Maria Elizabeth Giugovaz

July 8, 1931 - November 8, 2025

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Maria Giugovaz,affectionately known to all as Nonna, who passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on July 8,1931, in Castelvenere, di Pirano Italy, Maria lived a long and remarkable 94 years filled with love, faith, and family.

Maria married the love of her life, Silvano Giugovaz, on May 15, 1955. Together with their first child, Maria-Rosa, they immigrated to Canada on March 21,1957 to begin a new life built on hard work, hope, and love. They later welcomed four more children - Sterina,John, Frank(Tracey), and Linda (Howard).

Maria was predeceased by her beloved husband, Silvano, on July 24, 1970. Though faced with great loss, she devoted her life to her children, family and parish with unwavering strength and grace.

She was the proud matriarch of a large and loving family- blessed with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren - each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Maria was known for her warm hospitality and her gift for bringing people together. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, always filled with the aroma of her delicious cooking and the laughter of family. She took great joy in sharing traditions and recipes, ensuring they would live on through generations.

An active and social spirit, Maria loved her daily walks through the neighborhood, where she greeted everyone with kindness and a smile. She tended her yard, garden and home with great pride - no visit was complete without her famous "grand tour" of the the flowers and plants she lovingly cared for.

Her happiest moments were simple yet profound - gathered with her family over espresso, tea and snacks by the fire, listening to the chatter and laughter of those she loved most.

A woman of deep faith, Maria volunteered for many years at St. Cecelia's Parish, always ready to lend a hand and share her generous heart.

Nonna's legacy of love, faith and family will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation will be held on Sunday November 16, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at South Calgary Funeral Centre and Crematorium, 12700 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary

Funeral Mass will take place at St. Cecelia's Parish, 321 90th Ave SE Calgary, on Monday November 17th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m

Burial will follow at St Mary's Cemetery, 3157 Erlton Street SW, Calgary

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you please make a donation to a charity of your choice in Maria's memory.

The family would like to extend heart felt thanks to the Emergency Response team and the entire staff at the Foothills Hospital Unit #47 for their compassion, professionalism and support through this difficult time.