Grace Anne Maskell

Born on April 20, 1953, in Fort Erie, Ontario, Grace was the beloved daughter of the late Frank (2018) and Lucy (1980) Durante. Grace’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her beloved children Scott (Diana) Maskell, Shannon (Ryan) DuBois, Sean Maskell, each of whom she loved unconditionally. Her legacy will live on through her five cherished grandchildren: Audrey and James Maskell, and Cole, Ethan, and Andrew DuBois, who brought her immeasurable happiness and affectionately called her “Gigi”.

She will be deeply missed by her beloved Durante family, especially her siblings Maria (Jim) Knowles, Gloria (Tim) Lagace, Frank (Annette) Durante, and Bonnie (the late Don) Dickson, who were always by her side. She also cared deeply for her in-laws, the late Ernie (2015) and Audrey (2016) Maskell, parents of Brian, the father of her children. Grace's kindness toward Ernie and Audrey was greatly appreciated by their daughters and families, Sharon (Bud) Taylor and Marilyn (George) Fox. Grace also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, with whom she shared treasured memories.

A devoted reflection of her upbringing, Grace lived a life grounded in faith, family, and service, carrying forward the beautiful example set by her parents. After graduating from Fort Erie Secondary School and McMaster University, she dedicated many years to teaching, a profession she loved. She worked at Our Lady of Victory School and later served as the director of the Fort Erie Co-Operative Preschool. Affectionately known as "Miss Grace" by her students and their families, she played an important role in nurturing a love of learning in her youngest students. Grace was more than an educator — she was a mentor, a guiding light, and a source of encouragement whose patience, wisdom, and compassion left a lasting impact on the lives she touched.

In addition to her roles as a teacher and mother, Grace was a proud and active member of several community boards of directors and fundraising committees, including the Fort Erie Tennis Club, where she volunteered her time for many years. In 2002, she was the recipient of Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee Medal, which was awarded to Canadians who made significant contributions to their communities.

Grace had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved, and she carried that gift into every aspect of her life. She took great joy in opening her home and her heart to family and friends throughout the years. Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, the love she shared and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, former students, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the late Dr. David Henry (2025), Dr. Scher, and the staff of The Willows and Gilmore Lodge for the compassion, kindness, and care they provided to Grace over the years.

Visitors may gather at Benner Funeral Services - 1105 Benner Avenue, Fort Erie, Ontario on Monday, May 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church - 310 Central Avenue, Fort Erie, Ontario on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 12:00 pm.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education (The Frank J. Durante Bursary) or to a charity of one’s choice.