Born in Civita, Italy, to parents Teresa and Michael Amatuzio. Maria immigrated to the United States in 1954 and found her way to Duluth, Minnesota, where she lived a simple life working at many places, but loved her job at St. Mary’s Hospital. After retiring Maria moved to Coon Rapids Minnesota. She was known for her amazing Italian, cooking and crocheting of beautiful blankets and dish towels.
Maria’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Marta Brandt, Joanna Hansen (Patrick), Gabriella Riccio; her grandchildren, Mark, Gena, Ciro, Anthony, and Garrett, and her great grandchildren, Dylan, Allison, Jackson, Miriam, and Sophia; sister, Carmen Franks; Maria is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her two sons, Michael and Anthony.
Her legacy of kindness, strength, and faith will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Family in her honor.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Gearhart Funeral Home - 11275 Foley Blvd. NW., Coon Rapids, MN.
