Tony Cinelli was a truly kindhearted man — a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, family member and friend.

His giant smile at social gatherings created a vibrant energy. He was as welcoming to strangers as he was to our family and friends. A humble charm, quick wit, and jokester personality captured everyone’s attention. Always patient and empathetic; he took the time to be with anyone who needed companionship.

Tony attended various post-secondary schools where he gained a variety of skills that took him from the business world, to land surveying, and eventually into the trades as an electrician. Although he hadn’t attended UBC, the work HeadsUpGuys is doing in supporting men’s mental health is why we wanted to create this memorial for him.

Tony was living a mostly happy and healthy life, until 2012 when we lost him to his final battle with anxiety and depression. At the age of 43, he had been challenged by a few debilitating periods, suffering through them mostly in private. Unfortunately, this was a time where the stigma around mental illness was more prevalent, for men in particular, and there were fewer resources. His sudden loss created a deep hole in our family and we will forever miss him.

We hope that by sharing Tony’s story, other men who are struggling will feel less alone, and that the conversation around mental illness continues so we can do better as a community.

All those who knew Tony were truly gifted to have had him in their lives, and now we hope his life touches you as you think about donating to this valuable cause.

Every September, we honor Tony’s memory during Suicide Prevention month by hosting a private family and friends Bocce Tournament to raise money for mental health charities. We are happy to be contributing these funds to HeadsUpGuys currently.

We thank you for whatever it is you are able to do to contribute.

Much love and peace to you all.

In memory of Tony, all donations made here will go to support HeadsUpGuys, an online resource that supports men in their fight against depression. Your gift will pay tribute to Tony’s life and break the silence around men’s mental health, encouraging men to reach out for help. To learn more about the HeadsUpGuys program, visit https://headsupguys.org.