Obituary of Maria Ghirardi

Maria Ghirardi

1928 - 2020

We are sad for the loss of our mother, Maria, but take heart in knowing that she is no longer in pain or suffering from the final stages of her life.  Maria was born in the village of Andrista, township of Cevo, Province of Brescia, Lombardy, Italy, which is situated at the foot of the Alps.  Maria barely escaped Diphtheria as a girl, and was saved by the knowledge imparted by her elder sister, Giulia, who at a young age identified the possibility of this disease.  Our Grandmother, post-haste, was able to bring our mother to the local doctor for life-saving measures.  As a young woman, Maria worked in Switzerland where she met with the opportunity to move to Alberta, Canada.  As a Nurse’s Aide in Alberta, Maria’s detail in the hospital was to sterilize equipment using the autoclave and was known for excellent and quality work.  She met and married Gino Ghirardi and started her family. 

Maria leaves behind her four children and two grandchildren, who were all cherished for our qualities and contributions.  There is Henry, eldest son, Alvina, Lorena and Melissa; Ed Jones, son-in-law and grandsons Mathew and Corey, with their youth, brains and charm.  Without saying a word, we were witness to a person of exemplary virtue.  We remember:  reliability and sacrifice, joy in the simple pleasures of family, gardening and the outdoors, kindness to animals, home-cooking and morning coffee made in the stovetop espresso maker.  Maria belonged to St. Mary of the Assumption Roman Catholic Church for over 40 years.  Although visually impaired in the later years of her life, we saw mom maintain her independence for as long as possible. 

With love and gratitude, we remember our mother and Nona, Maria.  We also give special thanks to the staff, Nurses and PSWs at Heidehof Home for the Aged, who provided care and support during Maria’s residence there and during her final days.  Cremation has taken place.  The Funeral Liturgy without Mass and subsequent burial was held on Apr. 24, 2020 with The Reverend Krzysztof Szczepanik, Pastor of St. Helen Parish, Beamsville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Canadian National Institute for the Blind Foundation (CNIB)

Lincoln County Humane Society (LCHS)