Esterina Colaguori

Peacefully on May 3rd, 2026 at the age of 99, Esterina was called to Heaven to be reunited with her beloved husband Fausto. She will be dearly missed by her loving six children John (Manuela), Olimpia (John Anderson), Teresa (David Farrell), William, Elfio (Linda), and Claudio. Proud grandmother of Stefania (Francesco), Mark, Analise (Clement), Laura (Jonathan), Katy (Cory), Michael (Jess), Robert (Alex), and Carla-Grace (Diego). Esterina will be the guardian angel to her great-grandchildren Aldo John, Carmine, Maxim, Thomas, Graziella, and James.

Esterina was an extraordinary woman whose life was guided by deeply rooted Christian values of love, compassion, forgiveness, and generosity. Her faith was the foundation of who she was, shaping her actions and the way she cared for others each day. In times of hardship, she found strength in the simple yet powerful belief that “God will provide,” a phrase that sustained her throughout her life.

Some of Esterina’s happiest moments were spent in prayer and in lovingly tending the grounds of the Shrine of Gratitude at the former St. Basil School, a place that held deep spiritual meaning for her. Its closure and dismantling marked one of her saddest days, as it represented not only a physical space but a cherished part of her faith journey and community.

Esterina was a quick study from an early age, often chosen by her teachers to demonstrate her skills to visiting inspectors—a reflection of both her intelligence and dedication. Despite the profound loss of her mother at the age of 11, she developed remarkable independence, learning to sew, crochet, cook, and bake with care and determination. When the war forced her to leave school at just 12 years old, Esterina adapted with strength and resilience, working alongside her father to cultivate and tend the family’s land. These early experiences shaped her strong work ethic and enduring sense of responsibility.

Above all, Esterina’s greatest love was her family. Each new birth was a precious gift, and every child brought her the joy of sharing songs from her homeland, keeping her heritage alive through music and tradition. Preparing for family gatherings was one of her greatest pleasures, and these moments became the highlight of every holiday. Through her love, care, and devotion, she created lasting memories that will be cherished by generations.

Friends and relatives will be received at DELMORO FUNERAL HOME, 61 Beverly Hills Dr., (1 light south of Wilson Ave., west of Jane St. 416-249-4499) on Thursday May 7th, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am on Friday, May 8th, 2026 at ST. JUDE’S PARISH (3265 Weston Rd., south of Finch Ave.). A Private Committal Prayer and Entombment will be held for the immediate family at QUEEN OF HEAVEN CATHOLIC CEMETERY 7300 Hwy #27 (south of Hwy #7). Donations in memory of Esterina may be made to the Hospice (Cortellucci) Vaughan Foundation, by clicking the link on this webpage