Zuccala, Dominic (Mick)

Date listed: 30/10/2018

Zuccala, Dominic (Mick)

11. 6. 1935 – 26. 10. 2018

Today we have lost the patriarch of our family.  My thoughts go back to the last years of your illness and how sad I felt that, try as I may, I was unable to help you get better and alleviate your pain.  Then one day with tears streaming down my face I thought back to the good years; the adventures we shared together.  The birth of our four children, the delight of seeing our nine grandchildren arrive and who are an enduring legacy of our love.  I then realised how blessed we have been to be together all these 60 years.  Thank you, Lord, for the gifts you have bestowed upon our family, where we know we belong and the gift of unconditional love will always remain.  May God watch over you now Dominic, at peace, after 9 years, released from the shackles of Parkinson’s and free to roam wherever you please.  God called you and you answered his call.  Until we meet and dance a waltz once again.  All my love, Maria.

Dad, you were a loving father to us and so welcoming to Bernadette.  I couldn’t ask for a better father and I am sorry that you are gone, but you will never be forgotten.

All our love, Joe & Bernadette.

Dad, you were a loving father and grandfather, and a friend to many. We will always be grateful for everything that you did for us and we will cherish the wonderful memories that we have of family holidays, time at Dromana and simply being together as a family. You were the perfect role model for all of us and we hope that we can carry on your legacy through our actions and encounters each day. We are comforted to know that your suffering has ended and that you are now reunited with your parents in eternal life. You will be missed by all of us and will remain forever in our hearts.  All our love, Christopher, Jo-Anne, Michael, Danielle, Dominic and Catherine.

Dad, what a legacy you have left behind.  You have touched so many lives and achieved so much in your 83 years.  You freely gave of your time for family and friends and were truly a pillar of the community.   You were an entrepreneur who achieved so much despite your limited educational opportunities.  I cherish the time we worked together in Oakleigh and I hope to carry on your remarkable business legacy.  You imparted on your children and grandchildren the importance of honesty, integrity, loyalty and respect.  Zara, Alice and James have lovely memories of time spent at Dromana and the Gold Coast. Your passion for travel has been shared by all of us and we will always remember those fantastic family adventures around the world before Parkinson’s disease stopped you.  We will miss you so much but will remember you every time we play Scopa, go to watch the mighty Bombers, ride a roller coaster or have a glass of Jim Beam and Coke.  Love always Fiona, Mark, Zara, Alice and James.

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Dad, to all those fortunate enough to meet you, you were a man characterised by strength, integrity, wisdom and respect.  Whilst incredibly successful, you were always humble.  To me, you will always be my Dad showing me unwavering support and love tinged with just the right amount of holiday adventures and mischief!  Your reassuring smile was incredible.  Your words were never verbose; just enough to convey kindness and truth.  You always made key decisions with a selfless intent - in your children’s best interests and for future generations.  Your granddaughters adored you and are blessed to be surrounded by the family bond you created.  I will always be so proud to be your daughter and will do my utmost to ensure your beautiful legacy lives on.

All our love your ‘baby daughter’ Adriana, son in law Anthony and granddaughters Gabriella and Aurelia.

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The Zuccala Family would like to thank all the staff at Regis Malvern East who showed Dominic genuine compassion and exceptional care when he needed it most.  In particular, our sincere thanks to Blair, Justine, Kaylah, Anit and Vafa (amongst others) who epitomise all that is good with humanity.  Kerry the physiotherapist worked tirelessly to help Dominic prolong the use of his hands and arms and almost allowed him to re-gain the use of his legs – an amazing and dedicated professional.  At Regis, they all treated Dominic and us, as you would your own family members.

Our gratitude also extends to the Epworth and Alfred hospitals who worked so hard to save Dad and allowed us to spend 12 more precious months with him.  Thanks also to Dr Popp, Dominic’s caring GP for over 50 years.

Publication: Herald Sun