Maria Lotta

Maria Lotta, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, in Barrie, Ontario, surrounded by the warmth of her loving family. Born on December 25, 1931, in Sicily, Italy, Maria's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of love, laughter, culinary delights.

Throughout her life, Maria brought joy to those around her with her sense of humour and a joyful spirit that could brighten the darkest of days. Her laughter echoed through her home, creating an atmosphere that welcomed all. A passionate cook, she was known for her amazing culinary talents, bringing friends and family together around the dining table to enjoy delightful meals created with love. Her cooking was not just about nourishing the body, but about nurturing the soul, creating bonds and memories over shared dishes.

Maria's interests were as varied as her talents. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was indulging in a crisp McDonald's french fries, engaging in bingo scratch cards and playing cards, or tending to her lovely garden where flowers bloomed as vibrantly as her personality. Each pursuit revealed another facet of her joyous character, and she shared these passions with those she loved.

She leaves behind her adoring children, Pietra (Lio), Francesco (Maria), Tommasa (the late Carmine), Anna (Linton), Giuseppina (Shawn) and Roberto (Antonietta), who remember her not only for her culinary prowess but also for the lessons she imparted and the love she showered upon them unconditionally. Proud Nonna to Anthony (Catherine), Joseph (Andrea), Sofia (Tyler), Giuseppe (Genevieve), Julia (Joseph), Melyssa, Kristian, Lorenzo (Isabella), Selena (Lucas), Maria, Giuseppe and Gianna. Loving Bisnonna to Luca, Matao, Alexander, Jack, Soleil, Nina, Theo, Roman, Dario. They will forever cherish the warmth of her smile, the sound of her laughter, and the moments spent in her embrace.

Maria is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Giuseppe, who predeceased her. Their love story was one for the ages, filled with respect, admiration, and unwavering support, and her family takes solace in knowing that they are together again.

She cherished her morning phone calls with her neighbor, Senora Teresa and from her children where she would always ask them at the end of their conversation... “Mangiasti?”

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Maria’s extraordinary life on September 9, 2024. Visitation will take place from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Westminster Funeral & Reception Centre in Toronto, followed by a Funeral Service from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM. The interment will follow at Westminster Cemetery & Mausoleum at 12:45 PM.

Though Maria has departed from this world, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and culinary art will continue to be a guiding light in the lives of her family. Rest in peace, dear Maria; you will be missed more than words can express.