Obituary

Maria Herminia Ferreira Isabel passed away peacefully on July 15, 2019 after a heroic battle with metastatic brain cancer, at the side of her soulmate and husband of 53 years, Jose (theirs was truly a love story for the ages… one that spanned over seven decades). Beloved mother to Ofelia, Dina and Nelson; adored grandmother to Lucas, Nicolas, Julia, Tomas and Daniel; treasured aunt to dozens of nieces and nephews; and cherished by an extraordinary extended family, Maria joins her mother, Herminia – who she devotedly cared for during her golden years (through to 96 years of age) – and her brothers, Alfredo, Gabriel and Joaquim in the afterlife.   Maria was the ultimate extrovert; always happiest surrounded by loved ones – and she had thousands of these. The front (and side) door to her house was always open, and there was nothing she enjoyed more than feeding and chatting with her guests (of all ages). She had an incredible ability of bringing people together. A talented seamstress and world-class baker, her desire to help and bring joy to others will never be forgotten by those who knew her and will be sorely missed, as will her sense of humour and infectious laugh. Her too-soon departure leaves her family with a giant void, but they are comforted by the fact that she touched and shaped so many lives and was adored by so many. The world is a better place for having had her in it.   In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that donations be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.   The visitation will be at Cardinal Funeral Home at 366 Bathurst Street on Tuesday, July 16, 2019 from 3:00-5:00pm and from 6:00-9:00pm. Her funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Church at 130 Bathurst St. at 9:45am on Wednesday, July 17, 2019.  

“It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember”.

Visitation

Date
July 16, 2019
Location
Cardinal Funeral Home
Time
03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Date
July 16, 2019
Location
Cardinal Funeral Home
Time
06:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Service

Date
July 17, 2019
Location
St. Mary's Parish
Time
09:45 AM

Cremation

Date
 
Location
Private Cremation
Time
 

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July 18, 2019
Paula Oliveira
Ofelia, Dina, Nelson and Jose, Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity to spend some lovely moments with Maria in her final days. I am so honoured to have known Maria and to have been a recipient of her endless kindness and generosity. When I was going through a difficult time with my mom, dad and grandma, she called me everyday to check up on me and each of them. She constantly asked me what she could do to help at a time when she was fighting the fight of her life. Maria has left a legacy like no other and has passed on her beautiful, kind and generous spirit to each of you. Wishing you peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.
July 16, 2019
Cacilda Felizardo
My deepest condolences to the family. You were truly blessed to have her in your lives. Words cannot express my sadness to hear of such news. I last saw Maria last year, at the festa do Carvahal Benfeito, she was wearing an identical dress to the one I had...we laughed because 47 years before, she was the one who made my dress to come to Canada. Also, my mom sends her condolences from Portugal. I regret that I am not able to attend tonight or the service tomorrow but I know she is in a better place. May she rest in peace.
July 16, 2019
Loriann Domingos and Family
My sincere condolences. Although it has been many years since I last saw Sra Maria, many fond memories exist and her warm smile will never be forgotten.
July 16, 2019
Jenny Silva
Please accept out condolences to your family. We have cherished memories of her. She was truly a kind hearted person who always welcomed all into her home.
July 16, 2019
Carla Ferreira Barreto
Dear Family, Our deepest feelings are with you, Idalina, Tó-Zé, Carla, Rosário, Ireneu, Catarina and Margarida
July 16, 2019
Kevin & Susan Aselstine
Ofelia and family So sorry to hear about the passing of your cherished Mom. Sincerest sympathies
July 15, 2019
Samuel, Gina and Matthew Dos Santos
Our deepest condolences. May God be with you all. God rest her soul.
July 15, 2019
Adelaide, Henrique, Chantal & Elita Madeira
My condolences to Sr. Jose and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with during this difficult moment.