POW #: P776
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: April 03, 1941
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Single
OCCUPATION: Tailor

RELEASE NOTES: Unconditionally – had to report to RCMP in Montreal upon arrival home

Giuseppe (Joseph) Raco lived on Drolet St. in Montreal. He was single and he worked as a tailor. He was arrested on June 10, 1940 and interned on August 14, 1940. He was accused of being a member of the fascio with very radical views. When asked, Raco denied belonging to the fascio or any such clubs. He was considered an elder in the United Church of the Redeemer.

In a letter dated February of 1941, Hyndman wrote:

I may say that I formed a very high opinion of this man, and although it is intimated that he might injure, or even kill, the Rev. Bersani if he should be allowed his liberty, I think such statements are entirely fantastic. He is not that kind of man in my considered opinion. At any rate I fully believe him when he states that he is not a member of any of these Italian organizations…Dr. Katsunoff [supervisor of the Church of the Redeemer] stated that he suspected that [Raco] was interned because of trouble which occurred between him and the Rev. Bersani, Raco having been one of the complainants against Bersani on account of his alleged neglect of church duties.

And in a later note, dated March 15, 1941:

It would appear to me now that the principal objection to Raco’s release is the fear in the heart of Bersani that he [Raco] may murder him which, as I have said in my former report, is entirely fantastic, and I cannot be brought to believe that the Defence of Canada Regulations were ever intended to protect people such as Bersani from possible assassination by this man or anybody else. The original law is quite capable of looking after matters of this sort.

On April 3, 1941 at 12:28 a.m., Raco was released from Petawawa Internment Camp.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 5236, Internee File 5052, “Giuseppe (Joseph) Raco.”
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 673, File 5236.
• Library and Archives Canada, JD Hyndman Fonds: MG30, E182, Vol. 14.
• Minister’s Orders List V1 & V3.

POW #: P1042
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: November 19, 1941
NATURALIZED:
BORN: April 20, 1882
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Manager, Catelli Food Products Ltd., Vancouver factory

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations)

Italo Giuseppe Rader was a prominent member of the Italian Canadian community in Vancouver. A successful businessman, he was married to Louisa. The couple had three sons, Louis, Italo Jr. and Albert. 

Rader first arrived in Canada in 1900 and settled in Alberta. In 1915, he began a macaroni company in Lethbridge, AB. He was able to sell his company five years later for $80,000 to Catelli Food Products Ltd. based in Montreal. Soon thereafter, Rader opened a Vancouver-based office and factory for Catelli. He was noted as the manager of the factory in government documents dating to his arrest in 1940.

Rader appears to have had other business interests, including acting as a broker for Lewis De-Inking Process Company Ltd. This resulted in a serious and potentially dangerous claim seen in the correspondence in his Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) file. Soon after his internment, the company contacted the CEP. They expressed concern that Rader acting on the company’s behalf to dispose of Italian Patent Rights to the Industrial Bureau of Italy, obscured the resulting transactions from the company and may have “illegally retained” the funds amounting to $250,000. They also suggested the possible involvement of Dr. P. Ragona and name Francesco Federici (also interned) as Ragona’s brother-in-law. They asked that the Canadian government undertake a full investigation. For his part, Rader denied that any funds resulted from his work as a broker for Lewis De-Inking Process Company Ltd. Any subsequent action on this issue is not known.

At the time of his arrest, along with his business activities and work, Rader seems to have been involved in social circles and organizations. In Vancouver, he belonged to the Rotary Club. He was also a member of the local fascio, Circolo Giulio Giordani. He had acted as the chair in organizing a dinner thanking the departing Italian vice-consul Pietro Colbertaldo in May 1937. It appears Rader had a long history of fascist activities or support. While in Alberta, he had served as the consul for the communities of Calgary and Lethbridge. In 1926, he was a primary player at a convention held in Calgary of all fasci in Alberta.

Arrested on June 10, 1940 and interned on July 2, 1940, Rader was a citizen (a naturalized British subject). He did have his supporters. Writing on his behalf with respect to a property sale in Lethbridge, his solicitor notes:

In our opinion he should not be interned. We understand that his name happened to be on a list of members of an Italian Social Organization of Vancouver and this list was found by the authorities in the office of the Italian Consul. Like a number of other perfectly good citizens of this City, the fact that his name was on a list would bring him under suspicion. Mr. Rader’s friends are now engaged in showing that there are no proper grounds for that suspicion. (Ladner, Carmichael & Downs, letter to Colonial Service Association, November 1, 1940, CEP: RG 117 Vol 651 File 3390, LAC)

During his internment his wife received $75/month from his assets for her upkeep. He asked that it be doubled to adequately provide for her care and household expenses.

The reasons for his release are not known. He apparently became a consul for the Italian government in Vancouver after the war.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro

Do you know:
What happened to Rader after the war?
 
SOURCES:

• Culos, Ray. Vancouver’s Society of Italians. Vancouver: Harbour Publishing, 1998.
• Davies, Adriana. “The Black-Shirted Fascisti are Coming to Alberta”. In Beyond Barbed Wire: Essays on the Internment of Italian Canadians. Edited by Licia Canton et al. Toronto: Guernica, 2012.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP): RG 117, Vol 651, File 3390.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG18, F-3, Vol 3563, Part 4.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol 3569, File E.

POW #: P569
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: June 01, 1941
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations)

Not much is known about Vincenzo Radino. He was held at a facility in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and was then moved to Petawawa. At the time of his internment, he was married and had two sons: Erminio (to whom he gave power of attorney) and Joseph. His wife was ill, but she was cared for by a live-in maid.

Radino was successful. The government noted that he had $12,000 in assets. He was released on compassionate grounds, likely due to the poor health of his wife.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro

Do you know…
What did Radino do for a living?
Was he a member of the Order Sons of Italy or the fascio in Montreal?
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 657, Internee File 3899, “Vincenzo Radino.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 2.

POW #: P347
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: September 08, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN: August 18, 1894
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Windsor
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer, City of Windsor

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations) and agreeing to a special undertaking

Not much is known about Severino (Sam) Rainone. At the time of his arrest he was 45 years old and married to Carmela. The couple had six children: Carmen was 18, Vera 17, Orlando 16, Sunta 11, Sonny 8, and Louis was 2 years old.

Rainone appears on the spring 1940 government list of “Italian members of the fascio, not naturalized, whose internment is recommended.” The Windsor police register indicated the offence charged as “Investigation.” It is also noted that Rainone was illiterate.

Rainone was released into the custody of military authorities on June 12, 1940, presumably for transfer to Petawawa Internment Camp. He was among the few Italian Canadian internees transferred to Fredericton Internment Camp. It is unclear what evidence supported his continuing internment.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) maintained a file on this individual, which notes that his family faced financial hardship. They applied for government relief but were initially refused. The landlady threatened to evict the family. Therefore, CEP agents made an investigation and discovered that the family had very little food. Although Rainone’s assets totalled less than $500, CEP charged a $10.00 administration fee for their work with respect to the approval of government relief and in preventing the eviction. The family paid the fee.

Rainone was ordered released on September 1, 1942, but the reasons are not known. Rainone had to report monthly to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), could not change his place of residence without first reporting to the RCMP, and could not leave Windsor “without first reporting the details and purpose of his proposed trip” to the RCMP. 

Other biographical information is lacking.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro

Do you know…
Why was Rainone held so long? Why was he among those transferred to Fredericton?
What happened to Rainone after the war?
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 651, Internee File 3453, “Severino (Sam) Rainone.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, C11-19-2-3-pt 4.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 6.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3569, File E.
• Windsor Police Services Board and Windsor Police Service, RG 8, D Records of Operational Divisions 1915-1959, II. Administrative Division 1920-1957, 1. Criminal Records Branch – Prisoners Registers 1920-1950, Unit 11 [1940].

POW #: P205
ARRESTED: June 10, 1943
RELEASED: March 1943
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Cape Breton
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Released conditionally upon his subscribing to a special Undertaking.

