Maria DeGirolamo
Maria DeGirolamo (née: Defeo) entered the Kingdom of Heaven on Sunday, August 11th, 2024. She was 78 years old when she succumbed to a brief battle with cancer. She passed away with peace in her heart knowing her life and legacy of family, faith (and food) was fulfilled. At all times, she was surrounded by her adoring family including her husband of 58 years, Antonio – the two of which were inseparable; her children of whom she cherished, Lucia (Ken), Carmelina (Rob), and Tony (Chantal); as well as her 4 grandchildren who were her world: David, Jasmine (Tyler), Justine, and Michael, all of whom were heartbroken. Still, as a family, we were able to carry each other’s burdens, turn our pain into sorrow, our sorrow into peace, our peace into joy as we leaned into God and each other for comfort. Together, we are able to celebrate Maria’s wonderful life.
“There is no fear in Love.” 1 John 4:18
Maria was born December 5th, 1945, in Santo Stefano del Sole, Italy. At the age of 19, Maria was swept off her feet by the dashing young Antonio, who was already living in Canada but had returned to Italy to find a bride. Weeks later, and speaking no English, young Maria made the solo journey to Canada as a bride. First flying to Montreal then taking a marathon bus ride through Winnipeg, across the barren prairies, and finally to frigid Moose Jaw where she arrived in her high heels to a foot of snow, at which point Maria questioned just how dashing Antonio really was. Regardless, a love story ensued. Maria and Antonio lived, worked, and of course raised their family, side by side for the rest of their lives. In the 1970’s, with their children in tow, they worked multiple jobs to provide for their family. This incredible work ethic later allowed them to build their own beautiful home on Calypso Drive. They even retired together while both were working at St. Margaret’s School.
Although tiny in stature, Maria’s presence filled the room with her boundless energy, bright eyes, and benevolent spirit. Family, friends, and even strangers were always welcomed in her home with homemade lasagna, pizza, bread, wine, and a tour of her beautiful garden. La mia casa, e la tua casa. We were all blessed to sit at her table. Ti amiamo, Maria! Now, you shall be in God’s house, admiring God’s Garden, which is Paradise.
Flowers wither away but memories around a table last forever. It would make her heart happy to know that you gather with your loved ones, enjoying a pizza and a glass of wine, to toast her blessed life.
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Psalm 73:26
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 16th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 1064 3rd Ave NW, Moose Jaw, SK with Father Bert Lillo as the presiding celebrant. Pastor Dave Heslje will officiate a private family interment which will take place in Elbow Cemetery at Elbow, SK. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Dear Tony and family,
HEAVEN GAINED AN ANGEL TODAY,
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR THIS SAD NEWS,
SENDING MY CONDOLENCES TO ALL HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS
MARIA WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH.
Sending my deepest sympathies to Tony and family. Lots of great memories and conversations were had with Tony and Maria when we worked together at St. Margaret’s and then whenever we met up on the street or at a store once they retired. One learnt real quick when Maria told you clean off your desk or a table or she would do it as she meant every word! Unbelievable pride and work ethic that was never to be seen again. RIP Maria until we meet again.
Tony, Lucy, Carmelina, Tonino and families. Sending you all big hugs and lots of love. I’m so sorry to hear of Maria’s passing. I remember many of visits and feasts with the family. May the memories of your mom, wife and Nonna help in comforting your loss. Sending lots of love. She will truly be missed.
My deepest sympathy to Toni and children and my prayers to Maria , rest in peace my friend. Will be missing our coffee time. ❤️❤️❤️
Our sincere thoughts and prayers to the family. We are sorry to hear about Maria. We know she will be terribly missed. She always had a smile and a kind word. Let all your memories give you strength in days ahead.
Condolences, Bill and Marjorie Yakiwchuk
Dear Lucy and families…
I am sorry to hear about the passing of your wife, mom and grandma. I remember the days when Lucy and I hung out …Maria was so full of life and energy and her personality would light up the room!!! Your mom and dad were the cutest little ‘dynamic duo’. I always felt so welcome at her home . Cherish the wonderful memories , share them often and hold them close to your hearts. Maria was a little sweetheart and a gem of a lady with a big smile. Hugs and sincere condolences! Leslie MacDonald
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Tony and family at this time. You had a lovely mother, she always had time to stop for a chat and a friendly smile. God bless your family
Lucy, Ken and family, We are sorry to hear about your mom. Our deepest sympathy