Joe Virgona passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Feb. 5, 2023 at the age of 80.
Loving husband of the late Judy Virgona, to whom he was married to for 56 years. Father of Tracey, Jason and his wife Emma, Dino and his wife Carla, and his late daughter Joey. Cherished grandfather of Nikki, Michael and his wife Julia, Asher, Nola, and Peyton. Proud great-grandfather of Violet and Ella. Brother of Angie Schiavone, brother-in-law of Guy and Cheryll McConnell. Uncle of Billy, Ann Marie, Robert, Chris, and Kathy. Sadly missed by his fur babies Coco, Ginger and Dixie.
At the age of 14, Joe started working in the grocery industry as a stock boy, and dreamed of one day owning his own business. Despite many trials and tribulations, Joe quickly climbed the ranks to store manager at Power Supermarket. Through this experience, Joe acquired all the necessary skills and attributes to give him the courage to branch out on his own, and enter the independent industry, co-founding Red and White and Bonanza Supermarkets. Dedicated to pursuing his dream, his love of food led him to create one of the most beloved grocery stores in Toronto, Fiesta Farms. A place that is now regarded as a pillar in the community, and where his generosity and philanthropy is well renowned in the industry. Joe was a driving force in advocating for locally sustainable and organic food, which helped elevate the industry to the present standard. With his strong work ethic, he successfully passed the torch to his children when he retired several years ago. Fiesta Farms has now become his legacy.