Michele (Michael) Ranni lived on Laurier St. in Sydney, NS.

On June 10, 1940, he was arrested and sent to Camp Petawawa.  He was later sent to Camp Fredericton before his release in March of 1943.

After his release, Ranni was ordered to pay $50 administration fee for the handling of his affairs by Crowell, Balcom & Co. of Halifax.  Ranni argued that when he was arrested, a trunk was taken from him and was never returned.  Thus, Ranni requested compensation in the amount of $40.82 to be applied towards his $50 balance for the lost of his possessions.

An investigation into the whereabouts of the trunk discovered that a trunk with a combination padlock was indeed taken from Ranni’s home on the day of his arrest. The trunk was delivered to the RCMP Sydney where it was opened.  Inside were “black shirt” clothing and regalia, as well as a .32 caliber Harrington & Richardson revolver in the pocket of a black leather motorcycle coat. Upon Ranni’s release the Custodian of Enemy Property approved the RCMP’s release and return of the trunk to Ranni.  The trunk was apparently stored in the Smith & McCoy storeroom in the Ross Block, Charlotte St. in Sydney but when Ranni arrived there was no trace of his trunk.  Russel Smith, operator of the store, said that the trunk was taken to the city dump about a year prior, but it fell apart in the basement and was eventually thrown out.  According to Smith the janitor who threw out the trunk said that it was empty; Smith’s only explanation as to what became of the contents is that it might have been stolen when the basement was broken into some time ago.

Since the trunk was never returned to Ranni, his request for a cheque of $40.82 (to be turned over to Crowell, Balcom & Co.) was granted and the remaining balance of $9.18 was waived.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 698, Internee File 13613 “Michael Ranni.”
• Minister’s Orders List.

POW #: P783
ARRESTED:
RELEASED: March 18, 1941
NATURALIZED: 1915
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Helper, Angus Shops; Canadian Pacific Railway

RELEASE NOTES: Unconditional

Not much is known about Pasquale Rapone. At the time of his arrest, he had been a citizen (a naturalized British subject) for 25 years, and he had worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) for 33 years. Rapone had three brothers-in-law in the Canadian military service. 

Government documents indicate that Rapone was interned at Camp Petawawa on August 9, 1940. The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) maintained a file on this individual, which noted that he was married to Elizabeth Bethodi. The couple had two teenage sons: Harry and Alfred. As the following letter clearly indicates, the family faced financial hardship as a result of Rapone’s internment:

…my husband who is interned in an alien camp at Petawawa, Ont., on the charge of being a member of the fascist movement, he has been taken away from me over three months now, and who left me without support, and also ever since my husband’s absence, I have been taken ill, not knowing why, not knowing why, my husband still remains interned as I can produce hundreds of people who can vouch of his innocence … thousands of his comrades of all language can state a marvelous word of his character … how long more is my husband going to remain absent from me, don’t he expect a hearing, or a trial as he is entitled I hope, as I have many letters of recommendations in the hands of the authorities … I cannot meet my creditors which are after me every week, giving me news such as: if I cannot pay in a day or two, so and so will be seized, such as my furniture and probably lose my home, of which I cherish immensity for the sake of my son who has been born here, also myself, as I am 52 years of age now, and depressed physically, morally and almost mentally, that’s why Dear Sir, I am begging of you very humbly, to assist me in some way, that I can be rescued from these firms which pests me, with money that I cannot pay, until my husband’s Freedom … and telling you the God-full truth many times, I am forced to do without a meal. My Light has been discontinued… I have insurances of my husband, myself and my son of which I cannot meet… I am Canadian born here in Montreal, and have three of my brothers in the Can. Exp. Force doing their part of which they would gladly help me, but to my regret, they are married and have their own family to support… I will close Dear Sir, as I know that I am boring you, please do forgive me, as I am upset about everything, and wishing that consolation comes my way… (Mrs. P. Rapone, Letter to CEP, September 20, 1940).

The reasons for Rapone’s arrest and release are not known. Other biographical information is lacking.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro

Do you know…
Why was Rapone arrested and interned?
What happened to Rapone after the war?
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 656, Internee File 3854, “Pasquale Rapone.”

POW #: P306
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: April 11, 1941
NATURALIZED:
BORN: February 11, 1905
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Niagara Region
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer/Inspector, Plymouth Cordage

RELEASE NOTES: Unconditional release

Antonio Raso was married to Agata (b.1905) and they had two daughters: Rosina (b. 1931) and Joan (b. 1933). Raso immigrated to Canada in 1921. He may have trained as a shoemaker in Italy, but at the time of his arrest he worked as an inspector for Plymouth Cordage; the company made cord (rope) from hemp. The family lived at 83 Lincoln St. in Welland. This was a semi-detached home that was rented from Plymouth Cordage. Raso’s mother Rose (b. 1868) also lived at this address.

Raso was a founding member of the Welland lodge for the Order Sons of Italy (OSI) and played in a band – the name of the band or the instrument is not known. His family believes his involvement with the OSI was the cause of his internment.

Arrested at work, Raso was taken to Toronto to be held at the Canadian National Exhibition grounds until his transfer to Petawawa Internment Camp. The authorities also went to his home. According to his sister-in-law Mary Raso, while his wife Agata was being questioned: “Well, some people across the street and they were hollering, ‘Put him in jail, you wop’”.

During his internment, Raso’s family faced financial hardships. Agata had worked at the Empire Cotton Mills but was fired after her husband was interned. She sought other work and applied for relief. According to her sister Mary, all of the family’s assets were seized by the government (likely the Custodian of Enemy Property). Agata, her daughters, and her mother-in-law had to move in with Agata’s family, all sharing a mattress laid on the floor in the crowded home. She also faced continued questioning by the authorities and others: “… some of them, there was one man that was not very respectful. And his wife quizzed my sister one day and they didn’t even take her in the kitchen. They brought her in the cellar”.

Agata did hire a lawyer to assist her husband in his objection to his internment. He was released after 10 months.

Raso did not complain about his treatment while interned. According to his sister-in-law, he was well-fed and had learned how to carve, bringing home wooden spoons and forks.

After his release, Raso found work as a welder in Port Robinson.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk and Lucy Di Pietro
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 655, Internee File 3775 “Antonio Raso.”
• Mary Raso. Personal Interview. November 17, 2011. ICEA2011.0077.0001, Columbus Centre Collection.

POW #: P905
ARRESTED: September 10, 1940
RELEASED: March 29, 1943
NATURALIZED:
BORN: June 10, 1895
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Other Ontario
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer, Northern Rubber Company

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Tommaso (Thomas) Rasso arrived in New York City in 1912 aboard the S.S. America. He came to Canada in 1923 and his wife Nancetta “Annie” Sobaro and their daughter Nancy (b. 1924) arrived in Guelph in 1928. Tommaso and Annie would have three more children: Domenic (b. 1930), Mary (b. 1932) and Susie (b. 1937). The Rassos lived at 72 Metcalfe St. in Guelph.

Rasso was allegedly linked to Hamilton crime boss Rocco Perri and was a known associate of Domenico Longo and Domenico Belcastro, both known criminals. All three of these men were interned during World War II. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) suspected that Rasso, Longo and Belcastro were involved in two murders during the late 1930s, but a lack of evidence meant no charges could be laid. Rasso’s internment began when he presented himself to Guelph police to register as an enemy alien. A previous record stemming from the illegal traffic in liquor led to his being taken into custody. Afterwards he was transferred to Toronto where he spent three months at the Lansdowne Barracks before being sent to Petawawa Internment Camp.

While interned, Rasso’s daughter Nancy worked an unknown job and made $50 a month. This money was used to support the family.

Rasso’s release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the RCMP once a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Guelph without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations.

