It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Vincenzo "Vip" Domenic Palladino at the age of 95.

Beloved husband of the late Patricia (née Villeneuve) Palladino, who predeceased him in 2014. Loving father of Vincent (wife Melissa) and Janice, who passed away in 1992. Cherished Grandpa of Brooke, Vincent, and Ella. Dear brother of Ed and Tony. Predeceased by his parents Edward and Violet Palladino, brothers Joe, Dino, and sister Elda Murphy. Fondly remembered by the extended Villeneuve and Palladino family and deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues, friends, Palladino Honda and Palladino Auto Group extended family.

Born on November 30, 1929, in Sudbury, Ontario to Edward Palladino and Violet Palladino (née Bucci), Vip eventually settled in Sudbury after an 18 year professional hockey career where he would build not only a life, but a legacy.

Vip married the love of his life, Patricia Villeneuve, in 1959 at Holy Redeemer Church. A devout Roman Catholic, he was a dedicated member of St. Patrick's Church and a man of unwavering faith. He found joy in life's simplest pleasures and richest gifts: most especially time spent with his son, grandchildren, working with his Palladino Honda team, the camaraderie of a round of golf, and countless travel adventures with Patricia at his side.

Vip Palladino was more than just a successful entrepreneur; he was a visionary who transformed Northern Ontario's automotive landscape. He began his automotive journey as a young man with a dream and relentless determination. He founded three thriving used vehicle dealerships in Sudbury, collectively known as "Vip's Car Land." But it was a five-minute test drive in the early 1970s that changed everything. That drive, in a Honda Civic, ignited a passion for Honda vehicles and led to the founding of Palladino Honda--formerly Palladino Motors--which remains a cornerstone of the Palladino Auto Group today.

Vip began his professional hockey career with the Sudbury Caruso Miners in 1951. He would go on to play for several other teams both in Canada and the US such as the SSM Indians, Charlottetown Islanders and Saint John Beavers. South of the border he would play for the Indianapolis Chiefs, Washington Presidents and his favourite team, the Philadelphia Ramblers before retiring in 1960 and beginning his automotive career. 

His charitable endeavours were also part of his legacy giving countless dollars to many local charities and St Patrick's Parish as well as global initiatives such as World Vision and the Canadian Diabetes Foundation. Vip had a soft spot for underprivileged children which carries on today in the Auto Group's continued support of the North Eastern Ontario Children's Hospital. 

Through decades of leadership, Vip set a standard of excellence that shaped an enduring family-run business. He spent 25 years as the President of Palladino Honda before handing the reigns to his son Vince. Vip and Vince worked side by side for another 25 years as the Auto Group grew into its current form today of 8 dealerships in 3 cities throughout Ontario. It was a great partnership and a truly incredible father/son relationship. Vip's work ethic, integrity, and customer-first values continue to guide Palladino Auto Group's success across Northern Ontario and beyond.

Outside the showroom, Vip's warmth and humility touched countless lives. He had a genuine gift for making people feel valued, and whether in business, family, or friendship, his kindness left a lasting impression.

The Palladino family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ravi Singh and team, Dr. Tom Crichton and team, the Acute Recovery Care Centre, the Emergency Department staff and the 8th Floor at Health Sciences North. As well as caregivers Marissa Holla, Patricia Rondina, and the Infinity Care Team for their exceptional compassion and loving care.

Vip Palladino's legacy is one of family, faith, and an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit. His presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.