MIRABELLI, Maria - March 11, 1926 - June 6, 2020 - It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Maria Mirabelli (nee Lento), at the age of 94.
She was predeceased by her devoted loving husband, Vincenzo (2005).
She was a kind and gentle soul, whose greatest concern was for her three sons, Salvatore (Rosa), John (Rosa) and Franco (Nancy). Those who knew her, recognized she was pure of heart and soul.
Her sweet spirit will be greatly missed by her grandchildren, Louisa (Nick), Christina, Joseph, Vincent (Eva), Laura (Anthony), Melissa (James), Stephanie (Gianni), and her seven great-grandchildren, Maria, Nika, Emilia, Sofia, Stella, Selena, Adriana.
She was born in Sambiase (Lamezia Terme) in Calabria, Italy, where she met and married her jocular husband Vincenzo. Their first sons Sal and John were born in Italy, before they moved to Toronto in the 1950s to seek a better life. Her youngest son Franco was born in Toronto.
Trained as a seamstress, Maria soon found work in the Spadina manufacturing district. She loved fashion, fine fabrics and sewing beautiful garments. Her passion led her youngest son to pursue a career as a clothing designer and, with her support and help, he became one of Canada’s most prominent designers with an international career.
She will be remembered as loving caring soul, whose open heart and generosity have left a permanent mark on her family and everyone she touched. She will remain forever in our hearts.
Due to the covid-19 pandemic protocol, there will be no visitation services or visitors invited to the funeral or interment. A private family service will be available via Zoom through the Bernardo Funeral Home, Dufferin Chapel, Toronto. on Tuesday, June 9, at 1 p.m. She will be interred at Toronto. A memorial mass will be planned for a later date.
The family requests no flowers. In lieu, donations to the Villa Colombo Ladies Auxiliary would be greatly appreciated.
The family would like to thank the dedicated staff at Villa Colombo who took such wonderful care of Maria for the past 12 years.
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