After Rasso was released from camp, he had problems with his hearing. He attributed this to the cold and damp tents internees had to live in when they first arrived at the Fredericton Internment Camp.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk

SOURCES:

• Archives of Ontario, Order Sons of Italy, Grand Lodge Records, F4378, Letter from Thomas Rasso to unknown, 4 Jan. 1948.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 685, Internee File 6504 “Tomasso Rasso.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, File C-11-19-2-3 Part 2, Letter from RCMP to the Inter-Departmental Committee, 4 Oct. 1940.

POW #: P400
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: April 02, 1943
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer, Anglo-Canadian Pulp and Paper Mill

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release

Giovanni (John) Rastello was married to Serafina Pierolo. He had shares in Tampax and various mining companies. He allowed the Custodian of Enemy Property to sell his shares so the money could be given to Serafina to cover her living expenses. Rastello’s brother-in-law Annibale was living in an asylum and Rastello was responsible for the cost of his accommodations.

Rastello’s release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) once a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Montreal without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 648, Internee File 3219 “Giovanni Rastello.”

POW #: P968
ARRESTED: February 04, 1941
RELEASED: March 08, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN: December 14, 1914
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Hamilton
MARITAL STATUS: Separated
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (4) (Defence of Canada Regulations)

Antonio Bernardo (Anthony Bernard) Ratigliano was born in 1914 in Naples, Italy.  At the age of three, he came to Canada with his parents. He attended separate school in Hamilton, ON.  He received three years of High School education while in Kingston Penitentiary and Collins Bay Penitentiary (1935-1937), both in Kingston, ON. 

In 1938, Ratigliano worked odd jobs as a mechanic, show card writer, and a truck driver.  On September 8, 1939, he enlisted in the Army.  The Echelon Commander said that Ratigliano was an unsuitable soldier and continuously off sick due to “sore feet.”  Further, he was argumentative, a gambler, and a leadswinger.  Ratigliano also allegedly stated that he would not soldier if Italy declared war.  Ratigliano was discharged from 2 Division, Petrol Company, R.C.A.S.C. at Camp Borden on July 1, 1940; Ratigliano felt his dismissal unwarranted. Due to his criminal record, which included auto theft, assault and robbery, thefts, possession of weapons, and attempted armed robbery, Ratigliano was unable to find work.  His nationality further added to the difficulty of finding a job as war seemed imminent.

By 1940, Ratigliano was married to Anna Randazzio; they were childless.  He was still not naturalized and later when asked about it, he stated he had no desire to. He was noted as being Roman Catholic.  On July 5, 1940 he was registered as an enemy alien (Parole Certificate no. 45612). 

In September of 1940, he was briefly employed for a month at Great Central Freight Lines but was fired when he failed to show up for work.  His wife apparently left him during this time.  Ratigliano then went to stay at the International Hotel, a known hangout for bootleggers, bookmakers, prostitutes, and gamblers.  A month later, he obtained work as a taxi driver for Crown Taxi but was again fired ― this time for “dishonesty in his car mileage and using his taxi for the sale of beer.” Moreover, the owner, Mr. Fortier, said Ratigliano was “an agitator among the other employees and continually complained about the difficulties of the job.” Ratigliano was still unemployed in January of 1940.

On February 4, 1941 at 3 p.m., after three months of being under surveillance watch, Ratigliano was arrested. Grounds for his arrest were because of his lengthy criminal record and because of allegations that he expressed anti-British views.  RCMP notes state that although there was no proof that Ratigliano had any involvement with subversive organizations, his internment was still deemed necessary because of a possibility that Ratigliano could act as a saboteur “in light of his record, knowledge of weapons, shortage of funds and present state of mind.”

Upon Ratigliano’s arrest, the following items were found on him: 1 leather wallet, 1 Canadian Active Service Discharge Certificate, 1 chauffeurs license, 1 identification card, 1 Catholic identification metal plate, 1 National Registration Card Certificate, 1 Membership Card Westdale Athletic Society, 2 cab drivers licenses, 1 small note book, and $48 cash.

Ratigliano was sent to Petawawa Internment Camp and released on March 8, 1942 at 7:25 a.m.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga

SOURCES:

• Hamilton List.
• Minister’s Orders List V5.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 691, Internee File 8281 “Antonio Bernardo Ratigliano.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3569, File E.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Parts 1 and 2.

POW #: P330
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: December 14, 1940
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN: 1892
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Windsor
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer

Angelo Ravenello and his wife lived at 482 Logan St. in Windsor. He was interned because his name appeared on a list of Windsor fascists that Luigi Meconi (also interned) provided to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Upon closer investigation the list was discovered to be a membership list of the local branch of the Italian War Veterans’ Association.

At the time of his arrest, Ravenello had $155, a knife, a watch and a comb on his person.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Canadian Armed Forces, RG 24, Vol. 6586, File 5-1-1.
• Library and Archives Canada, James Duncan Hyndman fonds:  MG30, E 182, Vol. 14, Letter to Ernest Lapointe, Minister of Justice, 3 Dec. 1940.
• Windsor Public Library Archives, Windsor Police Services Board and Windsor Police Services: RG8, Prisoners Registers 1920-1950.

POW #: P531
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: September 21, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Cape Breton
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Business man, Shoemaker

RELEASE NOTES: Released conditionally upon his first subscribing to the Undertaking set out in Regulation 24 of the DOCR, and further, that he subscribe to a special Undertaking.

Rodolfo Razzolini was born to Italian immigrants who came to Canada before the two World Wars. It is likely that Razzolini was born in Italy as his son, Esperando Razzolini, mentions his father’s stint as an altar boy back in Italy. Rodolfo’s parents eventually moved to the United States, but Rodolfo and his two siblings stayed in Canada.

Razzolini married a Canadian born Irish-Italian named Annabelle Marsh. According to their son, Razzolini belonged to Italian nobility while Marsh belonged to one of the “first families” who settled in Cape Breton, NS. The Razzolinis lived on Smith St. in New Waterford with their four children. Razzolini operated a shoe store in the business sector of town in a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood.

On June 10, 1940, Razzolini was arrested. Esperando remembers that day: “I was home and it was just an upheaval you know. The Mounties came in and just took him away. Period. That was it. And we didn’t see him anymore.” The family never received an explanation; instead the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer said to the family, “We have nothing against your father, but we’re taking him away more for his own safekeeping.”  According to Esperando, during his father’s hearing the judge asked many questions about the Razzolinis’ connection to the royal family in Italy. The son also states that his father was not active in fascist or social clubs. However he does remember his parents donating gold medals and jewellery (including his mother’s wedding ring) to Italy in response to Mussolini’s call for donations.

By June 25, 1940, Razzolini arrived at Petawawa Internment Camp; in total he was interned for 27 months, also spending some time at the Fredericton Internment Camp. He knew some of the others interned, like Pietro (Peter) Favretto, but he also made new friends. Razzolini wrote to his family however the letters were censored. He also wrote letters to the government; one, a complaint about the agents who searched his house for hours on June 10th. 

With his father gone, Esperando quit school to work in the coal mines to help pay for the family’s expenses. Government files state that as of September 11, 1941, no funds were made available to Mrs. Razzolini and her four children. In an Extract from Particulars submitted by the Provincial Relief Authorities, dated May 12, 1941:

Mr. Razzolini was a shoemaker in New Waterford and had a nice business before being interned. After he was interned in June 1940 his wife tried to carry on the business but was unable to make a success of it. They have no other means of support and I understand that her property is being sold by the Town for taxes. This woman had a hard time getting through this winter and we found it necessary to give her a few orders for groceries to help along.

Esperando validates this:

Things weren’t as bad as it sounds. The authorities supplied the groceries and the groceries were supplied by a store by the name of Hinchey’s. And Hinchey at that time was the mayor of New Waterford. So, he supplied the groceries to all the families that were interned ― as far as I know. But I can only speak of my family, of what happened to my family.

After his release, Razzolini told his family about his internment experience, mentioning the “good food” and details of working outside in the woods. Razzolini also brought home souvenirs, such as little boxes made out of birds-eye maple meant to hold cigarettes and matchsticks. The family business resumed and according to Esperando it didn’t take long for his father to get back on his feet.

