Mario Dozzo.
A life well lived.

Chapter 01

Roots in Frisanco

Born on September 26, 1935, Mario grew up in Frisanco in northern Italy, the son of Alberto and Rina Dozzo.

His family’s tribute recalls a childhood shaped by the Second World War, occupation and the work of helping support his family.

Chapter 02

A new beginning in Canada

At 19, Mario left Italy for Toronto. He arrived without speaking English and turned to fellow Italians to help him find work.

A succession of jobs in construction introduced him to the industry in which he would build his career.

Chapter 03

Building across borders

Mario and three partners established Structural Formwork, Inc., a concrete construction business. It grew across Canadian provinces before expanding into the United States.

The company reached the Dallas area in the 1980s and later served the Gulf States region. Texas became an important part of Mario’s business and philanthropic story.

Chapter 04

Family at the centre

As his career developed, Mario brought his parents and a sister to Toronto. He married Marilyn Jones, who was from Jamaica, and together they raised three children.

Family life remained important alongside work. Their cottage in Orillia, Ontario, was a place for time together, boating, skiing and relaxing.

Chapter 05

A foundation for possibility

Established in Texas in 2007, The Mario Dozzo Foundation supports organisations working in education, the arts, health and community care. Its history reflects compassion for children, families and others facing difficult circumstances, alongside support for creativity and opportunity.

Chapter 06

A legacy that continues

Mario died on January 11, 2026. His family’s tribute remembers the connections he sustained across loved ones, friendships and business.

It also identifies the charitable foundation that carries his name as part of his legacy. That history provides the context for the causes and relationships shared throughout this website.