Mrs. Marcella Gallina

Marcellina, known fondly as Marcella, was born December 29, 1925, in Coste di Maser, Treviso, Italy to parents Alphonso and Candida Bordin. She was the second oldest of 3 daughters and 4 sons.

In June 1952, Marcella immigrated to Canada aboard the ship "Conte Biancamano" leaving Genova to Halifax. She came to Canada to marry her fiancé, Giuseppi Gallina (predeceased in 1991) who travelled to Canada before her to secure a job. Together they built a home in New Westminster raising 3 children: Regina, Rick (predeceased in 1983), and Giani. Marcella was a talented baker, who later baked with Mrs Willman's bakery and in the Woodwards bakery.

Marcella loved knitting and crocheting (specifically slippers, hand towels, and blankets), tending to her garden and fig trees, as well as spending afternoons playing bingo at Century House. She had a talent for finding a good bargain while shopping $1.49 days. She took great pride in sharing treasured family recipes with her granddaughter, keeping family traditions alive through cooking. Marcella also enjoyed watching Jerry Lewis movies and I Love Lucy, which never failed to make her laugh. She carried a deep and unwavering faith in the Catholic Church throughout her life. Her warmth, traditions, humour, and devotion to family will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Marcella also loved to travel and cherished the many adventures she experienced over the years, including trips to Mexico and Cuba and later in life, a memorable five-country European journey with her daughter, son, and granddaughter. This trip was filled with laughter, sightseeing, family memories, and reconnecting with her Italian roots.

Marcella leaves behind her loving children Regina (Neil) McNabb and Giani Gallina; and cherished grandchildren Julia and Kevin (Jaimee). Through Kevin, she had 3 great-grandchildren Logan, and twins Tucker and Ryann. Through Julia, she had a great-grandchild who was named after her, Luca Marcello. She is also survived by her sister Virginia, her brother Attilio, and many nieces and nephews in both Canada and Italy.

Marcella’s life spanned a century filled with tremendous change, sacrifice, devotion, and love. She will be remembered for her strength, her devotion to family, her quick wit, and the pride she carried for her culture and traditions.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Normanna Care Home for the care, kindness, and support they provided to Marcella throughout her time there.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Normanna Care Home in Marcella’s memory.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on May 27th 2026, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church (7455 10th Ave, Burnaby, BC V3M 3H7), reception immediately follows.