Esperando says that his father sort of understood why the Canadian government did what they did and that there was no real resentment as his father’s attitude in life was always “take it as it comes.” Further, since Razzolini was a naturalist he didn’t mind being interned: “So to be out in the woods and working outdoors, this was right up his alley. He didn’t mind it. He called it his vacation! So it didn’t bother him too much.” However, a letter (dated August 16, 1943) written by Razzolini to the Custodian of Enemy Property may indicate otherwise:  “Mr. Glaire Gillis, our local MP, introduced a discussion in Parliament, that the Italian internees had been treated unjustly.  As these ideas were like those of my own mind, I delayed replying your letter in the hope that something further would come up in regards.”  In the same letter, Razzolini writes that he is waiting for a victory bond to mature in about two months which would allow him to pay them back in full, but that in the mean time, he had included a money order for $10.  Razzolini is referring to the administration fee of $25 charged to him by the Custodian for handling his affairs while he was interned.

Esperando says after the war, he remembers taking a trip to Montreal with his dad where they met and dined with some Italian men who may have been fellow internees. Razzolini had two more children after the war.  Today, he is survived by his two sons, Esperando and Dante, and his daughter, Beatrice.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Interview with Esperando Razzolini, son of Rodolfo Razzolini. June 23, 2011. Columbus Centre Collection.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP): RG117, vol. 695, File 11061, Internee file, “Rodolfo Razzolini.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG18 F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 6.
• Minister’s Orders List V1 & V6.

POW #: P1107
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: September 25, 1943
NATURALIZED: July 31, 1931
BORN: August 13, 1892
DIED: 1982

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Southern Alberta
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Mechanic

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon agreeing to a Special Undertaking

Antonio Rebaudengo was born in Piozzo, Cuneo, Piedmont. Rebaudengo was the third generation to live in Italy; his family was originally from Spain. He married Angelina Ceresero in Turin in 1920. The couple had one son Mario born in 1921. Rebaudengo was trained as a mechanic. His wife Angelina had herself learned the furrier trade – making, repairing, and otherwise working with fur clothing.

The family’s reason for moving to Canada was more politically-driven than economic. According to his wife, Rebaudengo was vehemently anti-Communist. He left Italy because he felt he could not get a job in his field unless he joined the Communist Party and/or the union movement. 

The family sailed from Genoa to New York on the Cristoforo Colombo. From there, they took the train to Montreal and arrived in Calgary on April 1, 1922. Rebaudengo had been sponsored by his brother, who was already in Calgary.

Rebaudengo found work as a machinist in the Ogden Shops, Canadian Pacific Railway’s (CPR) repair and maintenance facilities. Angelina’s first job was at a dairy, wrapping butter and ice cream. She later worked for a manufacturer taking orders. While she worked, their son Mario was cared for by a neighbour. The couple learned to speak English. Rebaudengo took classes and earned a certificate.

Angelina had brothers living in the United States. They provided some money to help the family build their first home in 1927.

Around this time, Rebaundengo became very active in the local Italian Canadian community. In 1922, he worked to form a fascio in Calgary. By all accounts, he seems to have been a strident fascist supporter. There are some claims he followed the hard-line tactics used by the party in Italy, including threatening and intimidating non-supporters and/or opponents. It is suggested that he was involved in an altercation with Ovindolo Onofri, which resulted in Onofri seeking police protection against Rebaundengo.

Rebaudengo also played a primary role in the formation and organization of the fascio in Venice in 1925, along with Rodolfo (Rudolph) Michetti. In 1926, Rebaundengo attended a convention in Calgary of all fasci in Alberta. The convention resulted in the formation of a Provincial Federation of the fasci of Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge and Venice. He served as the Provincial Secretary – the nature of the role and its responsibilities is not detailed.

In 1930, he became the honorary vice-consul in Calgary, succeeding Italo Rader who had moved to Vancouver. He engaged in various disputes throughout this time period with activist and antifascist Alex Picco.

At the time of his arrest, Rebaudengo was a citizen (a British naturalized subject). In a letter from Camp Petawawa, he writes to his wife:

First of all I must tell you that the judge was perfectly aware of my political behaviours, who informed him I don’t know, certainly I confirmed I was a fascist when fascism in Canada was legal, namely before June 12, 1940, the day in which all so-called subversive associations were dissolved and therefore I was not against the law of this country; the judge knew I had cooperated in the collection of gold for the homeland in 1936 and knew other facts regarding my activity which continued until June 12, 1940, as I have always stated, that is to say while it was permissible. Then there is my later, dated 28 September 1939, to my sister Giuseppina. It was a private letter as much as my opinion was private when Italy was not yet at war; furthermore I wrote convinced I had the right of freedom of thought and speech that is so often preached by newspapers and personalities who label a free country. Furthermore having behaved as a law abiding citizen during 20 years of life in this country it should be sufficient proof that I have never contravened the law. (September 16, 1941, Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

He later sums up the case against him, amounting to four counts: 

First, I was born in Italy, “Italian Fascist”, “fascist propaganda”, “anti-British”. Number one is an honour. I would like to know what an Englishman accused to be born in his country would say? Number two is correct. Number three is a ridiculous assertion because how could a humble and simple worker, with a grade four education, be able to spread propaganda? Number four is falser yet, I am not and never been against Canada. (May 22, 1942 Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

Rebaudengo is one the few men who were interned at all three camps. He wrote many letters to his family from the camps as well as kept a diary. From this material, now held by the Glenbow Archives, one is able to get a better sense of Rebaudengo’s personality, including his anti-Semitism:

The Canadians have only now realized that the Jews have taken advantage of the situation, because they who know the former to be blind and gullible, but I hope that this deception will end. The matter of Uncle Sam is not clear as yet, but I believe that he too will join the dance, although there will be little difference in the music. (November 26, 1941, Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

He later writes to his wife: “You mention to me the Jews, they are shrewd, and vile are those who follow them” (February 24, 1942). He also uses coded references, as indicated above with respect to Uncle Sam, but also more veiled ones referencing the “donkey”, the “bear” and “Goldie”. It would appear that this very correspondence was used against him in later hearings and reviews of his case by Judges Miller and Taschereau.

His continued internment angers Rebaudengo; he displays self-righteousness and indignation in many of his later letters. He blames Picco and others for his internment, and begrudges the release of fellow internees and former acquaintances:

As you know [Ennio Vittorio] Fabbri [sic] from Vancouver was set free. He was not only the secretary, but also the inspector of the Fascio; Rader then had a set of responsibilities, but you see, they whined and made promises in front of the judge, they bent over backwards. (February 4, 1942, Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

He seems to be on friendly terms with Fred Tenisci (a bunk mate). He however warns his wife that she is not to allow the released Rino Baesso to board with her. While in the camps, he worked in the kitchen and spent his free time carving wooden souvenirs and toys. From his letters, it seems that his wife may have sold some of these wood carvings as they were sent to her.

While Rebaudengo was interned, his wife became ill. As an enemy alien, she found it difficult to earn an income. Her sole support, her son Mario was conscripted. The family was conflicted about Mario’s service in the Canadian military, first vigorously fighting against it. Rebaudengo writes:

I ask myself why it is that in dictatorial countries the only son of a mother without a husband is not called to arms, while here they cover their lewd democracy under a chaste veil, calling those born in an enemy country, those whose father has been kept, like a wild beast, behind bars for more than twenty months. (March 16, 1942, Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

However, they were told and believed they could use Mario’s service to advantage his father’s case. Angelina would also be helped, as mothers of servicemen were entitled to a stipend. This was initially denied to Angelina Rebaudengo, given her enemy alien status, but she fought for it. She claimed to have met with the Minister of Justice, a doctor and other officials at the Pallister Hotel. Although she won her argument, Mario’s service in the military did nothing to assist his father’s case. When he learned of this, Rebaudengo’s opportunistic nature is also revealed:

…I heard that you would have received a subsidy for our son; they have bought him for twenty dollars per month. I did tell you that the interrogation they imposed on you was a farce. Now Mario must protest and ask to be released, he is a citizen of an enemy nation and he should not wear the uniform. (November 12, 1942, Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, letter (translation), M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124)

Mario continued in his service, which ironically took him to New Brunswick and allowed him to visit his father in Camp Fredericton in late 1942. Angelina was also able to secure a position in the fur department at the Hudson’s Bay Company store. A colleague complained about working with an enemy alien, but her manager apparently notified employees that there was to be no politics in the store. She remained employed and worked at the store for 10 years.

