Mrs. Maria Sandu

Obituary

With immense love and heavy hearts, we honour and celebrate the life of Marioara Sandu.

The Visitation will be held on Wednesday July 2, 2025, from 9:00AM to 11:00AM at Cardinal Funeral Homes, 92 Annette St., Toronto. Religious Services will follow 11:00AM to 12:00PM also at Cardinal Funeral Homes, 92 Annette St., Toronto. Burial will take place after at Prospect Cemetery, 1450 St. Clair Ave. W., Toronto.

Marioara passed away on June 26, 2025, at Bridgepoint Hospital, overlooking her favourite Toronto skyline. At the age of 85 years old, Marioara lived a full and incredible life. Born in Romania, she immigrated to Canada in 1976 and shortly after opened a store, named REG, in the bustling Kensington Market, selling dry goods, spices, and Eastern European treats for over 40 years. Marioara, also affectionately known as Mary and mama, had a larger-than-life personality. She was tenacious; a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur that worked way past retirement because she loved what she did. Her wit charmed her many loyal customers across the city. She was able to have conversations with anyone, unafraid to ask questions and listen. Her constant presence and sweetness earned her the title of “mother of the market” by the Kensington community.

Marioara was a dedicated wife and mother. She was married for 68 years with Alexandru Sandu, whom she fell in love with ever since she caught him trying to steal grapes from her family’s farm when they were teenagers. Marioara cared for and adored him, fiercely until the end. Her daughters, Magdalena and Daniela, were her greatest treasures and she cherished them deeply. Her hard work was all for them to have the opportunities she didn’t have, and she felt great satisfaction and pride to see them advance their education. Marioara was a proud and loving grandmother (buni) to five grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Spending time with her family gave Marioara much joy and she will be sincerely missed. We will always remember her laughter, dancing, authenticity, caring and mighty spirit.

She is survived by her beloved husband Alexandru, children Magdalena (Laurentiu) and Daniela (Pablo), grandchildren Madelaine, Alexander, Sebastian, Michael, Julia, and great granddaughter, Amelia.

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