Maria Petru

Maria was born October 1, 1939 in Chelmac, Arad, Romania to Ion and Vioara Balan. She had 1 older sister, Anuta. She was only 4 years old when her father was called to join the military to fight in World War II, never to return. She was raised by her mother and grandparents. Her grandfather, Pepe, was like a father figure while growing up. She attended a boarding school until she got married.

At the age of 17, she married Valean Petru in February of 1956. She was married for 61 years until his passing on November 2nd 2017.

Although she was blessed with children early in her marriage, Maria still managed to go back to school and received her certification in patient care technician. She worked at a local pediatric hospital for many years with handicapped children. She really loved what she did, she even took her children to the hospital to which inspired a few of them to go into the medical field.

Until Maria’s car accident that claimed her legs in December 2013, she loved being active. She loved her vegetable and flower gardens. It was her pride and joy. She made amazing pickled items that her children and grandchildren enjoyed. After the accident, she took up full time crocheting and knitting. Not only did she create sweaters and blankets, but she learned to make small knitted dolls, toys, and even Christmas ornaments with fine detail. She gifted these to all her grandkids, great grand kids, and children of the church family. She loved making little hats for preemie babies at nearby hospitals. Her hands were rarely still. During this period, she also discovered and fully embraced Facebook and Messenger. It helped her keep in touch with all her loved ones. Those were rough days when the internet was down.

Her life was a living example of her faith in God. She loved to sing with groups and even solos. She had a beautiful voice. She would even hum while doing her daily chores. Over the years, she encouraged her daughters to join her. Maria was also a prayer warrior. Often, we could hear her praying for us by name. The list got longer over the years with the addition of grandkids and great grandkids. As her children, we knew that we could go to her and she would pray for you. Church was important to her. She taught us the importance of going to church and never missing a service. She kept her faith in spite of all her trials and tribulations. Maria in the last few weeks of her life, was at peace and ready to go see Jesus.

Maria is survived by her children: Lidia Ursu, Estera Petru, Eugenia Ardelean, Rodica Miter, Daniel Petru, Emily Ayton, Samuel Petru, and Claudia Salanta. She left behind 23 grand children and 22 great grandchildren. All of whom love her dearly and will never forget her courage and undying love for her family.

Maria's family will receive relatives and friends at Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, 1001 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener, (519-743-8900), on Wednesday, November 23, 2022, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m., where the funeral service will be held in the chapel at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow in Woodland Cemetery. Online condolences at www.westmountfuneralchapel.com