Throughout his internment and in his letters Rebaudengo makes many references to the issue of his own and his family’s citizenship status. There are suggestions that they may leave Canada after the war and that Mario should not make attachments to any girls as a result. In January 1942, he advises his son not to take any steps towards citizenship. On several occasions, he references the value in renouncing his own citizenship. It is unclear if the citizenship status is related to the war’s outcome. However, after Italy’s capitulation and Rebaudengo’s release, the family remained in Canada.

Towards the end of 1943, Rebaudengo appears bitter. He notes that the remaining internees have been forgotten and abandoned by the Italian government. He also claims that after his release he will distance himself from the Italian community. This sentiment changed with his eventual release, the reasons for which are not known. Not only did the Rebaudengos continue to assist Italian immigrants to Calgary with settlement, but Rebaudengo himself sought and was given the position of honourary vice-counsul for the Italian government after the war. He served in this position until the 1970s. 

Rebaudengo was able to return to his former position at the CPR. After his release, the family built a second home in 1944. Their previous home was given to their son Mario and his new wife. Rebaudengo then earned a position as a mechanic for the separate school board from which he retired at age 65. Their home was bought by the city in 1967 for a municipal project. The couple was assisted by city staff in locating a new home, where they remained until Rebaudengo’s death in 1982.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro
 
SOURCES:

• Davies, Adriana. ICEA Research Report. 2012. Unpublished.
• Davies, Adriana. “The Black-Shirted Fascisti are Coming to Alberta”. In Beyond Barbed Wire: Essays on the Internment of Italian Canadians. Edited by Licia Canton et al. Toronto: Guernica, 2012.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP): RG 117, Vol 690, File 7680.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol 3569, File E.
• Rebaudengo Fonds, Glenbow Archives, M 7685, PA 3030, NA 5124.

POW #: P413
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: February 21, 1941
NATURALIZED: October 28, 1913
BORN: December 01, 1891
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Tailor, owned and operated tailor shop

RELEASE NOTES: Unconditional release

Francesco (Frank) Reda was married and had two children: Angelo (b. 1914) and a daughter (name unknown, b. 1915). The Redas rented a home at 245 St. Zotique St. East in Montreal. Reda’s tailor business was located at 402-1449 St. Alexander St. and employed 11. During his interment, the shop was run by Armand Despatis, a cutter, and A. Harry Shefler, a bookkeeper.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 645, Internee File 3108 “Francesco Reda.”

POW #:
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: November 03, 1942
NATURALIZED: 1929
BORN: 1894
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Windsor
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Salesperson and bookmaker

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Vincenzo Renda arrived in the United States (US) in 1912 and settled in Detroit. He was involved in some bootlegging while living in the US. He met his wife Nina in Detroit and the couple was married there in 1922. In 1923, the Rendas moved to Windsor and had two children (b. 1929 and 1931, respectively). At the time of Vincenzo’s internment the family lived at 155 St. Mary’s Blvd. Vincenzo and Nina owned their home as well as a number of rural properties in the surrounding area.

Renda denied involvement in the fascio or the dopolavoro but did admit to being the president of the Order Sons of Italy in Windsor and a member of the Marsala Club in Detroit.

In his report on Renda, J.D. Hyndman, a judge appointed to review the cases of internees, wrote:

I gather that the main argument against him is that being a ‘bookmaker’ he is a man who is liable to be bribed into committing acts of a subversive nature notwithstanding that there is no evidence of any kind of any overt act or expression which would indicate disloyalty to Canada. In other words, because he is a ‘bookmaker’, he is liable to be bribed into committing some criminal act. Had this been a prosecution in any Court [sic] of law there would be no case against him at all.

Hyndman recommended Renda’s release. His release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) twice a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Windsor without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk

SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, James Duncan Hyndman fonds:  MG30, E 182, Vol. 14, Letter to Ernest Lapointe, Minister of Justice, 16 June 1941.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, File C-11-19-2-3 Part 6, Letter from Louis St. Laurent, Minister of Justice, to S.T. Wood, RCMP Commissioner, 27 Oct. 1942.

POW #: P570
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: May 24, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN: 1875
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Widowed
OCCUPATION: Physician; Vice-President, San Marco Company Ltd.; Canadian Agent, Martini & Rossi, Italy; Secretary, Centro Canadese di Studi Italiani

RELEASE NOTES: Released for repatriation to Italy

Vittorio Vincenzo Restaldi was a leading member of the Italian Canadian community in Montreal. He arrived in Canada in 1900. Restaldi returned to Italy in 1914 to serve in the military during World War I. He possessed related uniforms, epaulets, ribbons and medals. In 1914, he also married Gabrielle Lavergne Noel, who came from a well-connected family. Her father was the Hon. Justice Joseph Lavergne, Liberal M.P. (1887-1897) and in 1906, appointed to Court of King’s Bench, Province of Quebec.

Restaldi also became the stepfather to Noel’s daughter – Andrea. Gabrielle died on December 25, 1928, leaving her estate to Restaldi. Her mother, Andrea’s grandmother, passed away in 1930, leaving her estate to her granddaughter. Restaldi claimed to have maintained Andrea and supported her as his own daughter from 1919-1935.

Restaldi was a physician, but after his return from World War I, he no longer maintained a practice. In 1940, government records indicate he was the Vice-President for the San Marco Company Ltd. The Secretary-Treasurer of the company was Fiore Annibale Battigalli (also interned). He was also involved with the Italian Chamber of Commerce and the AngloItalian Felt Company Ltd., later known as the Hubbard Felt Company. He was well acquainted with its manager Regolo Gagliacco (also interned).

Restaldi was actively involved with the Italian fascist government, serving as the honourary vice-counsel for Italy in Montreal. At some point, he was awarded the distinction cavaliere (an order of the knighthood). In 1936, Restaldi was the Delegate-general of the Italian Red Cross and was active in the collection of gold from the Montreal community. Sources indicate this money went to support the Italian war effort in Ethiopia. Among his possessions seized by the police was a framed picture of Benito Mussolini.

Soon after the declaration of war by Italy, Restaldi was confined to his home by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and then interned. He was first held at a facility in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and was soon moved to Camp Petawawa.

Restaldi is described (although not named) by fellow-internee Mario Duliani in his book The City Without Women as broad-shouldered, slightly stooped, grey-eyed and bearded. A great lover of horse-races, he had a confident walk and expressive face. Duliani claims that Restaldi found camp life difficult.

While interned, Restaldi corresponded with his stepdaughter Andrea Noel Bailet. In her early letters Andrea expressed concern for Restaldi. On his behalf, she claimed to have written Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King and met with Secretary of the State Pierre-François Casgrain. Later letters focused on an evolving dispute over Restaldi’s assets. He was clearly upset by Andrea’s claims to some of the materials, which he noted were part of his late wife’s bequest to him. Among the items, there was the painting “Study of a female head” by Marc-Aurèle de Foy Suzor-Coté, said to be a portrait of Restaldi’s late wife and Andrea’s mother. Andrea died in March 1942, while Restaldi was still interned. Her widower Xavier Bailet continued the case, eventually setting with Restaldi.

