It is with gratitude and love for a life well lived that the family of Maria Bernardi (née Compostella) announces her peaceful passing surrounded by her loving family on August 24, 2026. Maria in her 97th year is now reunited with her beloved husband, Valentino who pre-deceased her in 1994.
Born in San Martino di Lupari, Padua, Italy, Maria carried the rich traditions, resilience, and warmth of her heritage when she immigrated to Canada alongside her beloved husband, Valentino. A woman of deep and enduring faith, she lived by example and successfully instilled a strong, unwavering work ethic in her children. Together with her family, Bernardi Pre-Cast was founded, a family business that grew into a true Guelph landmark on Elizabeth Street. Maria was the proud matriarch of her family, pouring her heart into creating a home filled with love. Her incredible legacy of faith, hard work and devotion will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her.
Maria was the beloved wife of the late Valentino. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law Giuseppe, sister-in-law Antoinetta and siblings Arturo, Gagliano, Guido, Olga and Lina. She was the cherished and devoted mother of: Joseph and his wife Nancy; Peter and his wife Elena and Paul. She was the proud and loving Nonna of: Sara Gage (Josh), Valentino (Gina), Jon-Paul (Lauren), Valentina (Vu), Joseph (Laura) and Anna-Lisa. She was the treasured Bisnonna of Luca Gage and Mary Bernardi. She is also survived by extended family members and friends both in Canada and Italy.
Full of years, wisdom, and selfless love, our dear Mother has entered her heavenly rest. For decades, she poured herself out for her family, never tiring of doing good. We take deep comfort knowing she is finally resting from her labours, hearing the gentle words, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.' (Matthew 25:21) Riposa in pace, Mamma e Nonna. Il tuo amore ci guiderà sempre.
Special thanks to Maria’s caregiver Dani for her caring service through the years.
Resting at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph, where the family will receive friends on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 4-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place at Holy Rosary Church 175 Emma St. Guelph, on Saturday, August 29th, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. A livestream link is available by visiting Maria's webpage on the funeral home website. Entombment, Our Lady Immaculate Mausoleum, Marymount Cemetery, Guelph.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Holy Rosary Church or Guelph General Hospital would be appreciated by the family. Donation cards are available at the funeral home 519-821-5077 or send condolences at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com
