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 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com