Magistrale Rosa (nee Balenzano) was born on June 24, 1924, in Sannicandro, Bari, Italy, and peacefully passed away on July 31, 2021, in Vancouver, BC. at the age of 97; predeceased by her husband Filippo of 59 years in 2004.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Maria, Giacoma (Giovanni), Nicola (Adriana), Gennaro (Crystal), 9 grandchildren, 10 great- grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and relatives in Canada, the US, and Italy.
Our mother was the rock and the guiding light of our family, who was driven by her strong faith to God and the church. She was the one who made important decisions, such as moving the whole family to Vancouver from Italy in 1963, despite that we children and Dad were very hesitant of the move, and also buying our first house, just after 2 years in Vancouver. She would always assure us that the Lord would look after us, and she was always right.
She was a hard worker and enjoyed being a seamstress both in Italy and in Vancouver. She would make clothes for us and was able to make her own patterns and designs. However, her greatest joy was to be surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great -grandchildren on special occasions.
We would like to thank the staff at Villa Carital, for all of their help, and exceptional care of our mother.
There will be a viewing at Kearney Funeral Chapel, 4715 Hastings St. Burnaby, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, Aug. 12th.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Aug. 13th, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 2025 Napier St., Vancouver, BC, Fr. Gino celebrant. Interment to follow at Ocean View Cemetery, 3883 Rumble St. Burnaby, BC.
Donations will be accepted to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in the name of Rosa Magistrale.