Discussions and hearings leading to Restaldi’s release are not known. In his approval, Louis St. Laurent, Minister of Justice wrote:

I am satisfied that Vittorio Vincenzo Restaldi (your file – 40 D 269-4-D-129) presently detained under regulation 21 of the [DOCR] will not be a danger to the safety of the State if released upon the conditions hereinafter referred to, and I, accordingly, direct that he be released on condition that he leave Canada for repatriation to Italy but that prior to such leaving he be allowed to spend three days in the City of Montreal, and that from the time of his release from the internment camp until he leaves Canada he be escorted by a member of the [RCMP] and kept under close supervision. (RG18 F-3 Vol 3563 Part 5)

Restaldi left Canada for Italy on May 29, 1942, via New York City. He was allowed $100 American dollars, one steamer trunk and two large suitcases. He was allowed personal effects only, and they were to be examined by the authorities prior to his departure. Restaldi wrote the Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP) from Ellis Island noting the material he did not take with him, including his old uniforms, epaulets, and medals, should be destroyed or given to his friend Miss Obalska. His silverware remained on deposit at the bank.

According to CEP files, Restaldi died shortly after his return to Italy. We know that Regolo Gagliacco visited Restaldi in Italy in late 1947/early 1948. By April 9, 1953, Restaldi was deceased. His sister Maria contacted the Canadian government to determine what remained of his assets.

Before his death, Restaldi wrote down his memories of his internment experience. The document is on file in Italian archival collections and was later published in 1976.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP): RG117, Vol 1967, File 3689.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG18, F-3, Vol 3563, Part 5.
• Mario Duliani. The City Without Women. Translated by Antonino Mazza. Oakville: Mosaic Press, 1994.
• Principe, Angelo. The Darkest Side of the Fascist Years: The Italian-Canadian Press: 1920-1942. Toronto: Guernica, 1999.

POW #: P420
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: September 25, 1943
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Savino Ricci and his wife lived at 4770 Parthenais Ave. in Montreal.

Savino’s release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) once a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Montreal without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations. 

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 703, Internee File 19709 “Savino Ricci.”

POW #: P1077
ARRESTED:
RELEASED: March 06, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN: January 20, 1899
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION: Shoemaker

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Vincenzo Ricci was born on January 20, 1899 in Civitanova del Sannio in Campobosso, Italy.   In 1940, he was living on Victoria Drive in Vancouver, BC.  There is no arrest date on file for Ricci but by July 2, 1940, he was at Petawawa Internment Camp.

Ricci was released on March 6, 1942 at 12:13 a.m. with the following release notes: “Released conditionally upon his first subscribing to the Undertaking set out in Regulation 24 of the DOCR and that he shall not reside within an area prohibited to enemy aliens. This man, therefore, proceeded to Montreal.”  As a result, upon his release, Ricci was forced to relocate:

Prior to their internment, these men [including Antonio Granieri and Olivo Marini] were included within a protected area, within which it is now prohibited that enemy aliens should reside. It will, therefore, be necessary for these men to elect another place of residence to which they may be sent upon release … it is suggested that Montreal would be a suitable place in view of the fact that both Marini[sic] and Ricci are shoemakers by trade and that the centre of the shoemaking industry is in Montreal. There is, further, a considerable Italian colony in Montreal which would, no doubt, help these men to re-establish themselves in civil occupations.
Captain H. N. Streight, Commissioner of Internment Operations, letter to Commandant, Petawawa Internment Camp, March 3, 1942

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga and Lucy Di Pietro.
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Canadian Armed Forces, RG 24, Vol. 6586, File 5-1-1.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 702, Internee File 18275 “Vincenzo Ricci.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3569, File E.

POW #: P238
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: May 07, 1941
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN: March 19, 1897
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Toronto
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Business man, owner and operator of grocery/butcher shop

RELEASE NOTES: As Riccio did not acquire naturalization until 1926, he must report to the RCMP at Toronto … immediately upon his arrival at that point, where the matter of his registration and parole, in compliance with existing regulations, will receive attention.

Giulio Riccio was born in Italy on March 19, 1897. Government records sometimes have his first name spelled as Giuliano.

Riccio arrived to Canada at some point and was naturalized in 1926. He lived at 42 Mansfield Ave. in Toronto.  His wife’s name was Filomena and they had two children. He operated a grocery and butcher shop located next door at 40 Mansfield Ave., which also had an apartment attached which he rented out. 

On June 10, 1940, Riccio was arrested and sent to Petawawa Internment Camp; his wife was also arrested for being involved in fascist activities but she was not interned. In Riccio’s absence, his wife and one daughter continued to run the family store.

Riccio was released on May 7, 1941 at 7:25 a.m.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 646, Internee File 3159 “Giuliano/Giulio Riccio.”
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 6586, File 5-1-1.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 1.
• Minister’s Orders List V1 & V3.

POW #: P1118
ARRESTED: July 22, 1940
RELEASED: November 19, 1941
NATURALIZED: June 26, 1926
BORN: December 06, 1890
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Divorced
OCCUPATION: Cook, Canadian Pacific Railway

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Angelo Rita lived at 1932 Adanac St. in Vancouver at the time of his internment. He and his wife Maria divorced at some point in the 1930s and she moved to New York state. As a result of being interned, Rita could not make Maria’s alimony payments.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) alleged that Rita was a member of the fascist group Circolo Giulio Giordani and this led to his internment.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 684, Internee File 6447 “Angelo Rita.”

POW #: P596
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: December 14, 1940
NATURALIZED: June 1924
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Labourer, Art Tile Ceramique Company

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations)

Donato Rivenna owned his home at 6715 Papineau Ave., in the village of Côte-de-la-Visitation, Montreal. He was married and had a 10-year-old son. At the time of his arrest, he had been working as a labourer – for Art Tile Ceramique Company, located at 6567 Garnier St. – for 12 years and earned a maximum weekly salary of $40. Rivenna was also a shareholder of the company. He owned 133 of the total 459 shares. The shares were valued at $100 each.

Rivenna was arrested on June 10, 1940, and interned at Camp Petawawa on July 30, 1940. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) believed he was either an active member of the fascio or a strong sympathizer of fascism.

After Rivenna’s conditional release in December 1940, new evidence surfaced against him suggesting a deeper involvement with fascism. It was apparent that he was a fiduciary in 1936-1937 in the Montcalm section of the dopolavoro, which flourished under his leadership. “It is now known that only full-fledged fascists, possessing a maximum of zeal and devotion to the cause, were appointed as fiduciaries of the Dopolavoro sections” (RCMP: RG 18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 3).

Articles published in L’Italia in 1936 provide evidence that Rivenna was a strong supporter of the fascio, fascist schools and organizations, the dopolavoro and the Casa d’Italia. The articles indicate that he was closely associated with the Italian consul and other fascist leaders. 

Giuseppe Colomeo, a fellow internee, stated: “I know Donato Rivenna since about 10 to 12 years. I know personally that he has been fiduciary of the Dopolavoro in the Montcalm section. For an individual to be appointed as fiduciary, he must be active in the organization concerned. I have been interned on June 10, 1940, and released on January 27, 1941… I have been surprised to see that Donato Rivenna and Gennaro Esposito have been released after having been so active.” Furthermore, several members of Montreal’s Italian community reacted to Rivenna’s early release. Dr. Laura D’Anna noted that Donato Rivenna was “one of the outstanding members of the fascio and Dopolavoro of Montcalm. This man was practically responsible for the organizing of the fascist movement in that district. For many years he was also the fiduciary of that dopolavoro. Dopolavoro is synonymous with fascism.” There was a request for Rivenna’s re-internment, but there is no evidence that this occurred.

During Rivenna’s internment, his employer paid Mrs. Rivenna $20 per week, which then went towards Rivenna’s outstanding debt of $2000. In addition, Mrs. Rivenna received $96 a month from renters of four properties that she and her husband owned. One of these renters was Rivenna’s fellow internee, Reverend Domenico Scalera. Records show that Mrs. Rivenna was able to take care of herself and her son, and that she paid the bills regarding mortgage, insurance, and taxes.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Canadian Armed Forces, RG 24, Vol. 6586, File 5-1-1.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 1.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 665,
• Internee File 4730, “Denata [sic] Rivenna.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, F-3, Vol. 3563, Part 3.

