It is with heavy hearts and great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and Nonna on Thursday April 8, 2021, with her family by her side, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Lena was born April 1, 1947 in Aprigliano, Cosenza Italy. Shortly after she immigrated to Canada, Lena met and married the love of her life Giacomo in 1963 and together they had three children: Marylou, Tony and John. When Giacomo passed away in 1979 at the young age of 38, Lena was left to raise 3 young children on her own. Through her grief, she embraced the role of both mother and father. She did everything for her children, teaching them the value of hard work and the importance of family. They will forever be indebted to her for her lessons and love.
Lena worked as a seamstress at Supreme Cleaners up until her retirement. She had a natural talent and always went above and beyond with her work. When Lena wasn’t at work or with her family, you could find her gardening, helping her friends or being the life of the party at social gatherings. Lena spent many hours volunteering for both St Dominic’s and St Anthony’s RC church, The Italian Cultural Centre and TBRHSC. Lena had many special long-time friends that she cherished dearly, and we thank them for all their love and support.
Anyone who knew Lena knew that her pride and joy were her grandchildren: Kevin Roberts, Kayla Guitard (Jared), Kody Roberts, Kaitlyn Gazzola (Cody Lamore), Jordan Gazzola, Jacob Gazzola and Patric Gazzola. Whether it was teaching how to knit, make gnocchi, taking them to the movies, mini putting, or for ice cream she always enjoyed every moment spent with them. She would even cook their favorite meal on request and sew elaborate costumes for every recital or production – no task was too big. She celebrated all the milestones and achievements with her grandchildren and they will always remember the lessons and love they received from Nonna.
She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her daughter Marylou Roberts (Stewart) , son Tony Gazzola (Maria), daughter-in-law Melanie Gazzola, her grandchildren, nieces and nephews and many friends.
Lena was predeceased by her husband Giacomo, her son John Gazzola in 2017 at the young age of 48, her parents Raphael and Virginia, brothers Salvatore and Leonardo, sisters Rita Lavia, Sissina, Iola Gazzola and Gina.
The family would like to thank the staff of both the TBRHSC 1A and St. Joseph’s Care Group Hospice Unit for the compassionate care and support.
Funeral Services for Lena will be held privately for family on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at St. Anthony's Church where the funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr. Luigi Filippini at 11:00 a.m.
Visitation for family & friends will be held in the chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre on Monday, April 12, 2021 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with vigil prayers at 7:00 p.m.
Due to current gathering restrictions, space is limited. Please call the funeral home at 346-9880 to reserve a time to visit.
For those unable to attend in person, both the vigil prayers and funeral service will be streamed live at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca
Wearing of masks or face coverings by everyone and maintaining social distancing of 6 feet is mandatory for those attending the services.
If friends desire, memorial Contributions may be made to The Northern Cancer Fund or St. Anthony's Church in lieu of flowers.
