Luciana Pellizzoni

Beloved mother of Jennifer and the late Sabrina. Dearly loved mother-in-law of Mike and Peter. Adored Nonna of Michael and Chelsea. Dear sister of Valeria, predeceased by brothers Attilio, Erminio and Battista Boem. Loved sister-in-law of dearly departed Maria, Olga (Alfredo), Dina (Gio Batta), Rina (Lino, Alfredo), Silvana (Livio), Carla (Ivan) and Licia (Mario). Loved Zia of many nieces, nephews and their families. Now reunited with her husband Ernesto.

Born in Goricizza, Italy, Luciana came to Canada in 1967, settling in Hamilton and marrying Ernesto in 1968. Their life together was a happy one, and they built a cozy home where everyone was welcome. Friends and family were always around, and it was a life where everyday moments felt just as special as the bigger occasions. Around her kitchen table most often were her dearly loved sisters-in-law Rina, Carla, Dina and their families. My mom returned to Italy frequently, often bringing Sabrina and myself in the summer to spend time with her family and mother Palmira, whom she adored.

Luciana loved her role of Nonna more than anything. Michael and Chelsea were her pride & joy, and she played a big role in helping them grow into the wonderful young adults they are today. She became a proud Canadian with strong ties to her Friulan heritage. Her love language was cooking, her favourite colour was yellow and she had a smile that could light up a room. Other favourites include trips to Las Vegas, finding just the right slot machine at the casino, cats, a full fridge, good perfume and shopping at Sears. Beautiful flowers always brought a smile to her face, and she had a fantastic vegetable garden. She was generous and sincere with her compliments, even with strangers. A modern thinker and intelligent woman, she was loved by people of all ages.

Luciana was gentle with a positive outlook and a great sense of humour. She was my compass, my north star. My mom taught me the importance of nurturing friendships, to work hard and never underestimate my worth. Her strength of character and strong faith came through during her 3 cancer battles, in the selfless way she cared for my dad before he passed away in 2008 and in how hard she fought to find joy again after losing Sabrina to cancer in 2022.

Special love and thank you to her dear neighbours and lifelong friends for always looking out for her. Thank you to Dr. Brush, PSWs Michelle and Tami Jo, nurses Anna and Dolly – your support allowed us to care for Luciana at home for as long as possible. Heartfelt gratitude to the team at Ian Anderson House – your compassionate care gave her the peace in her final days that she so richly deserved.

Rest easy Mom – you’ve left a legacy of love and goodness. You are woven into our past and our future. God bless you. “Tu vales un milion”.

Visitation at MARKEY-DERMODY FUNERAL HOME, 1774 King Street East, on Wednesday, January 10 from 4-8 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 165 Prospect Street North on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 11 am. Entombment Our Lady of Victory Mausoleum, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. A Celebration of Life to take place at a later date.

If desired, donations in Luciana’s name can be made to Ian Anderson House hospice.