Assunta (Bruna) Bandiera passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, in her 100th year. Born August 31, 1926, in Vallà, Italy, Bruna was the daughter of Gesué Simeoni and Aurelia Gazzola. She later made her home in Newmarket, Ontario, and built a life defined by steady devotion to family, hard work, and the quiet strength of a woman who created something lasting from the ground up.
Bruna was the beloved wife of the late Galdino Bandiera. Encouraged by her longtime boyfriend and soon to be husband, Galdino, her journey to Canada began in April 1953—carried by hope, resolve, and dreams of a new beginning in a new land. Bruna worked outside the home for 40 years, retiring from an Alcan foil factory after 24 years, and her example of perseverance and dedication remained a guiding presence for those who knew and loved her.
Known best as Nonna Bruna, Bruna’s greatest pride was the very big, very loving family she nurtured—one that stands as her enduring legacy. Bruna will be dearly missed by her daughters, Aurelia (Alberto) and Gina; her grandchildren, Adam (Krystin), Ricky (Kari), Marisa (Barry), Shaun (Claudia), Jason (Sarah), and Ashley (Joe); and her great-grandchildren, Chloe, Dylan, Avry, Alyssa, Sebastian, Ava, Layla, Ariella, Lorenzo, Ilaria, and Larissa.
Bruna found joy in the work of her hands and the warmth of a home made welcoming through care and attention. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing, creating many pieces of clothing for her family and for herself. She was also an amazing cook who loved preparing large meals for her loved ones—gatherings marked by generosity, tradition, and the simple comfort of being together.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G 6W8.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 15347 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1N7. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 8361 Yonge St, Markham, ON L4J 0J7.
