On December 30, 2017 at 2AM, Emilio Rabbah passed away at the York Region Hospital in Richmond Hill after suffering respiratory complications. And so ends the life of a remarkable, humble man who was devoted to his family and who lived constantly giving of himself to those around him. He lived his life to the fullest in humility, generosity and virtuosness. Born in Beit-Jala, Palestine on January 4, 1930, Emilio lived eighty seven wonderful years characterized by many blessings and challenges. He moved to Honduras as a young man where he met Leticia Handal with whom he shared over fifty years of married life. He had four children; Ricardo, Maribel, Jacobo and Jessica. He enjoyed a rather simple life including his favorite pastimes of playing cards with his family and hunting when time permitted. His last years were challenged with the passing of Leticia in 2010 and Maribel in 2013, including seven years of being in the dialysis program. He lived with his sons Jacobo and Ricardo who lovingly accompanied him through these hardships. Jacobo, more than a son, was his nurse and doctor and helped him throughout this process. He is survived by his sons Ricardo, Jacobo and Jessica. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jason and Jennifer Ghawaly, children of Nadim and Maribel, as well as the children of George and Jessica Faraj; George, Fouad, Gina, Grace, Megan, Eric and Emilio.
His greatest legacy is no doubt the quiet life of a hard working man, who lived for his family, striving to give them the best he could building a good home for his children, where love and self-giving reign supreme. Emilio has set the bar real high and following his example is a goal all of us should have. This is the kind of legacy the world needs, and in following his example we are sure the world will be a kinder and better place.
On Thursday January 4, 2018, the visitation will take place at Elgin Mills Cemetery located at 1591 Elgin Mills Rd E, from 4 to 8PM.
His Christian funeral mass will be held on January 5, 2018 at 10AM at St. Mary Immaculate Roman Catholic Church located on 10295 Yonge Street in Richmond Hill. He will be buried at the Elgin Mills Cemetery and a reception will be held afterwards to accompany the family.