Interview with Andy Donato

Andy Donato was born in 1937 in Toronto, Ontario. His mother, Adelina Benedetti, was also born in Canada, while his father, Luciano Donato, was born in Italy in 1897 and came to Canada, via New York, in 1922. Luciano initially lived with his brother in Toronto (formerly Mimico). He first worked in construction and then as a presser at Eaton's before opening a grocery store in Scarborough in the Birchmount and Danforth area. The store was later moved to Woodrow and Danforth, where Luciano contracted a new building to be built; this store was in operation until 1957 when it was sold. Luciano then worked at Ontario Hydro before retiring at age 70. Luciano was never interned during World War II, but Andy remembers other relatives and paesani being taken away, such as the Orlandos. He also remembers some name calling and says his father was constantly fearful of being taken away. Andy also talks about growing up in Toronto, going to school, and becoming a professional artist. He has illustrated for Eaton's, The Telegram, and The Toronto Sun.