Teresa Centola

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mother and Nonna, Teresa Centola born February 10, 1939 in Tricarico, Italy, passed away January 29, 2026 in Delta, British Columbia. Teresa was predeceased by her parents Giovanni and Domenica Lacovara, her husband Nunzio, she is survived by her children Rocky (Koren), Phyllis, John (Francesca) and Dominic, her grandchildren Mary (Joe), Nina, Bianca, Maria, Carla, Michael (Dimitra), Aria, Ella, Luca, Micah, Vilah, great grandson Fred and another great grandchild on the way, many other family and friends.

Teresa and her husband, Nunzio, left Italy and began a new chapter in Canada in 1962, arriving with their young son, Rocco, and a deep determination to build a better life. Through years of hard work and perseverance, they purchased their first home on 4th Avenue in East Vancouver — a place filled with the warmth of family, food, and the traditions they carried with them.

After sixteen years, they moved to North Burnaby, where they found themselves embraced by a close-knit community of Italians and other families who quickly became lifelong friends. Teresa remained in this home for forty-six years. Within those walls, she and Nunzio helped raise six of their grandchildren, offering them love, guidance, and the comfort of a home where they were always welcomed and cherished. Those formative years spent with their grandparents became a gift the family continues to treasure.

Teresa loved cooking and bread making. She took great pride in preparing meals for her family, and no one ever left her home hungry or empty-handed. Some of her favorite dishes to make were her pasta, cabbage rolls, potato salad and focaccia — recipes she brought with her from Italy and perfected over a lifetime of care and tradition. Her cooking, always made with love and offered generously, will be deeply missed.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of 3 North and 5 South at Royal Columbian Hospital, as well as the Irene Thomas Hospice. Their kindness, compassion, and gentle care brought comfort during an incredibly difficult time, and the family is deeply grateful for the support shown to Teresa and to the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, BC Cancer or a charity of your choice, in Teresa’s name would be sincerely appreciated.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00PM, Friday, February 6, 2026 at Holy Cross Parish, 1450 Delta Ave. Burnaby, British Columbia, entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 3789 Royal Oak Ave. Burnaby, British Columbia.