POW #: P1157
ARRESTED: October 04, 1940
RELEASED: September 02, 1941
NATURALIZED: June 01, 1928
BORN: September 10, 1894
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Madrid
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Section foreman, Canadian Pacific Railway

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations)

Carlo (Charles) Roggiani was Saskatchewan’s only Italian Canadian internee. He came to Canada in 1910 and began working for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). Roggiani returned to Italy to serve in World War I and made his way back to Canada to resume his work with the CPR as a section foreman. 

Roggiani was fined $25 prior to being interned for anti-British comments he was alleged to have made. These comments in addition to Roggiani’s knowledge of railway maintenance and CPR operations were used to justify his internment.

At the time of his arrest he was married and had three children.

Politically, Roggiani appears to have been an antifascist. Peter Krawchuk, a member of the Communist Party of Canada and an internee at the Kananaskis Internment Camp, wrote that “Roggiani was a fervent antifascist and the entire time [in camp] supported our group [the antifascist communists]. He had been arrested on a false accusation that he had been spreading fascist propaganda.”

After Roggiani’s release he and his family lived at 427 Dewdney Ave. in Regina.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Krawchuk, Peter. Interned Without Cause: The Internment of Canadian Anti-Fascists during World War Two. Toronto: Kobzar Publishing, 1985.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 687, Internee File 6858 “Carlo Roggiani.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, File C-11-19-2-3 Part 1, Letter from Norman A. Robertson, Chair of the Inter-Departmental Committee to Ernest Lapointe, Minister of Justice, 4 Oct. 1940.

POW #: P917
ARRESTED:
RELEASED:
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S):
TOWN/CITY:
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION:

Very little information exists on Eugenio Roiz. What is known comes from a letter he wrote to Clementina Sauro, the wife of internee Libero Sauro. According to Roiz, his internment was based on allegations that he made fascist speeches at various Order Sons of Italy lodges. When questioned in camp by Judge Fortier, a judge appointed to review the cases of internees, Roiz wrote that he tried “to be truthful and spared nobody.”  He seems to suggest with some irony that those responsible are his “dear friends” Camillo Vetere of Montreal, a known fascist who later turned informant, and Toronto’s Orlando Zaganelli, a teacher at a local Italian school who was detained on June 10, 1940, but released. Toronto antifascists suspected that Zaganelli was an active fascist.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Article in NOW , antifascist newspaper. Courtesy of Windsor’s Community Museum.
• Letter from Eugenio Roiz to Clementina Sauro, 22 Dec. 1940. ICEA2010.0005.0006, Columbus Centre Collection.

POW #: P734
ARRESTED: June 20, 1940
RELEASED: May 26, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Hamilton
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Operated taxi business

RELEASE NOTES: Had to report monthly to RCMP

Gaetano Romanelli was married to Maria and the couple had two children: Russell (b. 1919) and a daughter, name unknown (b. 1936). The Romanellis lived at 427 Ferguson Ave. in Hamilton. In addition to their house, Gaetano and Maria owned properties on Ferry St. East and McCaul St. West. While Romanelli was interned, Maria and Russell carried on with the taxi business. After Romanelli was released from the Petawawa Interment Camp, he tried to sell the Ferry St. East property.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCE:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 671, Internee File 5055 “Gaetano Romanelli.”

POW #: P407
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: September 25, 1943
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN: March 08, 1887
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Publisher, L’Italia Nuova

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Giulio Romano was married to Jeanne Simard and the couple had three sons: John, Mario (b. 1916) and another whose name is not known. Giulio and Jeanne lived at 2151 Dorchester St. West in Montreal and it is unclear whether any of their sons lived with them.

Romano was a musician who went into business for himself. He had three companies registered in his name: Sleepex, Italo-Canadian Press and Canadian National Broadcasting. Because he was unable to give all three businesses his complete attention, Romano hired Jeanne Girard, a pianist in his orchestra, to run Sleepex and act as the bookkeeper for this company and the others. He owned the rights to B-Ri-O, some form of pharmaceutical likely sold through Sleepex. Romano’s son Mario worked for Sleepex while the third son was employed at the Italo-Canadian Press. John Romano ran a restaurant and farm in Rougemont, Quebec, called La Petite Normandie.

The Italo-Canadian Press was the publisher of the Italian-language fascist newspaper L’Italia Nuovo. The offices of the newspaper were in the same building as the Italian Consul (1410 Stanley St.) but the printing press was located at 729 St. James St. West. After Romano was arrested, the offices were padlocked and the presses remained idle for eight months. In the summer of 1941, the St. James Street West location was damaged by a fire.

On August 11, 1937, Romano was elected to the Casa d’Italia board of directors as an advisor.

Romano’s release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) once a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Montreal without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations.      

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 644, Internee File 3091 “Giulio Romano.”
• Library and Archives Canada, CSIS: RG 146, Vol. 97, File AH-1999/00227, RCMP, “The Organization and Activities of the Italian Fascist Party in Canada,” Ottawa, 1937.

POW #: K562
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: July 08, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN: August 05, 1903
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Trail
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Conditionally – undertaking Reg 24 DOCR and had to report once a month to Vancouver RCMP (or wherever ordered to report)

Silvio Romano was born on August 5, 1903 in Italy. He may have operated a show business although details are unknown. He was arrested on June 10, 1940 and interned for about two years at Camps Kananaskis and Petawawa. Nothing else is known of him.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga

SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 685, Internee File 6478, “Silvio Romano.”
• Minister’s Orders List V1 & V6.

POW #:
ARRESTED: June 20, 1940
RELEASED: July 21, 1942
NATURALIZED:
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Niagara Region
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION:

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Very little is known about Vincenzo Romano. He was alleged to have connections with Hamilton’s notorious criminal Rocco Perri.

Romano’s conditions of release included monthly reports to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and receiving permission from authorities before changing addresses or leaving Niagara Falls.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, File C-11-19-2-3 Part 6, Letter from Louis St. Laurent, Minister of Justice, to S.T. Wood, RCMP Commissioner, 21 July 1942.
• Principe, Angelo. “A Tangled Not: Prelude to 10 June 1940,” Enemies Within: Italian and Other Internees in Canada and Abroad, eds. Franca Iacovetta, Roberto Perin, and Angelo Principe (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2000) 45.

POW #: P290
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: July 18, 1941
NATURALIZED:
BORN: June 18, 1910
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Hamilton
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Salesman, Cosgrave Brewing Company

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release upon undertaking Regulation 24 (Defence of Canada Regulations)

There is very little information known about Samuel (Sam) Romeo. At the time of his arrest, he was married and had one child. His name appears on the spring 1940 government list of “important members of the fascio not naturalized whose internment is recommended.” He was interned at Camp Petawawa on his thirtieth birthday. The Custodian of Enemy Property maintained a file on this individual.

Some of the Italian Canadian internees may have been interned because of their criminal activities. Romeo may have been connected to the mob. He was the cousin of Rocco Perri (also interned), “Canada’s King of the Bootleggers” and one of the most prominent mob bosses in Canadian history.

The reasons for his release are not available. Other biographical information is lacking.

Biography by Lucy Di Pietro
 

Do you know…
What was Romeo’s relationship to Perri and the mob?
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 653, Internee File 3643, “Samuel (Sam) Romeo.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, C11-19-2-3-pt 4.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3569, File E.

POW #: P975
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: May 03, 1943
NATURALIZED:
BORN: October 01, 1943
DIED:

CAMP(S): Petawawa, Fredericton
TOWN/CITY: Montreal
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION: Carpenter

RELEASE NOTES: Released conditionally upon his subscribing to the Undertaking set out in Regulation 24 of the Defence of Canada Regulations (DOCR).

