Giovanna Rzeznik

Peacefully, surrounded by loving family June 25, 2026, at Caressant Care Nursing Home in St. Thomas, Giovanna passed away at the age of 77. Beloved wife of Jan Rzeznik. Loving mother of her cherished daughter Zofia and a dear mother-in-law to Shane. Cherished grandmother of Arya, Zachary and Emma. Treasured sister of Franco Petrilli. Giovanna will be dearly missed by many cousins in Sarnia, Windsor, and Italy. Predeceased by her parents Onorio and Maria Petrilli. Giovanna was a woman of boundless warmth and a truly kind heart. To know her was to feel welcomed, cared for, and deeply loved. She dedicated her life to lifting up those around her, always the first to offer a helping hand or a comforting word. An active and vibrant soul, Giovanna brought energy and devotion to everything she touched.

Giovanna Rzeznik was a proud and dedicated member of the Dante Club Women’s Association and the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) at St. Peter’s Church, where her faith and community spirit shone brightly. Whether she was tending to her beautiful garden or filling her home with the comforting aromas of her baking and cooking, Giovanna found joy in the simple, beautiful moments of life. Above all, Giovanna’s greatest passion was her people. She cherished nothing more than visiting with family and friends, always eager to share a laugh, a story, or a home-cooked meal.

Though she spent most of her beautiful life building memories in Sarnia, she recently relocated to St. Thomas—a move driven by her deepest devotion: to be closer to her cherished family and grandchildren. Of all the titles she held throughout her life, the one she wore with the absolute most pride and joy was “Nonna.” Her legacy of love, generosity, and community will live on in the hearts of everyone who was blessed to know her. She will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

Family and friends will be received at SFH- McKenzie and Blundy Chapel, 431 Christina St N., on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with prayers at 6:45 p.m. A Mass of a Christian burial will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Entombment to follow at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to The Heart and Stroke Foundation (cheques only at the funeral home please).