Maria Luisa Elda (Ruscitto) Iannantuono

Beloved wife of Mario Iannantuono (predeceased), cherished mother of Franco (Cecilia) and Fabio (predeceased), devoted grandmother of Alexander & Samantha. Sister of Michele (predeceased) and sister-in-law of Anna, aunt to Antonella and Sergio (Sarah predeceased). Great aunt to Gabrael & Megan. Cousin to Pietro, Antonio and Nicola. She will also be deeply missed by her many relatives and friends in Canada, the United States and Italy.

Born and raised in a pastoral setting, in the small village of Petrella Tifernina, Italy, Elda enjoyed spending time in the countryside. She practiced theatre and was often to be found at the village church or walking in the piazza with her many friends. She practiced needlework and crotchet, knitting garments for friends and family. The courage to immigrate came late in life and arriving in Canada in 1964, along with her husband and firstborn, she began building a life in her newly adopted country. Working in the needle-trade industry for many years. Her ambition was to have a home for her family and this was achieved in 1975 after much saving and sacrifice.

Loving nature in all its forms, her passion was tending to her vegetable garden. The rhythm of the seasons and observance of the liturgical calendar gave the home life a sense of structure and security. She was the undisputed matriarch and her whimsical nature tempered by her tenacious spirit carried her into her senior years. She endured several heartaches, having been predeceased by her son, brother and husband but she carried on with a focus on the future caring for her grandchildren as much as possible. Her sudden departure saddens all within her immediate and peripheral circle of family, friends and acquaintances. She will be deeply missed as a force of nature balanced with a compassion for her fellow man.

Un ultimo abbraccio finché non ci rivedremo in paradiso. Resquiescat in pace Mammina

A viewing will be held at Côte-des-Neiges funeral home on Wednesday March 13 from 3pm to 5pm and from 6pm to 9pm, on Thursday March 14 at 9:30am followed by a chapel service at 10am.

In recognition and expression of our gratitude for the care and compassion extended to her by the doctors, nurses, orderlies and staff of both institutions, donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Montreal Heart Institute or the Lakeshore General Hospital.