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April 7 - April 14, 2002 |
Goodbye Johnny
The King of College street is given a final farewell
By Angelo Persichilli
Originally Published: 2002-03-31
This past Monday, March 25, thousands of people attended Johnny Lombardi's funeral to bid a final farewell to the charismatic president and founder of the CHIN radio station who died after a brief illness.
But it wasn't the massive participation that was important at the funeral as much as the diversity of the crowd which ranged from all ages, ethnic origins and social classes.
It was the crowd that Johnny Lombardi loved when he was alive that this past Monday honoured him in death.
"He was a simple man, he lived a simple life," said Lombardi's son, Lenny Lombardi, during his eulogy at the end of the commemoration. Trying his best to contain his emotions, Lenny Lombardi remembered his late father's humanitarian and professional achievements.
"He was a father, a soldier, an entrepreneur, a husband, grandfather, musician. And so many other things. There were other professions in which he excelled, but most of all he succeeded as a father."
It was in his humanitarian achievements that Johnny Lombardi left a mark for many. "In each one of us," Lenny Lombardi said, "he found something good, and that particular thing was amplified. He always responded to an invitation because he knew that his presence was something that would be appreciated; and he was happy to be together with all of you. He was a modest man who lived a simple life."
Johnny Lombardi's contributions were numerous, in terms of social and political aspects. He never had political affiliations, in fact, his funeral was attended by the Ontario Conservative Premier Mike Harris, provincial Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty, former NDP premier Bob Rae and many other federal deputies, such as Minister David Collenette, Maurizio Bevilacqua, MP Joe Volpe, Tony Ianno and Alan Tonks. There was also a large provincial contingent represented by Joe Cordiano, Mario Sergio, Alvin Curling, Gerry Phillips and Mike Colle. As well, there was a large representation from the municipal level, such as Mayor Mel Lastman, Toronto Police Chief Julian Fantino, and many city councillors.
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