Bartolomea "Lina" Orlando

Born on May 29, 1938, in Sicily, Italy, Lina was the cherished daughter of the late Giuseppe and Maria Ippolito. She married her beloved husband Antonino Orlando (predeceased in 2008), and they built a beautiful life, raising a close-knit and loving family. Together they immigrated to Canada, embracing a new life filled with opportunity, community and love.

Lina was a devoted mother to the late Antonino Orlando (Emily), Giuseppe Orlando (Karen), and Rosana Grace (Allan). She was the proud and cherished Nonna of Nicole (Francisco Contreras), Maria, Serena, Tristan, Monica, David, Olivia, and Matteo, and the joyful Bisnonna of Miguel and Elias.

A gifted seamstress, Lina found joy in creating with her hands—crocheting, knitting, and sewing with remarkable skill. Her garden flourished under her care, and her home was always filled with the comforting aromas of home-cooked meals and freshly baked treats. She found deep joy in cooking for her family, bringing everyone together around the table. In her final weeks, she was even able to fulfil this passion again at her home in Riverside Glen through a cooking competition, that earned her 2nd place. We are grateful for the wonderful community the staff created there for her in her recent years.

Lina was known for her sharp wit and playful sense of humour. A fierce card player, she especially loved Scopa and Briscola, and delighted in teasing and joking with her grandchildren. Her presence (and cooking) was a source of strength, warmth, and laughter to all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph, on Wednesday, August 27, from 2–4 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Church, 175 Emma Street, Guelph, on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with entombment to follow at Our Lady Immaculate Mausoleum, Marymount Cemetery, 5400 Hwy 6, Guelph.

In honour of Lina’s generous spirit, donations may be made to the St. Camillus Angels' Village Foundation on behalf of Father Giovanni Contarin, Director of the Camillian Centre of Thailand. Donation cards will be available at the funeral home, or contributions may be made by e-transfer to [email protected].

Lina’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.