PERILLO, Lucia - It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our Mother, Lucia Perillo at 106 years of age on October 1st, 2020.
Mom will be deeply missed by her children John (Josie), Jerry and Rose (Ross) and her grandchildren Lucy, Rosa (Colin), Tony (Daniella), Laura (Joe), Jessica (Jordan), Ryan (Joslyn), Kristian (Irene) and several great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband Antonio Perillo, her son Vincenzo (Filomena) and her first grandson Tony (Eileen).
Mom came from a family of five children of which she was the last surviving member. She was proud of her Italian heritage and was looked upon as the keeper of the family legacy. She was born in Muro Lucano Italy on September 17th, 1914, during World War I. She often told stories of her hard work on the farm while raising her three boys.
In 1955, she immigrated to Canada, first settling in Red Lake ON where she began her employment at Red Lake Hospital. Although her English was not the best, she loved caring for the patients often bringing them Italian treats to cheer them up. She became friends with the patients offering words of encouragement and inspiration. The rumour at the hospital was that “Lucia saves lives."
Then in 1976, mom moved with her family to Toronto where she planted her roots on Cedarvale Ave along with planting her gardens, making wine and tomato jars. She became the “icon” of Cedervale Ave. She was popular throughout the local shops and businesses. She was always seen sitting on her veranda watching the community pass by. Her social interactions and offering of food and drink were symbolic to the area.
In 2018, the City of Toronto dedicated a laneway to her name. Such a proud event for our family. “Lucia Perillo Lane” creates a sense of identity and reminder that our mother is looking out for us.
Mom loved her family and cherished her grandchildren. She was the matriarch, the boss and glue of the family. Forever in our hearts. We would like to acknowledge and thank the very caring staff at Baycrest Hospital where our mother spent that past year and a half. She was a “mamma” to everyone there.
We especially want to thank Madalena who assisted and cared for Mom. She became a friend and liaison to the family for Mom’s care. She is an angel to those she cares for.
Arrangements with Trull funeral home, Toronto. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 6th at St Brigid's Church (300 Wolverleigh Blvd., Toronto) at 10 AM, with Entombment to follow at Highland Memory Garden (33 Memory Gardens).
{fastsocialshare