Maria Cardellini

February 28, 1924 – December 5, 2017

Maria Cardellini passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 5th, 2017 at the age of 93. Maria was born on February 28, 1924 near Antrodoco, Rieti, Italy. She has gone to join her beloved husband of 64 years, Quinto; her brothers Pasquale, Francesco, and Abramo; and her sisters Teresa, Rosaria, and twin sister Angelina. Maria is lovingly remembered by her three children, Phyllis (Paul) Runnett, Tino (Rosa) Cardellini, and Elena (Chris) Francis; six grandchildren, Danny (Catheryn), Ryan (Melissa), Nicole (Doug), Rick (Corey), Vince (Suzy), and Andy; and several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews in both Italy and Canada.

Maria and Quinto used to tease and throw rocks at each other as children. Maria came to Canada in 1950 to marry that flirtatious neighbour. They lived in Bridgeland and Renfrew for many years. Maria was unsure about moving to the farm. She asked her aunties from BC to come and save her. Her aunties visited and quickly reassured her it was a beautiful place to live and raise their family. Maria settled in and enjoyed her large Italian garden, bunnies, and chickens. She was a hard-worker, supporting Quinto in all his endeavours, as well as operating her own successful chicken farming business.

Maria loved to entertain and cook for family and friends. There were many large extended family dinners, bocce tournaments, and special picnics. Many hours were spent making antipasto, tomato sauce, peach preserves, pickles, applesauce, ... She loved to plant and pick flowers, gather fresh dandelions, scout for mushrooms, and was always looking for new recipes to try. Maria loved being a Nonna and Bisnonna. She was quick to offer babysitting and always had hugs, kisses, and treats for the kids.

Quinto and Maria sold the farm so they could travel and moved to Mayland Heights. They got away for several trips and returned to Italy to visit family. They were active members of the Italian Club, Italian Church social club, and Renfrew Pool. They participated in aquacise, bowling, bocce, bingo, dancing, and playing scopa. Maria also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and crafts. She loved to sing because that's what she and her sisters use to do to entertain themselves. She missed her sisters and spoke of them often.

They sold their home in Mayland heights in 2007 and moved into Aspen Lodge. They made many new friends and continued to enjoy their activities together. Heartbreakingly, Maria had to move again as she required more care, but she never lost her spirit or love. She continued to sing, joke, and wiggle that dancing butt to the end. Maria taught us the value of hard work, to be brave, stay strong, laugh often, and cherish family. May she rest in peace.

There will be Prayers, Tributes, and Visitation on Tuesday, December 12th, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. and a Funeral Service on Wednesday, December 13th, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery). An Entombment will follow at Queen's Park Cemetery Mausoleum. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society of Calgary, www.alzheimercalgary.ca (403-290-0110).