FELICE, Maria Felice

Passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the Marotta Family Hospital at the age of 82. Beloved wife for 59 years of Francesco. Loving mother of the late Mike (1989) and Andy. Adored nonna of Michaela and Luca. Cherished sister of Libera (late Giovanni) and Giovannina (late Angelo). Predeceased by her siblings Maria Antonia (late Francesco), Nicola and Tommaso (late Pasqualina). Dear sister-in-law of Antonietta (late Nicola), Caterina (late Biaggio), Giovanni (Gina) and Angelina (late Vincenzo). Predeceased by sister-in-law Filomena (Cosimo) and brothers-in-law Biaggio and Vincenzo. Devoted Zia and Godmother, and treasured friend to many.

Maria was born in Cercemaggiore, CB. She immigrated to Canada in 1966 where she began the next chapter of her life in St. Catharines, Ontario. Maria will be lovingly remembered for her warm heart and for the effortless way she made everyone feel at home. Her gracious and hospitable nature was matched only by her passion and talent for cooking and baking – gifts she joyfully shared with all who gathered around her table. Whether it was a comforting pasta dish, delicious biscotti, or one of her many crafty culinary creations, Maria poured love into every dish.

Some of her most cherished moments were those spent surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories and laughter over a home-cooked meal. Her kitchen was the heart of the home – a place where smiles were always plentiful and where her grandchildren learned not just how to cook some of their favourite meals and desserts, but how food can be one of the truest expressions of love. A visit to Maria’s home meant that you were guaranteed to leave with a full stomach and a full heart.

Maria was an avid gardener who spent countless hours tending to her garden, caring for a variety of vegetables, fig trees, and the little lemon tree of which she was especially fond. Her family, her home, and her garden were the cornerstones of her life – each a reflection of her unwavering devotion and quiet strength.

Maria’s warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit touched everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held at George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, on Tuesday, July 8 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Alfred Church, 272 Vine Street, on Wednesday, July 9 at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Victoria Lawn Cemetery.

If desired, donations in Maria’s memory may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or to The Diabetes Association.

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Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at George Darte Funeral Home, St. Catharines.