PILEGGI, Gioconda Assunta Pileggi

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother and grandmother, also known as Jackie to her many friends.

Born in Curinga, Italy to parents Antonio and Giovanna DeSumma, married to Arcangelo Pileggi on February 16, 1950, immigrated to Canada in 1951 and became a proud Canadian on August 12, 1957.

Predeceased by her parents, her husband of 59 years, brother Phillip, brother Elio and wife Letizia DeSumma, sister and husband Maria and Rudolph Bartoch and their two sons Tony and Paul and her nephew Tony DeSumma.

“She gave us the best of her love and taught us how to walk through life with kindness”

Loving mother of Lisa (Bill) Vollmar, Joanne (Malcolm) McLaren, Peter (Darlene) Pileggi, and Tony (Lorraine) Pileggi.

“A gentle soul, a fierce protector and the anchor of our family”.

Proud grandmother of Bill (Sandy), Tim (Janie), Shaun (Karen), Chris (Megan), Jessica (Arjun), Alyssa (Clay), and Kenzie (Jake).

Great Grandmother to Ivy, Brendan, Jack, Kendall, Nash, Riley and Reese.

Also, fondly remembered by Darlene’s son’s and their families.

Gioconda Assunta Pileggi will also be missed by her extended family in Canada, Italy and the US.

“Her hands were always busy, her heart always open and her love endless”.

Her kindness extended far beyond the home and workplaces.  She belonged to several charitable organizations during her life.  When she could no longer work, she crocheted hundreds of hats for cancer patients and new babies.  Her passion for food and cooking was only surpassed by the love for her family and God.

The family would like to extend special gratitude to her many friends and family who over the years kept her life full.  Also, to the following for the care and support during her illness:  Sandra Griffin, Drs. Muia, Kovak, Tam, Wlodarczyk; St. Gregory’s Church in Cambridge – Maria and Father Gonzales, as well as the Legion of Mary; St. Mary’s Church in London – Maria Michienzi and John Mancari as well as Father Peter and Bishop Joseph who have moved to the Diocese of Hamilton; to the amazing nurses of Cabral Unit and staff at Stirling Heights LTC, LHIN, VON in London, Emily Garner of WRHN, Paramed in Cambridge and the care team and staff at Queen’s Square; and to Kitty and Hahn from Residenzia Italia.

Visitation will be held at the Donahue Funeral Home, on  Sunday, August 16th from 2-4p.m.and 6-9p.m. Funeral Service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Monday August 17th at 10a.m., followed by entombment at St. Peter’s Cemetery.  Family and friends are welcome back to the Church Hall after for refreshments.