Ubaldo Rosati was born on October 1, 1902 in Acquasanta, Italy.  He arrived in Canada on January 23, 1927 via Halifax. 

At the time of his arrest, Rosati lived on Walnut Street in Montreal, QC. He was single and he was not naturalized. Rosati was interned until May 3, 1943 first at Camp Petawawa and then at Camp Ripples.

Rosati was considered dangerous and a menace to Canada’s state of security.  He was an alleged member the dopolavoro and he was the fiduciary of the St. Henry branch of the fascio. Evidence to support this included two photos of Rosati with the Montreal fascio, which included the most violent, faithful, and ardent fascists.  Moreover, in L’Italia (issue September 1938) and in L’Italia Nuova (issues January 1939; April 1940), Rosati was listed as a member of the fascio.  Rosati was even recognized on several occasions by the Italian Consul for his work in the fascist cause, and received a medal for his contribution.

In 1983, 81-year-old Rosati was still living in Montreal, in the neighbourhood of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce.  He talked of the day that he was arrested and how he spent six months at the Bordeaux Jail (Note: Government records show a four months time difference between his arrest date of June 10, 1940 and his arrival date at Camp Petawawa on October 24, 1940.)  Rosati noted that he had some souvenirs: some photos and a wooden coffee tray that he made at Petawawa. 

Rosati contested that the St. Henri branch of the fascio did not have black shirts and that the group met at a “small apartment” where they “played cards, organized a baseball team for youths, and held a dance once a month.”  Their only political activity was “to shout ‘Viva Mussolini!’ and that was about it.”

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga
 
SOURCES:

• Kilbertus, Paul.  “Italian-Montrealers recall how they went to ‘camp’.” The Gazette. May 18, 1983, I-4.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117, Vol. 700, Internee File 16499 “Ubaldo Rosati.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, Part 2.
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3569, File E.

POW #: P1117
ARRESTED: July 29, 1940
RELEASED: December 12, 1941
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN: April 16, 1900
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Married
OCCUPATION: Tailor

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

Angelo (John B.) Ruocco was married to Helen and the couple lived at Suite 2C-2307 West 41st Ave. in Vancouver prior to Ruocco’s internment. He had shares in Model Oils, Columbia Oils Limited and Calona Wines Limited. Ruocco was a member of the fascist group Circolo Giulio Giordani.

According to a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report:

On June 11th, 1940, the day after Italy entered the war, [Ruocco] transferred $4500.00 from his account at the Bank of Montreal to his wife’s account with the Bank of Commerce. Quite a number of the Vancouver Fascio had been arrested on June 10th, 1940, and the subject, according to confidential but reliable information, anticipated he would be arrested and so made the money transfer to his wife as stated. His arrest did not occur … until July 29th, 1940. Of the $4500.00 he transferred to the account of his wife, Helen Ruocco, the balance now stands at some $4227.00.

Ruocco’s release conditions were as follows: he had to report to the RCMP once a month; he could not change his place of residence or leave Vancouver without the consent of the RCMP; and he was forbidden any involvement in fascist activities or organizations.

After being released from Petawawa Internment Camp, Ruocco lived at 2770 Hemlock St.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk

Do you know…
If Ruocco was related to brothers, William G. Ruocco and Pietro Ruocco?

SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 2116, Internee File 8336 “Angelo Ruocco.”

POW #: K336
ARRESTED: June 10, 1940
RELEASED: August 02, 1940
NATURALIZED: Yes
BORN:
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION: Barber

RELEASE NOTES: Unconditional release

Pietro Ruocco lived at 1894 East 11th Ave. in Vancouver. There is no record of Ruocco’s wife but he did have a son named Silvio (b. April 29, 1918, in Vancouver).

Ruocco had been a member of Circolo Giulio Giordani since the organization’s formation around 1927. He left in 1932 after Piero Orsatti became the group’s new secretary and began to move the organization into an active fascist political force. The secretary of Circolo Giulio Giordani, Gregorio Fuoco (also interned), stated in a sworn declaration that Ruocco had not been a member of the group since the early 1930s. Ruocco’s internment may have been in part due to his brother William Ruocco’s (also interned) own fascist views. As a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report stated:

‘E’ Division advises that the error giving rise to this man’s [Ruocco] internment, was made in compiling the subject’s Personal History Form. His brother, William G. RUOCCO, is a staunch member of the Vancouver Fascio and this relationship may have led to some confusion.

As a result, the RCMP recommended Ruocco’s immediate release.

Biography by Travis Tomchuk
 
SOURCES:

• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG 117, Vol. 674, Internee File 5305 “Pietro Ruocco.”
• Library and Archives Canada, RCMP: RG 18, Vol. 3563, File C-11-19-2-3 Part 1, Letter from Norman A. Robertson, Chair of the Inter-Departmental Committee, to Ernest Lapointe, Minister of Justice, 25 July 1940.

POW #: P1081
ARRESTED: June 20, 1940
RELEASED: December 13, 1941
NATURALIZED:
BORN: March 28, 1889
DIED:

CAMP(S): Kananaskis, Petawawa
TOWN/CITY: Vancouver
MARITAL STATUS: Unknown
OCCUPATION: Business man, hotel owner and manager of Europe Hotel

RELEASE NOTES: Conditional release (see below)

William G. Ruocco was born in Castelgrande, Italy on March 28, 1889.  At some point, he  moved to Canada.

At the time of his arrest, he had two sons, Angelo (Andy) S. and Raymond V., and a daughter, Gloria J.  He lived in the Europe Hotel on Powell St. in Vancouver, BC where he owned 50% of the business and was Acting Manager.  Ruocco also held three life insurance policies with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., totaling $11, 000.  He held shares in the following:

• 2000 shares in Sandstorm-Kendall Cons.
• 1000 shares in Noble Five Mines Ltd.
• 500 shares in Europe hotel
• 500 shares in Minto Gold Mines Ltd. of BC
• 500 shares in Goldfield Deep Mines co. of Nevada, USA
• 250 shares in Transamerica Corp.
• 25 shares in Bank of America National Trust & Savings Corps.
• 5 shares in Bancamerica – Blair Corp.

On June 20, 1940, Ruocco was arrested and sent to Camp Kananaskis.  Rucco’s brother, Pietro Ruocco, was mistakenly interned. A Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report stated:  “‘E’ Division advises that the error giving rise to this man’s [Pietro Ruocco’s] internment, was made in compiling the subject’s Personal History Form. His brother, William G. RUOCCO, is a staunch member of the Vancouver Fascio and this relationship may have led to some confusion.”

During Ruocco’s internment, his son, Andy, carried out the daily operations of the hotel business.  Further, Andy helped his father with the handling of legal affairs in which Ruocco was the executor for, in the estates of Joe Calori, Angelo Calori, and Teresa Calori.  Ennio Vittorio (Victor) Fabri was the named solicitor for these cases.  In August of 1941, Ruocco was advised by the Custodian in August of 1941, that he could no longer act as executor.

Ruocco was released from Camp Petawawa on December 13, 1941 at 1:12 a.m. S.T. with the following notes:  “Released conditionally upon his first subscribing to the undertaking set out in Regulations 24 of the Defence of Canada Regulations, and further, that he report once monthly to the Officer Commanding, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Vancouver, BC”

In a memorandum dated January 16, 1942, a recommendation was made for the return of shares to Ruocco as the $54.40 administration fee owed to the Custodian was settled.

Biography by Louanne Aspillaga

Do you know…
If Ruocco was also related to Angelo (John B.) Ruocco?

SOURCES:

• Minister’s Orders List, V1 & V5.
• Library and Archives Canada, Canadian Armed Forces, RG 24, Vol. 6586, File 5-1-1.
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117-A-3, Vol. 691, Internee File 7800 “William G. Ruocco.”
• Library and Archives Canada, Custodian of Enemy Property: RG117-A-3, Vol. 2081, File 6846.