Francesca Porro

Francesca Porro (née Barbieri), the cherished matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at the age of 101. She was the beloved wife of the late Dario Porro; devoted mother of Maria (Mario) and George (Margo); adored Nonna of Lissa, Derek, Chris (Holli), Natalia, and Darion; and a treasured Zia. The eldest of seven children, she is survived by her youngest brother, Giovanni.

Born in the mountain village of San Sostene, Calabria, Italy, Francesca came from humble beginnings. In her 20s, she bravely immigrated to Canada to build a better future. Here, she met and married Dario, a fellow Italian who shared her heritage and values. Together, they built a beautiful life.

Francesca lived a simple life rooted in deep faith, hard work, and unconditional love. She was a devoted member of her church community. Her work ethic was impressive, and she willingly sacrificed her own comforts to create opportunities for her children. Her home was a haven for family and friends, where the door was always open and all were welcomed.

An avid gardener, she spent decades cultivating a bounty of vegetables and figs. While her garden reflected her nurturing spirit, her kitchen was the heart of her home; family and friends routinely gathered around her table for legendary Sunday dinners, with homemade tomato sauce, Parmigiana di Melanzane and other delights. Francesca leaves behind a timeless legacy of strength and devotion.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the team at New Vista Society for providing Francesca with a loving home and exceptional care over the last six years.

A funeral mass will be held on October 7 at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church (555 Slocan Street, Vancouver), followed by reception at the church, then entombment at the mausoleum at Ocean View Burial Park (4000 Imperial St., Vancouver). In lieu of flowers, donations made in Francesca's memory to the New Vista Society (newvista.bc.ca/donate) would be deeply appreciated.

Her hands were rarely still, her heart was always open, and her memory will live on in our hearts, gardens, and kitchens forever.