Councillor Morelli laid to rest

Long time Hamilton City Councillor Bernie Morelli was laid to rest Monday.

There was seating for 800. It was overflowing. Probably 1,000 in attendance

Morelli died last Tuesday night at age 70 after a long illness.

Bernie Morelli left his final Catholic mass surrounded by family and friends including fellow councillors Sam Merulla and Chad Collins, pallbearers who felt like sons, and biological son Mark Morelli, a police officer whose peers were there en masse both to support him, and mourn the long time police board chair.

Deputy Chief Ken Leendertse, Hamilton Police: “He’s always got the answers when you need them, great guidance, great wisdom. Certainly going to be missed by the police service.”

The anguish felt by current members of council was obvious.

Brad Clark, Hamilton City Councillor: Just miss him.

Russ Powers, City Councillor: I’ve known Bernie for 20 years. We’ve shared family thoughts, we’ve shared our communties. It’s a major loss to the community and for me the loss of a really good friend. (Brad: “like a father.” Russ: “yeah.”)

Councillor Maria Pearson: “The good times we had, and even being with him through his difficult times, and respecting that. That’s what we all will leave here remembering.”

The Mayor brought the book of condolences, filled by well wishers at city hall, to hand to the Morelli family: What I said was, we close an historic chapter in the story of Hamilton. Rest in Peace Councillor Morelli in the knowledge of all you have given.”

Father Peter Ciallella said in his homily that Morelli often said,”If you’re not living on the edge, then you’re wasting space.” He said Morelli lived fully every day. A few months ago, the Reverend told Morelli, “Perhaps it’s time to step down and look after yourself.” Morelli gave him that famous, incredulous stare. Then said calmly” “I still feel I have something to give.”

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath: “Honestly, he had a heart of gold and a great sense of humour and a lot to give and he gave it freely. Today you saw from the amount of people here, from all walks of life, the impact he had on the community.”

Morelli was buried at the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Burlington. Councillors said he will not be replaced, he couldn’t be, and they won’t start thinking about who will next represent Ward 3 until February.