Obituary of MARIA ANTONIETTA BRACCIO

MARIA ANTONIETTA BRACCIO

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Maria Antonietta (Campanaro) Braccio on December 11, 2017 at home, with family by her side in Winnipeg, Manitoba at 78 years of age.

Maria was born on April 6, 1939 in Campochiaro, Campobasso, Italy. She was predeceased by her mother Filomena, father Liberato, husband Silvio, brother Nicola, sister Adelina, and granddaughter Crystal Lynn. She is survived by her son Antonio (Lynda), daughter Sandra, and grandchildren Antonio (Brianne), Matthew, Jennifer, and Kristina as well as great-grandson, Silvio Jackson. Also left to mourn Maria’s loss is her sister Lucia, brother Luigi (Erika) and numerous relatives both in Canada and Italy.

Mom came to Canada in 1961, shortly after her and pop were married in Italy on December 10, 1960. They returned to Winnipeg where Pop had been living and working prior to marriage. Mom worked piece work as a factory sewing machine operator for many years at various sewing factories in the city including Richlu Sportswear and Pem Brand. When she wasn’t working, mom enjoyed spending time cooking, baking, gardening, and crocheting. We all looked forward to Sunday lunches where she would show case her garden-fresh pasta sauce and homemade pastas like spaghetti, cavatelli, and gnocchi. Mom made enough food to feed our family and then some, often sending leftovers home with extended family and guests. She and pop were known for feeding the homeless in their centennial neighbourhood that they called home for 60 years. Mom’s greatest joy were her children, grandchildren and most recently, her great-grandson. She always sacrificed her needs for those of her family never once asking for anything in return. Mom was a woman of great strength and a loving and caring soul. She was our rock and she took care of us like no other, always making us feel safe and loved.

Mom, although we wanted you to stay longer, we knew we could not ask that from you. You have lived your entire life with strength and resilience. You approached these last few months with grace and poise, selflessly for everyone. Our hearts and spirits are heavy, we miss you already, “repose in pace.”

Prayers will be held on Monday, December 18, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel 1442, Main Street. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 19 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church, 510 River Avenue. Reception to follow. Entombment will be at Queen of Heaven Mausoleum, Assumption Cemetery, 3990 Portage Avenue West.