Maria Pizzi June 12, 1924 - May 1, 2024

In loving memory of Antonietta Maria Pizzi who passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024, in Princess Court, Dryden at the age of 99. She was born to Michele and Laura Carlucci on June 12, 1924, in the quaint town of Santa Maria, Del Molise, Italy.

Maria’s early years were adorned with the serenity of nature and the enchanting beauty of Italy. She carried these memories with her throughout her life, finding solace and joy in the simple wonders of the world around her.

In 1941, Maria married her beloved husband, Michele Pizzi, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that spanned over seven decades. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love, raising two children who were the center of their world.

Maria’s life was marked by her unwavering devotion to her family and her unwavering strength in the face of adversity. Her kindness, generosity, and boundless love touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.

Her journey led her to Ignace, Ontario, in 1955, where she and her husband, Michele, built a home and a life filled with love and warmth. While Michele worked for CP Rail, she devoted herself to raising their growing family, giving birth to Tony and John in her later years.

In the heart of Ignace, Maria flourished, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her passion for gardening blossomed in the fertile soil of Ontario, where she cultivated vibrant blooms, with a special fondness for carnations. She delighted in the tranquility of blueberry picking, spending countless hours amidst nature’s bounty.

Maria’s talents extended beyond the garden, as she poured her creativity into cooking, knitting, crochet, and sewing. Her kitchen was a sanctuary of delicious aromas, where she lovingly prepared meals and baked her famous biscotti. Visitors to her home were greeted with warmth and hospitality, often leaving with homemade biscotti, cozy slippers, or intricately crafted blankets, each imbued with Maria’s love and care.

Her love knew no bounds, especially when it came to her grandchildren, whom she adored with all her heart. She relished the opportunity to babysit them, filling their days with laughter, stories, and endless love. Her home was a haven for her grandchildren, a place where they felt cherished and cherished in return.

Her affection for animals, particularly cats, was evident in her home, where a furry cat friend was always by her side. She found companionship and solace in their presence, nurturing them with the same tenderness she bestowed upon her loved ones.

She is survived by her siblings Christina (Giacomo), Tony (Adelina) and Luigi. Sons Mario (Dolores) Pizzi, Tony (Amy) Pizzi, John (Charmyn) Pizzi, and daughter Dora (Brad) McKenzie. Grandchildren Michael (Kristina), Laurie (Jimmy), John (Inga), Donny (Leanne), David (Jenna), Dylan (Whitney), Lisa (Rhiannon), and Chantel (Kennedy). Brother-in-law Aldo Pinelli as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and her special friend Carmela Maurice.

Predeceased by her loving husband, Michele Pizzi, her parents Michele Carlucci and Laura Carlucci nee Notte, siblings Nick (Earnestina) Carlucci, Giovannina Pinelli, Rosa (Ottavio) Carlucci, and Carmina (Alessandro) Carlucci. Nephews John Pizzi, John Pinelli, and Mike Carlucci as well as her sisters-in-law Dora and Anna Carlucci.

We wish to thank the Ignace Health Clinic and Staff at Princess Court for the help they provided to Maria. A special thanks to Amy, Jodie, and Yvonne from the clinic and the home care workers in Ignace.