elevated RA0cz July 4, 1937 ~ September 3, 2026

elevated RA0cz Visitation
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00pm  
Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home
7300 Highway 27, Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 1A5

elevated RA0cz Funeral Mass
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery
7300 Highway 27, Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 1A5 

elevated RA0cz Entombment
Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery
7300 Highway 27, Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 1A5

elevated RA0cz Memorial Donation
Heart and Stroke Foundation

elevated RA0cz Obituary

elevated RA0cz “Le madri prendono per mano I figli per un breve periodo, ma i loro cuori per sempre”

elevated RA0cz It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Funaro on September 3, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario, at the age of 89. Born on July 4, 1937, in the hilltop town of Frigento, Italy, Maria’s life was defined by an unwavering devotion to her family and a heart full of unconditional love.

elevated RA0cz Predeceased by her devoted husband of 58 years, Nicola (2021). Loving mother of Lidia (Domenic) and John. Fiercely proud and adoring Nonna to Daniel and Cristian, who brought immense joy to her life. She is survived by five siblings, Pasquale (Monica), Michele, Caterina (Pasqualino), Elio (Isabella), and Silvia (Silvio) who, alongside an extended circle of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, will lovingly remember her.

elevated RA0cz Maria immigrated to Canada as a teenager in the late 1950s in pursuit of a better life. She settled with her family in Toronto and soon began perfecting skills as a seamstress in a local workshop. She became exceptionally talented at her craft over the years and gave her time freely, often called upon by family and friends to mend a hem, resize a garment or sew a tailored suit. In 1962, she met her soulmate. A casual introduction by a family friend quickly blossomed into marriage – an unbreakable bond that became the steady anchor and cornerstone of a dedicated family life.

elevated RA0cz Maria’s world revolved around her home and her family. Her greatest joy came from nurturing those around her, especially her adoring grandchildren. To them, she wasn’t just a grandmother; she was a keeper of secrets, a baker of treats, a source of endless hugs, and a safe harbor in a big world.

elevated RA0cz Her days were often filled with cooking favourite meals, baking traditional Italian sweets, tending to her vegetable garden and rose bushes (her favourite!), and in later years, babysitting. Maria poured her heart into her passions; spending countless hours sewing, knitting beautiful pieces, and keeping traditions alive that preserved a lifelong connection to her Italian roots and heritage.

elevated RA0cz Whether she was gathering everyone around the dinner table, offering a listening ear, or celebrating life’s special moments, her love was the pillar of our family. Strong in her faith, she taught us how to care for one another, how to be patient, how to forgive, and how to love without limits. Though she will be deeply missed, her gentle soul, caring nature, and kind spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Peacefully reunited with her beloved husband, she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. A legacy which lives on in the warmth of the memories we share.

elevated RA0cz In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Maria Funaro to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada