Mary Paulina Azzopardi
elevated tClcE January 27, 1927 – August 20, 2026
elevated tClcE It is with sadness the family of Mary Paulina Azzopardi (nee Vassallo) announces her peaceful passing in Mississauga at the age of 99.
elevated tClcE Born in Rabat, Malta, Mary was the fourth of seven children to Carmelo and Carmela Vassallo. As a teenager, she lived through the hardships of the Second World War in Malta, often recounting stories of seeking refuge in underground shelters during air raids. These experiences shaped the resilience and strength that would define her throughout her long life.
elevated tClcE In 1950, Mary met Paul in a garden park. After waiting four years for Paul to complete his service in the British Navy, they married and began their journey to Canada, leaving behind family and friends in search of opportunities and a brighter future.
elevated tClcE Mary and Paul settled in Toronto in the summer of 1954, where they worked hard to build a life for their families and only child, Marlene, who was born in 1956. Mary worked at Mr. Christie for over 35 years, where her stories and cookies from the production line became family favourites.
elevated tClcE Mary’s deep faith guided her throughout her life. As a parishioner of St. Patrick’s Church for 30 years, she found comfort in her faith and enjoyed the community of weekly Saturday mass.
elevated tClcE Mary found her greatest happiness in the company of family and created cherished memories across four generations. Adventurous by nature, she embraced every stage of life with enthusiasm, whether immigrating to Canada as a young woman, admiring the beauty of the Rocky Mountains at 88, or delighting in Disney World with her great-grandchildren at 94. Her work ethic, courage and sense of humour left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
elevated tClcE Mary is predeceased by her husband Paul Azzopardi. Loving mother of Marlene Romano Barton (Edward). Adored ‘Nanna’ to Julia Romano Michael (Marc), Andrew and Craig Barton and ‘Buz Nanna’ to her great-grandchildren Aliya, Adrian, Christan and Julian.
elevated tClcE The family extends heartfelt thanks to the exceptional care workers for their kindness and treating Mary like their own mother over the last years of her life.
elevated tClcE In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in Mary’s name.
elevated tClcE Visitation
Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Assumption Catholic Funeral Home Chapel
6933 Tomken Rd, Mississauga, ON L5T 1N4
elevated tClcE Funeral Service
Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
Assumption Catholic Funeral Home Chapel
6933 Tomken Rd, Mississauga, ON L5T 1N4
elevated tClcE To view the funeral service, please click HERE
Entombment
Assumption Catholic Cemetery
6933 Tomken Rd, Mississauga, ON L5T 1N4
So sorry for your loss Marlene & condolences to you & the family. You all have another Angel to watch over the family. May Aunt Mary be reunited with Uncle Paul & may they rest in eternal peace.
This was a lovely written tribute to Mary. God blessed her with a wonderful full life. She was a loving Mother..Grandmother and Great Grandmother. She will be missed.
My deepest condolences, Marlene, to you and your family. Sending you a warm hug.
Marlene Barin
Our deepest sympathy Marlene, Edward, Julia, Marc, Aliya, Adrian and to
Your extended family.
“A life isn’t measured by years alone”. It is measured by the love that is given, Mary gave more than most. Mary will be remembered with deep love and affection. Love D’Uva Family
Brian and I send our deepest sympathies. So sorry for your loss.
Marlene & Family
We were so saddened to hear about your Mother/Grandmother’s passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad & difficult time. May the fond memories throughout the years comfort you.
Our love and prayers,
Mary & John
Beautiful tribute to your wonderful mother. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. God bless and may she forever rest in peace.
Marlene and Family
The obituary, eulogy and mass were a wonderful tribute to a beautiful woman. Our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Mary. Her kindness and gentle spirit will be remembered with deep affection. We wish you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
With love
Bev and Gary
Dear Marlene and family.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your mother Mary. She is now reunited with Paul in God’s Eternal Presence.
May her memory continue to shine through you forever.
Rest in Peace Mary