and
grandchildren. He will forever be loved and in our hearts. Shawn was unique and special; he
changed all of our lives for the better.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Doctor Amy Pawson, who went above
and beyond to provide Shawn with amazing care and compassion.
Shawn was a devout Catholic; his faith and church community were an important aspect of his
life and provided him with strength and spirituality.
Donations to the Holy Name of Jesus Parish would be greatly appreciated.
In keeping with Shawn's faith, a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Name Parish on Thursday, October 15 th at 11:00 am,
followed by burial at the Kirkland Lake Cemetery. The family would be delighted to have everyone attend a luncheon and celebration of Shawn’s life at the Legion at 1:00 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to Timiskaming Funeral Cooperative Inc.
Sympathy Messages
Anita, Tracy & Jennifer & all the grandchildren
We will miss his stories and his unique way of playing cards! It was an honor to have him as a member of our family. To all of you, your father & husband left you with many happy memories - we hope you will remember those and share them with his friends and other family members! We remember all the good times Shawn and will always wear a smile when we think of you! Our condolences to the family ❤️
- Leo & Linda Benoit, on
October 10, 2026
Our deepest condolences,to Anita and famly. I love to hear the stories thar Shawn would tell at gatherings .
- Anne and Mike Malette [Larocque], on
October 10, 2026
I had the pleasure of working with Shawn at Northern Tel. Many times when he called he would use his "Tommy Drummond" voice to throw me off. My sincere condolences to Anita and her Family at this sad time. Rest easy Shawn.
- Wendy Sauve, on
October 10, 2026
I met Shawn on the Engineering floor at Northern Telephone. He was always so nice to speak with about issues in KL. My deepest sympathies, may God Bless.
- Molly Ward, on
October 10, 2026
My sincere condolences in the loss of your husband Shawn, and father. Wishing him peace, and love in his journey with God and family members. Be with God.🙏
- Judy Kerr, on
October 11, 2026
Everything about Shawn was said in his wonderful Tribute he was just a all around GREAT Guy who will be missed by all who knew and loved him...so Sorry for the Family and Friends loss.
May my support warm your heart
- Judy (Cale) & Rick Gervais, on
October 11, 2026
Our deepest condolences on your loss,
Matt Watorek and family
- Matt Watorek, on
October 11, 2026
Sincerest condolences to the family who will deeply miss Shawn. He was such a great guy, so friendly and It was obvious how much he adored you Anita. Shawn always seemed to be there helping out with worthy causes. He will be missed by many... his family, friends, neighbours and his faith community.
Tanya
- TANYA JAWORSKY, on
October 11, 2026
To Anita and all the family, my sincere condolences. My prayers are with you at this sad time in the loss of Shawn.
- June Simpson, on
October 11, 2026
Our sincere condolences go out to Anita and family. Keeping you in our prayers. May Shawn rest in the peace of the Lord.
John and Yvette Maille
- John and Yvette Maille , on
October 11, 2026
Thinking of Shawns wonderful family, you will contiue to be in our prayers. Shawn never gave up on life and that is a great tribute to his wonderful family. God bless.
Brian and Mary Culhane
- Brian P. Culhane, on
October 11, 2026
So sorry for your loss, our deepest condolences for you and family on this sad day.
- Andy & Pat Fortin, on
October 11, 2026
So sorry to hear of Shawn's passing. He was a very sweet person and I can see will be greatly missed.
- Lynne Ladouceur Stevenson , on
October 11, 2026
Anita and Family,
So sorry to hear of Shawn's passing. Sending my deepest condolences to you and your family!
- Ellen Lafrance-Doire, on
October 11, 2026
My deepest sympathy to Anita and all Shawn’s family. Our community and church members mourn this sad loss with you.
May he Rest in Heavenly Peace!
- Joan Butt, on
October 11, 2026
Dear DeLenardo Family.
Sending sincere condolences and blessings to you all for you loss.
I fondly remember Mr. DeLenardo’s warm smile and sparkling eyes. He was a family man .
May you find strength in cherishing memories and celebrating Mr. DeLenardo’s life as a family.
Sincerely,
Nola Nikols ( Fortin )
May my support warm your heart
- Nola Nikols ( Fortin ), on
October 11, 2026
So very sorry to hear of your loss Anita!!
- Rachel LaBonte, on
October 11, 2026
Our sincere sympathies on your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
- Claude &Anne Bougie, on
October 11, 2026
Dear Anita and family
What a huge loss for you all and our community and our church family.
Had the most beautiful smiling eyes !
Always helpful to all.
His love for Anita and family was so apparent when he spoke of them!
God Bless you all , I am sure the gates were wide open when he arrived in heaven.
An Irish Blessing
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal;
Love leaves a memory no one can steal
You are in our prayers and thoughts xx
- John and Cathy Wendorf, on
October 11, 2026
I had the pleasure of working with Shawn at Northern Tel. It was mostly over the phone, but it was so easy to build a rapport with him. Shawn was always pleasant, funny and very helpful. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
- Susan McVittie, on
October 11, 2026
Dear Anita & family
It’s saddens us to have lost such a good friend. His laughter and kindness will be missed. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Shawn.
You will be missed by many.
Dan & Marcelle.
May my support warm your heart
- Marcelle Bilton & Daniel Lefebre, on
October 11, 2026
To the family we leave our condolences. Shawn was a dear friend and relative. We shared many hunting and fishing experiences. He will be missed.
- Rick and Shelley Hammond, on
October 11, 2026
My deepest condolences to the Delenardo family. Always looked forward to when Shawn would travel to Timmins as he was affectionately called “ the Italian stallion”. Mainly because of his piercing blue eyes and his humble nature. Shawn was a kind and gentle man. May he be at peace. RIP Shawn. 🙏❤️
- Lisa Torp, on
October 11, 2026
Anita and family
My sincere loss of such a gentleman, a huge loss to all
Shawn & I met in the old K L hospital being born the same day! We always jocked that they got us mixed up in the hospital.
He will be missed for his great attitude and friendly smile.
Rest in peace Shawn!
- Patrick. Kiely, on
October 12, 2026
Mr. Tip you were a great friend and will be truly missed. There is so much I can say about you. It would take me a week to list all the great things you have done and did for your family and friends. Miriam and I will miss you. I know you are having a mint and a glass of brandy in heaven.
Always your friend
Mr. Ring
May my support warm your heart
- John Jablonski , on
October 12, 2026
Jenn and family,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your Dad. He will undoubtedly
Be missed so very much. Please know that you are all in our thoughts at this difficult time.
- Carlo and Sandra Dal Pai, on
October 12, 2026
To the DeLenardo Family please accept my condolences on the loss of a great member pf our community.My prayers are with all of you !
May my support warm your heart
- stan skalecki, on
October 12, 2026
Dear Anita and Families
May the love of your families ,
Friends new and old bring you
Lots of LOVE 💕 and COMFORT
Thinking of you all
past, present ,future ♥️
JESS, STEEVE. LORRAINE,
&. HUGUETTE HÉROUX
REV 21:4
- JESS, STEVE, LORRAINE, HUGUETTE HEROUX, on
October 13, 2026
To everyone
I will miss Shawn incredibly for the humour, smile, always the twinkle in those blue eyes, and compassion. My heart is with everyone because I know all of our hearts and spirits are hurting But Anita and Shawn’s love conquers all. Love from Pat.
- Pat McLean, on
October 14, 2026
Dear Anita and families,
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Keeping you close in thought and prayer during this difficult time.
Our deepest condolences to all.
- Paul and Dolores Lynch, on
October 14, 2026
Anita and family we send our sincere condolences. Shawn was a respected member of our extended family. I remember my time in Dane. I remember the spring and interaction with my cousins including Shawn. It was nice for us to speak with Shawn at Willie Conways after uncle John’s service a few years ago. May God bless you all.
Patricia and Walter Hope-Hukezalie
- Patricia and Walter Hope-Hukezalie, on
October 15, 2026
Anita and all family members, please accept our sincere condolences. You all are in our thoughts and prayers as you journey through this difficult time.. hold on to all your precious memories for comfort.
Love and Prayers
Joe and Cynthia Verge
May my support warm your heart
- Joe and Cynthia Verge, on
October 15, 2026
Anita , Family and friends
My sincere condolences to the entire family. I have known Shawn for many years along with the family members of the Delenardo Families as I grew up across the street from them on Lebel. It was always great to have a little chat when we saw each other. He will be missed by many. May you find consolation knowing Shawn is now in Peace.
- Ines Robazza, on
October 15, 2026
To the Delenardo family and friends: Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Shawn. He was a wonderful man. God seems to pick the best to be with Him sooner. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
- Bea, Sarah, Claire, and Andrew Johnson, on
October 15, 2026
Anita and Family. I am very sorry to hear of your loss of Shawn. He was a very nice man. ♥️
- Lynn Murray Elliott, on
October 15, 2026
