Vincent Edward “Jim” Rebellato, a beloved former athlete and cherished family man, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
Jim was known for his athletic skill and kind heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, sportsmanship, and community.
His passing has affected many people who knew him, resulting in numerous heartfelt tributes and cherished memories.
Born in 1941 to Anthony and Isabelle Rebellato, Jim grew up in Sault Ste. Marie’s vibrant West End.
Raised alongside his six siblings—Gene, Aj, Janice Gagon, Bridget Madill, Annette Gregorini, and Dennis Jim’s childhood was filled with the joys of family and the thrill of sports.
The west end, with its tight-knit community, shaped Jim into the resilient and kind-hearted man he became.
Jim was a standout athlete from a young age.
At St. Mary’s School, he shone as an outstanding running back on the football field.
His friend Jerry Bumbacco recalled,
“We grew up roaming the famous “west end” during those magical years of the 50’s and early 60’s Jimmy was always a true friend and gentleman, he always had time to lend and ear and actually listen for your point of view, a rarity in that end of town. He was an outstanding running back for St.Marys and I recall with sincere admiration that when we needed a first down Jimmy Reb got the ball as it usually took three guys to stop him and bring him down.
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We will miss you Rebbie, but your resiliency , and the pride you have for your family, will never be forgotten,”
Jim’s exceptional speed and strength made him a formidable presence on the field, earning respect and admiration from both teammates and opponents.
Beyond football, Jim was a well-liked fastball teammate and a regular at McFadden School’s baseball games.
His love for sports developed to hockey, where he competed fiercely in local Sunday night church league games.
As Ken Bumbacco noted,
“He was a fierce competitor and well liked fastball teammate for many years. My sincere condolences to his children, grandchildren, and the entire Rebellato Family. Rest In Peace Rebbi. You will be missed.”
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Jim’s passion for athletics was matched only by his sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Jim Excelled On The Field, But His Greatest Happiness Came From Being With His Family
He was the proud father of three daughters, Natalie Cerilli, Stephanie Glazewski, and Lisa Mannarino, whom he loved dearly.
His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them, whether at the family camp or cheering them on in their endeavors.
Jim’s love for his family was unwavering, and he took pride in their achievements and happiness.
Jim’s devotion to family grew to his siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Isabelle, and his brother Gene.
He is survived by his siblings Aj, Janice, Bridget, Annette, and Dennis, as well as his daughters, grandchildren, and many loved ones who will carry his memory forward.
Jim’s warm personality and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Whether at the ball field, the hockey rink, or his workplace, he had a knack for making people feel valued.
A coworker, known as Lara, shared,
“Every time he came in, he was like a ray of sunshine. Always offering a joke or a kind word and always eager to hear about my day. He made me feel special, always popping in just to say hello. I wish I could’ve seen you one last time. You will be greatly missed my friend, may you rest in peace.”
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Jim’s love for storytelling was legendary.
He often frequented the Marconi Club, not for the beer, but for the stories, as Wayne DeLuca recalled:
“I worked with him for a few years and played hockey against him for a while in the Church Sunday night games. A true competitor. He loved the West End stories, especially The Marconi Esquires. He once told me he went to the Marconi not to drink beer, but to listen to the stories.
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RIP Rebby!”
Jim’s ability to listen and connect with others made him a true friend and gentleman, as Jerry and Fay Bumbacco described.
His ties to the West End remained strong throughout his life.
Friends like George Michael Trbovich remembered Jim and his crew playing baseball at McFadden School, evoking “beautiful memories” of a life well-lived.
Jim’s presence in the community was a source of joy and inspiration.
True to his humble nature, Jim requested that no services be held after his passing.
Instead, his family encourages memorial donations to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH), a cause close to their hearts.
The family expressed deep gratitude to the staff on 3B at Sault Area Hospital, particularly Andrew and Sabrina, for their compassionate care during Jim’s final days.
Arrangements were entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre.
As his community mourns his loss, they also celebrate a life filled with purpose and connection.
Jim’s memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
