With heavy hearts, we announce that Rosa Zonta peacefully passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, reaching a beautiful age of 91.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 67 years, Paolo; children Lou (Erin), Robert, and Ivana; grandchildren John Paul, Alessandra, Daniella, Patrick, and Jaden; Elco (father to Daniella and Jaden) and numerous other family members and friends. Predeceased by her sisters (Romana and Maria) and brother (Giuseppe).
Rosa was born in Cassola (Veneto, Italy) on February 15, 1932. She followed her husband to Canada in 1956, to start a family with the man she loved and in hopes of creating a bright future together. Her joy for travel was obvious as the family went back to Italy regularly and eventually expanded to places such as France, Netherlands, Australia, Hawaii, California, Mexico, and Alaska.
Rosa loved having fun and being happy. There was always a big smile and excitement when the grandchildren came to visit. She had a great sense of humor and was not shy to share her joking ways, smiles, and laughter with everyone in the room. At the many Italian banquets and Weddings, she attended, you would see Rosa dancing the Waltz with her husband. During quiet times, she enjoyed watching her favorite shows, painting, sewing or simply spoiling us with her Italian baking.
Rosa’s passion was her home, creating a warm and welcoming place for family and friends to gather all year round. She loved her vegetable garden and was always proud to show everyone her vast array of colorful flowers and plants that always seemed to bloom!
Rosa was very grateful for her life in Canada and when faced with challenging times, her unwavering devotion to the Catholic faith is what illustrated her strength and character. Her determination and ‘Will to Live’ never went unnoticed.
As Rosa’s health began to decline, we cannot say enough about the amazing support she received by all involved over the years. We achieved the goal of giving her the best life possible. The beauty of living a long life is a blessing that gives us the opportunity to develop a stronger bond that goes beyond being recognized as a parent but treasured as a best friend as well. With that said, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the medical teams at Burnaby General Hospital, the Palliative Care Staff, BC Cancer Agency, and Crossroads Hospice for all their dedication, respect, and incredible care that was given to Rosa and family.
A viewing will be held at Kearney Burnaby Chapel, 4715 Hastings Street, Burnaby, on Monday, February 5, 2024, between 6:00 - 8:00 pm.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Helen’s Parish, 3860 Triumph Street, Burnaby, on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at 11:00 am.
Entombment to follow at Ocean View Cemetery, 3883 Rumble Street, Burnaby.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the BC Cancer Society.
As love never ends, you will truly be missed and remain in our hearts forever.